This simple, beautifully designed and executed coffee table shows why this is. This early mid-century modern Göran Malmvall table combines aesthetics with modern functionality in line with Sweden’s design philosophy. Early 20th century Swedish minimalist furniture is all over the place, and there are plenty of reasons why.

The Malmvall pieces that appeal to most are the models designed for “Svensk Fur”, for the sheer fact that they seem completely contemporary and undated. The pieces of the “Svensk Fur” line, such as this coffee table, are often compared to the designs of Axel Einar Hjorth, even though Malmvall’s designs are exceptional on their own merit. Self-taught, Göran Malmvall was a highly skilled cabinetmaker with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. This table holds a natural expression with its airy and organic design, which is dominated by the natural beauty of the material. The tabletop is rectangular, rounded near the edges. The wide top showcases the solid pinewood’s beautiful pattern, reinforcing the rustic feel of the table along with the legs that are gently tapered and tilted to support stability.

Swedish modern – despite its name – in many ways transcends the word ‘modern’, and so does Göran Malmvall. Like the style, the Svensk Fur pieces can be incorporated successfully into contemporary and traditional interiors alike, lending themselves to a timeless and universal appeal.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The surface has some marks and scratches.

Dimensions:

31.50 in W x 19.69 in D x 20.87. in H

80 cm W x 50 cm D x 53 cm H

About the Designer:

Göran Malmvall (1917–2001) was the youngest son of the manufacturing company’s founder, Karl Andersson. He studied furniture design under Carl Malmsten and was involved with the family business from an early age until 1982, mainly in the capacity of an in-house furniture designer.

Self-taught, he was a highly skilled cabinet-maker with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. His most notable designs include Svensk Fur, Svitjod and, not least, the KA 72 cabinet series, first created in 1972 and already a modern classic.

The manufacturer, Karl Andersson & Söner was established in 1898, when carpentry master Karl Andersson started to produce “durable and sustainable furniture” in his parents' home in the village of Berghem between Huskvarna and Gränna. Over a hundred years later, the historic company still manufactures quality furniture and designer furniture in their own modern factory in Huskvarna. ~H.