Pair of "Radio" Chairs by Axel Einar Hjorth for Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden 1928
































Pair of "Radio" Chairs by Axel Einar Hjorth for Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden 1928
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in
49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Nordiska Kompaniet was founded in Stockholm in 1902, and to this day, it is regarded as one of the most renowned Swedish furniture manufacturers. The department store reflected modern society in different ways; it was a place where much was possible and consumption became not just a necessary everyday routine, but a lifestyle and a pleasure.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive sloping armrests. They also hold a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the supple upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. The juxtaposition of these materials creates a striking contrast. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty in order to make them as easy to use as possible. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these armchairs as well.
The overall model beautifully speaks of the zeitgeist of Scandinavia in the early-to-mid-20th century, a period characterised by a spirit of experimentation and a departure from traditional norms towards modernism. Evidently, this set is marked by its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and a bold departure from the ornate styles of the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned and reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.55 in W x 29.13 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 30.70 in
70 cm W x 74 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 78 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Art Deco, the glamorous and influential design movement that emerged in France during the early 20th century, left an indelible mark on the world of furniture design. Characterised by its bold geometric shapes, rich materials, and luxurious aesthetics, Art Deco transformed the way we perceive interior spaces. It was a testament to the fusion of form and function, and this ethos is beautifully exemplified in this pair of exquisite Art Deco armchairs.
This timeless pair of European Art Deco club chairs boasts a beautiful, almost sculptural frame with generous curves evoking the high-end craftsmanship of the movement that is steeped in old-school luxury and glamour. These armchairs are a true embodiment of the Art Deco style. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, their geometrically inspired frames are constructed from rich, stained birchwood that exudes opulence through its rich and versatile patterns and colours. The upholstery is equally striking, featuring sumptuous velour fabric in an earthly and elegant brown tone. The streamlined, round armrests and similarly rounded backs showcase the movement's commitment to modernity. The "fauteuil de style", also known as the armchair. In France, the history of furniture closely follows the history of kings, Furniture like armchairs could only be found in the rich homes of the high nobility, closely linked to the reigning monarch whose taste dictated fashion. This is why we talk about Louis XIII, Louis XIV, Régence, Louis XV, Louis XVI, Directory, Empire armchairs… To live up to the seating style’s rich history rooted in style and comfort, this pair has thick seat cushions, sides, and backs fully upholstered. Instead of traditional tapered legs, these chairs stand on rectangular wooden feet with an especially rich grain, that give them extra personality while also highlighting the curve of the arms.
Like club chairs, armchairs - perhaps the most quintessential pieces of furniture - were embraced during the Art Deco era for their comfort and timeless appeal. They were favoured in upscale clubs and lounges across Europe, providing an inviting haven for relaxation and socialising. These chairs symbolise an era of sophistication and luxury, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring allure of Art Deco design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium brown velour fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25 in W x 33.07 in D x 30.7 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Arm height 24.8 in
63.5 cm W x 84 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Arm height 63 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
These "Berga" chairs by David Rosén for Nordiska Kompaniet reflect the refined elegance and functional clarity that defined Scandinavian modernism. As a prominent figure in Swedish furniture design, Rosén worked extensively with Nordiska Kompaniet, one of the country’s most influential department stores and producers, creating furniture pieces that embodied the ideals of quality craftsmanship, restrained form, and comfort.
This pair of chairs exude a lovely charm and robust aesthetic that is characteristic of the era. In 20th century design, the use of wood held a special significance; it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasised the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. Moreover, in a rather distinctive way, softness and tradition merge in these armchairs. While it is elemental thanks to the solid stained pine and interesting construction, the roundness and elegantly sculpted form still provide a sense of gentleness. Pine was a popular choice of wood in Swedish furniture design during the early-to-mid 20th century. Axel Einar Hjorth was another prominent figure who extensively worked with pine, he was also the head of Nordiska Kompaniet during the time of Rosén’s tenure. Hjorth greatly contributed to the burgeoning Swedish design culture, in which these influences are seen in this pair of chairs.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair of chairs with utmost care for its quality and design. The company was among the most renowned Swedish lighting manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers - and this "Berga" model is a prime example of the great success these collaborations resulted in.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.25 in W x 25.20 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 23.22 in
87 cm W x 64 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The Czech company “ULUV Krásná jizba” produced some of the most beautiful Eastern European pieces of the mid-century era, both in terms of aesthetics and quality.
In the emerging design landscape of 1960s Czechoslovakia, Úľuv emerged as a prominent manufacturer, crafting pieces that blended functionality with artistic flair. Even in their repertoire, these chairs are standout creations with their sculptural structures, epitomizing the innovative spirit of mid-century Eastern European furniture design. The transition into the 1960s saw a fascinating fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design principles, with these chairs standing as testaments to this harmonious blend. Crafted from wood and rattan, these chairs exhibit a mastery of woodworking and design; they showcase an interesting visual unity that is both striking and functional. The square rattan backs add an element of texture and lightness, contributing to the overall visual balance of the chairs.
