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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

This rare pair of “Pele” lounge chairs by Finnish designer Esko Pajamies is, without a doubt, his most stunning chair design. It is seldom we see a chair model and immediately recognise it, but Pajamies managed to design such a piece. His unconventional design was strongly characterised by durability and functionality as well as insightful technical solutions.

In Finland, the 1970s saw the use of new materials like plastic, synthetics, and fibreglass being combined with advances in manufacturing technologies, allowing designers to expand their range of colours and forms in mass production. However, this lounge chair model still gives preference to natural materials, primarily to its solid oak structure. The wooden frame provides a firm base with rounded edges. Undeniably, the most eye-catching and distinctive element of this design is the way in which the seat and the back legs of the armchairs are formed by one elongated piece of wood. The ergonomic design with the bent backrest, wide armrests, and upholstered cushions make this pair of lounge chairs exceptionally comfortable. It therefore comes as no surprise, that this model first gained popularity as a TV chair for homes. Later it became a popular choice for fireplace rooms as well as public spaces, similarly to several other designs of Pajamies.

This model was manufactured by the Finnish furniture company, Lahden Lepokalusto Oy in the 1970s. The Lahti-based company has been furnishing public spaces for almost 70 years, and gained worldwide recognition through the iconic furniture designs of Professor Yrjö Kukkapuro and later, Esko Pajamies.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The cushions have recently been 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:

92 cm W x 94 cm D x 88 cm H

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

The “Oskar” armchair was designed in 1939; a busy year for Carl Malmsten as he also participated in the New York World Fair. It was at this fair where the expression “Swedish Modern” was coined, but Malmsten remained a traditionalist, mainly concerned with comfort in the home.

As with so many of Malmsten’s pieces of furniture, Oskar was modelled on an earlier design. This pair belongs to Carl Malmsten's earlier works, and the structures are made of solid pine from Swedish forests. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frames are expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at their core. While these armchairs may seem less “Malmstenesque”, they already have the gentle curves that defined his later designs. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The gently bent backrests are tufted with dark yellow stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. The structures are supported by the tapered, solid pine legs that add an organic touch to the design. This chair model is reminiscent of the furnishings of the sitting room of Ulriksdal Palace, which was given to the crown prince and princess, Gustav and Louise, by the Swedish people in 1923. Malmsten was commissioned to create the decor for the room, and the Oscar armchair may have been a template for this period and perhaps that is why Carl Malmsten gave the chair a royal-sounding name.

The company known today as O.H. Sjögren was established as early as the 1870s. Carl Malmsten, who had hitherto only produced the most exclusive and unique furniture for a limited and affluent clientele, sought manufacturers who were able to produce his furniture in larger volumes without compromising the high demands he placed on craftsmanship and quality. He chose O.H. Sjögren, and together they developed and marketed the many items of upholstered furniture that have become classics today.

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 reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

28.74 in W x 29.92 in D x 37.4 in H; Seat height 16.33 in

73 cm W x 76 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm

About the Designer:

Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.

In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.

Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.

Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today.

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Swedish design is characterised by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. The mastery of Swedish designer and architect, Bertil Fridhagen lies in creating a model that is, as its name suggests, aristocratic and minimal at the same time.

This stunning pair of solid walnut armchairs combines elements of classical and modern design with utmost quality. The solid walnut beautifully frames the upholstered bodies, outlining the welcoming silhouette of the chairs. The frames have a stunning curvaceous design, that is visually appealing from all angles. The embracing body’s curve enhances the beautiful original chenille upholstery with small deep-stitched buttons. Swedish design prefers colours rooted in nature, muted tones that aren’t screaming about their presence, but still attract the eye naturally. The chairs’ yellow chenille upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. The cushions are removeable and reversible, adding to the comfort of the sitter.

Bröderna Andersson, the chairs’ manufacturer is first and foremost characterised by Swedish quality, Småland craftsmanship and professional pride. At Bröderna Andersson's, the entire production chain was under one roof. From the choice of wood species to the production of frames, and careful attention so that the last seam is in place, quality is Bröderna Andersson’s word of honour.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the wood. The chairs retain their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:

32.08 in W x 32.48 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 19.48 in

81.5 cm W x 82.5 D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 49.5 cm

About the Designer:

Bertil August Julius Fridhagen was born on February 16 in1905 in Norra Sandsjö parish, Jönköping county, and was a renowned Swedish architect and furniture designer.

