Sleek, Straight and Stylish

Creating Swedish Modern Living Spaces

By Derek Groves

The term Swedish Modern has been floating around design communities for years, but what exactly is the look, and where did it come from?

Swedish Modern is an international classification for the style of furniture made popular by Swedish artisans, like Carl Malmsten (1888-1972). Malmsten, who is considered to be the father of modern Swedish furniture, believed in design that reflected nature's simplistic lines and beauty.

Although most Swedish furniture can be categorized as modern, the original artisans that created the look took influence from the English arts and crafts movement, and their designs reflected the liberal socialist society that Sweden once was. This look can be used as a period d袯r, or it can be successfully combined with other pieces from the modern era. "Practical beauty" makes Swedish Modern easy to live with and ideal when a long lasting modern decor is your goal.

A few characteristics make this furniture period unique:

• Sleek straight lines (representative of nature's harmony);
• A lack of ornamentation;
• The use of light woods, like walnut and teak (the perfect material to create curves and roundings);
• Square or round tapered leg styles.

Woven fibers on chair seats add a subtle element of texture to an otherwise smooth simple design. Another element of surprise is the effective use of modern plastics in upholstery pieces. Whatever the material or line may be, Swedish Modern is as unique as the nature and society that inspired it.

If you're looking to incorporate Swedish Modern into your home, here's something to keep in mind. Although this style can be combined with pieces from traditional eras, like Chinese Chippendale and some Adams and Sheraton pieces, it is most effective when used exclusively within a modern design concept. You can obtain the Swedish Modern look in your living room by following these three steps.

Want to see more?

• English Country Comfort: The Style of Cotswold Cottage
• French Country Fabrics: Using Fabrics to Create a French Feel
• A Place for Everything and Everything in its Place: Tools and Techniques to Attack Home Organization
• Talk about it!