Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm
When two individuals grow a friendship based on the love of art and design, bravery and kindness the result can only be something as beautiful as Svenskt Tenn. Sitting pleasantly in a prestigious area of Stockholm called Strandvägen (where it has been since 1927), Svenskt Tenn is a fabulously colourful store created by art teacher Estrid Ericson. Our founders Sarah-Jane and Juliette visited the the store with Great Dane Furniture on their recent trip to Stockholm and, understandably, they needed two visits to accomplish the full Svenskt Tenn experience…
Svenskt Tenn has a rich history beginning in 1924 when the young Estrid Ericson opened a store that simply offered modern pewter objects. The store quickly gained recognition as one of quality and innovation, winning a gold medal at the World Exhibition in Paris just a year after opening. Estrid’s eye for beauty and interest in interiors took her on shopping expeditions from North to South America, England, France and Italy and by the 1930’s the company became known as one of Stockholm’s most fashionable Interior Design stores. Her wanderlusting spirit gives reason for Svenskt Tenn’s inherent ability to relate to designers around the world while at the same time remaining iconically Swedish.
The Nazi upheaval in Austria saw established Architect, Josef Frank flee his homeland to seek refuge in Stockholm – which he found at Svenskt Tenn – being employed by Estrid to work for the company. The relationship between Josef and Estrid grew into a lifelong friendship and one of Sweden’s most interesting (and successful) design collaborations.
– Josef Frank
With hints of Viennese elegance and Swedish functionalism, the Svenskt Tenn brand is a true example of timeless design, it is a legacy to the industry and the region. The combination of Estrid’s entrepreneurship and artistry and Josef’s vision for human modernism brought the success of Svenskt Tenn, a brand built on the values of sustainability, quality and commitment. By bringing together colours, patterns and motifs from all over the world, Estrid Ericson and Josef Frank have created an eclectic mix of textiles beyond their time that will be enjoyed and loved for many, years to come. Even in the height of winter (and we are sure similarly in the summer months) Svenskt Tenn is brimming with furniture, lighting and objects that delight the senses. The mood is warm, generous and spirited, reflecting the overall energy of beautiful Stockholm.
Credits: Svenskt Tenn