Bertil Fridhagen grew up in Bodafors. His father was a carpenter and he also started as a carpenter at AB Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he became the student of the architect Carl Erik Ekholm. Later, he decided to further his education at Konstfack in Stockholm. In a reversed way, Fridhagen started out gaining experience in cabinetry before completing his formal education in architecture.

He returned to Bodafors in 1937, where at first, he was employed at Sandsjö Möbelfabrik (1937-39) and then became chief architect at Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he succeeded his teacher, Ekholm. He became an important figure for the success of Svenska Möbelfabrikerna and in 1964 Bertil Fridhagen's models accounted for two thirds of home furniture production, which was an extreme success. For comparison, the much more well-known designer, Carl Malmsten's models accounted for a quarter. Bertil Fridhagen's biggest sales success was the combination series “Variett”.

Fridhagen won numerous prizes at various design competitions, including in Denmark in 1954, the California State Fair in Sacramento with the Librettserien in 1956, in Italy in 1966, 1968 and 1970 and in Tennessee in 1972. He also designed buildings, but above all interiors, he is remembered for the Bodafors church. The designer is remembered for his versatile models which are beautiful examples of Swedish design ideals. ~H.

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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur

The “Stora Eva” chair model is from the timeless and iconic Paradiset Collection from the Triva Series, which was created in the 1950s by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time at Nordiska Kompaniet. Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and because of her uncompromising attitude, she became one of Sweden’s most renowned mid-century furniture designers.

Hörlin-Holmquist once remarked "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” and these armchairs are an elegant example of that sentiment. Characterised by the best qualities of mid-century design, these chairs can be incorporated into both contemporary and traditional interiors, lending itself to a timeless, universal appeal. The elegant lines and shape of the backrest create a striking silhouette. The tufted buttons on the backrest serve as the only form of ornamentation, and add to the visual richness of the model. The soft white upholstery is complemented by the tapered stained wood legs. Tilted in the back, the slim legs have a classically modern look. The "Stora Eva" model expresses a particular feeling of warmth and comfort with its friendly and rounded form. Standing at the intersection of form and function, this is a timeless model that will never go out of style.

The craftsmanship displayed in these armchairs are a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the mid 20th century, reflecting the technical skill and artistic vision of both Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist and Nordiska Kompaniet.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches on the wood. The chairs have been recently 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:

28.34 in W x 32.67 in D x 38.38 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 18.70 in; Arm height 22.44 in

72 cm W x 83 cm D x 97.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 47.5 cm; Arm height 57 cm

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

This pair of spectacular armchairs by Swedish designer, Svante Skogh, is a rather rare example of the interior and furniture designer’s repertoire. With a creative and masterfully crafted wooden structure, these chairs deserve the limelight in Swedish design history.

These chairs combine function and aesthetic in a striking manner, keeping the form in service of the user while keeping it elegant and modern. The union of the shell-shaped body and the back legs’ structure define this model. While made of entirely different materials, their lines manage to resemble and complement each other, resulting in a harmonious appearance. The back legs not only support the bodies, but also rise to form the support for the armrests. The clear lined frame of this pair contrasts beautifully with the angled seating and gives the pair an open and very photographic appearance. The armrests’ black paint is a small, but ingenious detail, that highlights their form and create a focal point. Due to the well-chosen proportions, angled back, and the high-quality of the design, the chairs are very comfortable.

In Sweden, “svensk design” (Swedish design) in particular operates as a set of relations linking the everyday world - composed of objects, spaces, people - to the cultural ideologies that motivate the persistence of a social democratically infused “way of life.” Thanks to this sentiment, cabinetmakers, like Förenade Möbelfabrikerna, put an emphasis on soft elegance and functionality, making these chairs timeless in every sense of the word.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The black paint has partially worn off with time. The chairs have recently been reupholstered in premium sheepskin. 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:

26.77 in W x 32.28 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 15.35 in

68 cm W x 82 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 39 cm

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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.