The use of rattan, a material traditionally associated with folk craftsmanship, reflects Úľuv's commitment to preserving cultural roots while embracing (then) contemporary design trends as well. Another defining feature of these chairs are the upholstered seat cushions, offering a comfortable juxtaposition to the angular and tactile qualities of the wooden and rattan elements. The light upholstery provides a soft counterpoint to the solid wood structure, ensuring that the chairs are not only visually appealing but also inviting and comfortable.
The clean lines, innovative use of materials, and commitment to quality above all make these chairs timeless design pieces, bridging the past and the present in a way that transcends fleeting design trends.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
24.21 in W x 28.15 in D x 28.94 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Seat depth 19.09 in
61.5 cm W x 71.5 cm D x 73.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Seat depth 48.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
"There is no style like art deco that embraces both the figurative and the abstract, the feminine and the masculine, the monumenta, the stringent and the opulent, the functional and the unnecessary. Art deco is a seducer that, with its cool language, will generously enrich our lives with beauty".
This pair of armchairs exemplifies why works from the 1930s and 40s are often considered to be a visual connection between the innovative Art Deco and Arts and Crafts movements of the early 20th century and European modern art and design from after the Second World War. This pair carries design elements from the Art Deco movement as well as early mid-century design, resulting in a unique and immediately recognizable aesthetic that’s based on daring curves and materials. The design of these chairs features a sensual curved birch frames that contrast beautifully with the thick, fully upholstered seats and backs. Further strengthening the transition into a more minimalistic modern aesthetic, these chairs don’t have any ornamentation. What really sets this model apart from the rest of the era’s impressive repertoire are the elegantly curved arms ascending into the front legs. Thus, the wooden frames are effortlessly flowing and dynamic. The luxurious red mohair upholstery covering the bodies contrast beautifully with the dark birch frames and accentuate the curves of both the arms and the legs. Art Deco was characterized by sleekness, opulence, and geometry, often prioritizing rich colours and luxe fabrics. These characteristics are also seen here, especially in the unique arms. The consciously and cleverly utilized contrast between the straight back legs and the subtly curved front ones, and between the colours and textures, define this pair’s aesthetic. The birch has an eye-catching grain and colour variation, which is most expressive on the armrests.
Though elements of Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern are markedly different, both styles value beauty, shape, and colour. The outstanding visual character of this pair of armchairs is both traditional and modern, simply timeless. This is precisely the charm of European early 20-century pieces, the effortless blend of design styles paired with the highest quality of materials and craftsmanship.
Condition:
In very good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium red mohair fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
22.63 in W x 31.1 in D x 32.87 in H ; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 24.6 in
57.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height: 43 cm; Arm height 62.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The “Little Adam” chair model is from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection from the Triva Series, which was created in 1958 by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
These armchairs hold a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist created the gentle, peculiar shape of these armchairs that is only increasing in popularity even today. Thanks to her unique vision, the “Little Adam” has an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seat, the chairs still have the impression of hugging the sitter. The fully upholstered body elevates the visual comfort, with a stitch tufted backrest that is festooned with buttons arranged in a hill shape. This subtle form of decoration highlights the shape of the back by mirroring it, while also accentuating the light fabric by giving it extra depth. The stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the organic form of the body. Contrasting the front legs, the back ones are lightly splayed to provide great structural stability.
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, the “Little Adam” armchair has become iconic. Thanks to the upholstery’s soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design, these armchairs are a perfect example of the gentle mid-century modernism Swedish design of the era is beloved for.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
28.74 in W x 28.74 in D x 28.93 in H; Seat Height 15.74 in; Arm height 22.24 in
73 cm W x 73 cm D x 73.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Arm height 56.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle, and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in."
Hörlin-Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war, where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Lilla Eva” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine, symmetrically arranged buttons.
The upholstery is a premium, robust medley of wool and linen fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. The yellow cross stitches give this pair a modern flair, contrasting stylishly to the light fabric. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium fabric.
Dimensions:
27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in
70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Lilla Eva” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine, symmetrically arranged buttons.
The upholstery is a premium, robust medley of wool and linen fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in
70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
These “Adam” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection from the Triva Series, which was created in 1958 by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with stitch tufted backrests that are festooned with orange, symmetrically arranged cross stitches.
The upholstery is a premium, light Italian fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. Similarly, the stained and tapered beech legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Adam” easy chairs have become iconic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium Italian fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.71 in W x 33.46 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat Height 16.14 in
78 cm W x 85 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat Height 41 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Hörlin-Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war, where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Lilla Eva” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine, symmetrically arranged buttons.
The upholstery is a premium fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in
70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.