Sweden, probably more well known for Ikea than anything else, is the home of some of the world’s best designers.  Not least, Carl and Karin Larsson.  Between this husband and wife team, many would argue they single handedly engineered the rise and rise of Swedish design to what it is today.  A collection of contemporary furniture, fabulous glassware and ceramics and paintings with a depth unimaginable and that far exceed your expectations.   Swedish design and architecture was at it’s height between the years of 1925 and 1955.  Prior to this period, two main events would account for its rising popularity.  First of all, the World Exhibition in Stockholm in 1897, where Carl Larsson was able to showcase watercolours of interiors from his home in Sundborn, interiors that were mainly designed by his wife, Karin.   And secondly, in 1919 Gregor Paulsson – another major figure in the early history of Swedish design – published his ideas in the book "Vackrare vardagsvara" (More beautiful things for everyday use).
They were a leading nation in cool, agreeable forms and colours.  Then came the 60s and 70s, the dreaded period of mass production and avocado suites, it wasn’t until the 80s that Sweden began to make an impact once more, regaining its cool style and showing the world that it could get back to those roots of traditional and highly recognizable Swedish design.  The look is distinctive and much publicized by Ikea, something not to be sneered at.  Ikea in its way, has been a catalyst for everyday people being able to afford chic, stylish furniture without it burning a whole in their pocket.  The king of flat packs, Ikea has become a 20th century and possibly, 21st century icon for modern living.  Sweden, a country engulfed in trees, they’re not short of a few logs to make the stuff and we love it.  The joy of spending your entire Sunday afternoon navigating the super Ikea flagship store in Edmonton, then desperately trying to make that double wardrobe fit in the back of your mini cooper, to that first squeal of excitement at seeing your handiwork come to life as you build away for the rest of the night to the early hours of the morning.  It’s all worth it of course when your friends come over and gasp in amazement at the new addition to your fancy warehouse apartment nestled somewhere in Victoria or Kensington.   Light colours, smooth lines and contemporary style all go hand in hand to keep Swedish design very much as the top of its tree.