Scandinavian design is the style of furniture, lighting, ceramics, glass, textiles and metalwork associated with Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland, and particularly the modern movement that developed there from the 1930s to the 1970s. It is known for clean lines, natural materials, careful craftsmanship and a strong emphasis on function and comfort.
The movement grew from strong traditions of craft and the belief that well-designed objects should be available to everyone. Leading figures include Alvar Aalto in Finland, Kaare Klint, Hans Wegner, Finn Juhl, Børge Mogensen and Arne Jacobsen in Denmark, and Bruno Mathsson in Sweden, while firms such as Royal Copenhagen, Orrefors, Iittala and Georg Jensen produced celebrated ceramics, glass and silver. Teak, oak, rosewood, birch and leather were favoured, along with handwoven textiles. Earlier Scandinavian traditions, including Swedish Gustavian furniture of the late eighteenth century with its pale painted finishes, are also widely collected. Collectors look for maker's labels, stamps and documented designs, as well as original finishes and upholstery. Scandinavian pieces blend naturally with antique furniture and bring warmth and simplicity to contemporary interiors.
