Nordic Design

Scandinavian designs made up a large part of the whole industry of home furnishings in the 20th century, and there are several stand out designers that contributed to this. Some of these names are Bruno Mathsson, Hans Wegner, Arne Jacobson, and Alvar Aalto. One of the most prominent, though, is the memorable Yngve Ekström, who was born in 1913 in the city of Hagafors, Sweden.

The city of Hagafors in Sweden has a tradition of making furniture, which goes back a long time and a young Yngve Ekström was naturally drawn to an industry which was all around him. Like many Scandinavian designers, he not only studied the practice of wood crafting but also the theory of the evolution of the art through its history. He also studied aesthetics like painting and sculpture and these elements are reflected in his work.

Along with his brother Jerker he founded Swedese in 1945, which is one of the most highly respected producers of modern furniture today. He was active in the company for more than forty years, all the way up until his passing. Swedese products included elegant artistic pieces for use in the home, but the designs also became quite popular for use in upscale offices and businesses due to their clean, utilitarian construction.

The Lamino Chair, which is probably his most well known piece was originally created in the 1950's. This chair is still being made today and is a much sought after piece. In 1999, a Swedish design magazine reported that the Lamino chair was the greatest Swedish chair in the Twentieth Century. In 2003, the Lamino chair was awarded the prestigious Design Innovation, by the I.M.M. in Cologne.

Looking at the chair from any angle provides views of its beautiful curves. A matching ottoman is often accompanies it. There are several options for wood for the frame and the upholstery. The chair can be designed to meet any taste or style. The versatility of the chairs and their simple lines and looks make even today's models sell for between two and three thousand dollars. Examples of earlier versions of the chair have sold for more.

At the head of his company until his death in 1988, Yngve Ekström continued to produce many legendary ideas. His style is very versatile and long lasting and ideas which were radical at first are now the main stays of good design, complimenting all kinds of decorating options (heminredning) and looking especially good with wooden floors.

Scandinavian design was a very big part of the 20th century home furnishings industry, and some names truly stand out. A young Swedish man quickly stood out; yngve ekström from Hagafors, in Sweden with a rich history of furniture making. He studied wood crafting and design along with courses in art history, drawing, and sculpture allowing him to incorporate stylistic elements he learned in those classes into his work. He and his brother (Jerker) created Swedese in 1945. He continued to be active in the company until he passed away, leaving a career that spanned more than forty years.