Interview 2024: Exclusive designs, fascinating stories, stylish atmosphere
Those who value exclusive, tasteful and aesthetic products will find what they are looking for at the Eterna Concept Store at Spittelstrasse 4 in Stäfa.
The store presents a selection of stylish furniture from young designers, finely crafted cushions and throws, as well as high-quality items such as Arabic perfumes, scented candles, and exquisite delicacies.
Last but not least, flowers give the rooms a special atmosphere.
The Eterna Concept Store has only recently opened at Spittelstrasse 4 in Stäfa. The entrance is a bit hidden, but as you approach, it's clear: This is the home of someone who knows a thing or two about style, exclusivity, and a charming atmosphere.
Flickering candles guide the way, and upon entering the concept store, you're transported to a specially designed exhibition of beautiful objects. The rooms in the listed building radiate warmth, and owner Anja Hammami welcomes you warmly, yet with a pleasantly reserved air.
"We only moved here this year from Männedorf. I ran a specialty flower shop on Seestrasse. As space became increasingly limited, we looked around and found this beautiful building, where I immediately felt at home," says Anja Hammami happily. Here, she can stylishly present all the 300 products she already has in her range.
"Everything fits together. My business is my passion." She works with many young designers and small businesses. They visit her in her shop, but the owner also visits the retailers and inspects the production facilities on site.
Exclusive designs
The sofas on display in the various rooms are elegant, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable. Anja Hammami explains that she collaborates with several young designers. One, for example, was designed by a young Japanese furniture designer.
"Thanks to the constant flow of new ideas, we stay on trend," says the owner happily. She has also designed six chairs herself. Sustainability is an important issue for the owner. She selects each of the beautiful items individually. And behind each product lies a fascinating story that she knows.
"You won't find anything 'Made in China' here; instead, everything is manufactured in Romania, Slovakia, Portugal, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Morocco, the Netherlands, Italy, or Estonia. And many of the flowers I use to create floral artworks come from Switzerland."
Anja Hammami is always on the lookout for items that can't be found anywhere else. "Our offerings should always be attractive and exceptional."
Like the honey, which she shows off with great enthusiasm. It has a creamy texture and tastes like white chocolate. Its unique packaging also makes it a high-quality gift.
"The characteristic wooden caps are handcrafted by a small carpentry workshop and coated with two layers of wood wax to make them more durable. The wooden caps contain a metal lid so the honey doesn't come into direct contact with the wood. Two varieties of this honey have even received awards," explains Anja Hammami.
Also very special are the Arabic perfumes with their evocative names like "Silky Saffron" or "Shahama." Eleven different fragrances are available.
The owner adds: "We offer eau de parfum for both women and men." This product also impresses with its beautiful packaging. The caps are designed as onion domes, and the packaging box contains information about the perfume's composition.
The cozy throws and unique pillows come from Sweden. These are produced by a couple, and each of these products tells a fascinating story.
Floral arrangements
Anja Hammami is a trained florist with a Federal VET diploma. "I worked in flower purchasing for a long time. It was an exciting time. You'd get up at 3 a.m. and visit the flower market. But creativity was neglected."
She's actually from St. Gallen, but "love brought me here," she laughs. The florist works with seasonal and fresh flowers. Her floral arrangements can be seen at events and weddings, as well as in corporate settings and reception areas.
She uses artificial flowers for boutique windows, so you can display them in the shop window. Of course, you can also choose a bouquet for yourself or as a gift.
"This year I'm doing my first Christmas exhibition. I'm really looking forward to it. We're also receiving Christmas trees, specifically Nordmann firs, from a local family. The local connection is important to me."
The bath products and scented candles are also perfect for the cooler season. Anja Hammami is particularly excited about the scented candles in amber, sandalwood, and orange. But of course, she also carries "regular" candles that aren't scented.
“All candles are made without animal fats.”
Just drop by
The owner attaches great importance to good customer relationships.
"Everything always happens so quickly, but with me, you can take your time and just come, look around, and soak up the atmosphere. Our rooms exude a lot of charm, and the old house exudes a sense of security—you feel at home."
The artists' works, which are constantly changing, are also worth a look. "In a typical gallery, the paintings hang on white walls, but here they form a symbiosis with the decor."
Not only the art, but also the furniture is unique. Anja Hammami notes: "We don't keep any furniture in stock. It is always produced on request with the selected fabric pattern and the corresponding colors. My six self-designed chairs are also unique."