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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: 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

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The ‘Skrindan’ armchair model was designed in 1963 by iconic Swedish designer Kerstin Hörlin-Homquist. Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, she created some of the most famous Swedish models of the era.

The unique stained beech frames are a visual delight, with subtle decorative elements that distinguish this pair from other models of the era. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created her models with such precision and creativity that still makes them collectible pieces. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have unmistakable backs and sides comprised of symmetrically arranged spindles. As the backs and armrests sit relatively low, the chairs have an open look. The sheepskin upholstery of the back and seat cushions elevate the visual comfort.

OPE Möbler, Jönköping produced the furniture designs of some of Scandinavia’s most renowned designers, such as Ib Kofod-Larsen, Ingemar Thillmark, and of course, Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist. These ‘Skrindan’ armchairs are exemplary of Swedish mid-century quality and design to its core, uniting functionality with an understated, yet interesting and elegant design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. 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:

29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 17.34 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 23.62 in

75 cm W x 85 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 60 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.

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

These rocking chairs, born from the era's penchant for Brutalist design, manage to strike an intriguing balance between the rugged and the refined. The 1970s marked a distinctive period in design, and the Brutalist movement, characterised by its raw, unapologetic use of materials, left an indelible mark on furniture.

These rocking chairs embody the spirit of Brutalism, boasting a robust pine wood construction that conveys a sense of strength and durability. Yet, in a departure from the harsh edges often associated with Brutalist design, these chairs surprise with soft, flowing lines that gently cradle the sitter. Pine wood, the choice of material for this pair, brings its own set of advantages: renowned for its resilience, pine became a canvas for many 20th century designers to showcase the marriage of strength and grace. The natural grain of the wood, visible through a subtle finish, adds depth to the chairs, embracing the imperfections that come with time, like a visual memoir of shared moments. The essence of these rocking chairs lies not just in their design, but also in the experience they offer. Rocking chairs, with their rhythmic motion, invite contemplation and relaxation. They transform a simple seat into a haven, a place to unwind and reflect. The designer clearly understood the timeless allure of a rocking chair, choosing to augment the utilitarian aspect of seating with an inherent connection to human comfort. The upholstered seats and back cushions provide great comfort, and also a gentle contrast to the starkness of the pine wood. These cushions, rather than diminishing the Brutalist appearance, accentuate it. Softness meets strength, and the result is a tactile experience that harmonises the senses. The light, textural upholstery, carefully selected for its texture and neutrality, introduces a touch of luxury without compromising the chair's integrity.

These rocking chairs stand as visual illustrations of the era's exploration of contradictions. They are both bold and welcoming, robust and refined. This design, pairing of materials, and sheer quality make them truly special accent pieces.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium linen fabric. Normal patina, including some scratches and marks.

Dimensions:

31.29 in W x 36.81 in D x 35.62 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 22.04 in

79.5 cm W x 93.5 cm D x 90.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Arm height 56 cm

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

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Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs, gained recognition for their use of traditional materials and forms like fabrics and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Pilot” chairs was designed by Arne Norell in 1967 and each of them was handmade in Aneby, Sweden in the same factory that Norell established himself a decade earlier. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine Swedish modern chair.

The design of these remarkable chairs carries a certain “design weight” that is the result of their understated elegance, premium materials, and the outstanding craftsmanship. Norell was known for his versatile use of wood and leather in his furniture designs that are characterized by comfort and ease and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. These “Pilot” easy chairs are no exception with a design idiom centred on the curved wooden legs, stylish upholstery, and the subtly curved bodies offering gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being.  The tightly fitted velour fabric and wood complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing each other’s individual qualities, such as the wood legs’ distinctive curves and the fabric’s rich texture and colour. The result is an infinitely elegant and comfortable look that is unlikely to ever lose its appeal, and only get more stylish with time. This pair of "Pilot" easy chairs encapsulates the essence of Norell’s innovative approach to furniture design. The laminated beech legs allow the shape to be bent and result in the distinctive look this chair model is famous for. Norell began his journey as a furniture designer in the 1950s, becoming renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend comfort and aesthetics through innovative experimentations. During the 1960s, Swedish furniture design witnessed a transformative period marked by a departure from ornate and heavy styles to more streamlined, minimalist forms. Arne Norell played a pivotal role in shaping this evolution, embracing a modernist ethos while staying true to the principles of craftsmanship and quality materials. His designs, including these "Pilot" models, are celebrated for their timeless appeal and functional elegance and style. These chairs epitomize Norell's design philosophy, featuring clean lines, organic shapes, and a commitment to ergonomic excellence. These chairs were produced and are marked by Möbel AB Arne Norell (today known as Norell Möbel AB) in Aneby, Sweden. The workshop was founded in 1954 by Arne Norell, and ever since its establishment, it has been a family business carrying on Norell’s design legacy. In fact, the same factory that Arne Norell built in the 1950s is still where the company exists today in Sweden.

The perks of incorporating these "Pilot" easy chairs into interior design are manifold; their ergonomic design and lush upholstery make them inviting and comfortable, creating an ideal setting for relaxation. Furthermore, thanks to their mid-century modern aesthetic, these chairs can seamlessly adapt to various interior styles, from  modern to contemporary, making them versatile additions to any space. The timeless aesthetic of these "Pilot" chairs ensures that they remain relevant and stylish across different design trends. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, easy chairs like the "Pilot" serve as focal points in a room, elevating the overall design scheme. Whether placed in a cosy reading nook or as part of a larger seating arrangement, these chairs effortlessly enhance the visual appeal of the space.

‎Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium velour 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:

32.28 in W x 29.92 in D x 29.52 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25 in

76.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Arm height 55 cm

About the designer:

Arne Norell started his own workshop in 1954 in the town of Solna, Sweden. Thereafter, he moved to Småland and established his company Möbel AB Arne Norell, today known as Norell Möbel AB (Norell Furniture). He was known for his versatile use of wood, leather, fabric, and metal in furniture characterized by comfort and ease. Norell’s success made him a household name within the interior design-world of Europe. Several models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence.

He was to a great extent inspired by Danish design. Two examples of this influence are the lounge chair Ari and the safari chair Sirocco. Ari was awarded the British Furniture Manufacturer’s greatest award “showpiece of the year” in 1973. Many of the models he designed came into production after his death in 1971. His designs are still handcrafted by the same company today, Norell Möbel AB.

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

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Carl Malmsten’s life's work spans nearly sixty intense years and his legacy is considered a national treasure in Sweden. He created a number of furniture classics including these rare “Elder man” armchairs.

His entire work is characterized by a close-to-nature philosophy which is deeply rooted in Swedish nature and commoner culture. A deeper knowledge of Carl Malmsten as a person means that his furniture can be seen not only as utilitarian objects, but also as artistic works with the ability to express a feeling or mood. These winged armchairs carry with them that certain “Malmstenesque” that is characterized by gentle curves, a cosy appearance and of course, the highest quality craftsmanship. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The slightly bent backrests are tufted with dark brown leather stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frames are expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at their core. To complete the mid-century look, the structures are supported by tapered, solid wood legs that add an organic touch to the design.

In the 50s, Carl Malmsten’s furniture were produced in small series in smaller workshops, which meant that the furniture became very expensive and thus inaccessible to most people. He then decided to select a number of producers who could produce his furniture in larger volumes without sacrificing quality, beauty, and practicality. In Tranås he came into contact with O.H. Sjögren which he considered fulfilled all the high demands he placed on the production of upholstered furniture.

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:

Chair 1

28.74 in W x 34.64 in D x 41.33 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 21.65 in

73 cm W x 88 cm D x 105 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 55 cm

Chair 2

29.52 in W x 32.67 in D x 41.73 in H; Seat height 14.56 in; Arm height 21.65 in

75 cm W x 83 cm D x 106 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Arm height 55 cm

About the Designer:

Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.

In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.

Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.

Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship, and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today. ~H.