Carl Malmsten Furniture

The “Samspel”, or “Interaction” sofa model was first introduced at the exhibition at Röhsska Museet (the Swedish Museum of Design and Crafts) in Gothenburg in 1956. The model’s name ...

The “Marino” armchair was designed in 1937, just 2 years before Malmsten participated in the New York World Fair. It was there that the expression “Swedish Modern” was launched, but ...

Carl Malmsten is one of Sweden's most famous furniture designers. Many of his furniture models are considered modern design classics, with a uniting aesthetic that could be defined as a certain “Malmstenesque” quality. In the mid-1950s, Carl Malmsten awarded ten small furniture companies, mainly in Småland, the honour of making a series of some of his products. Like his models "Lilla Åland...

The famous “Visingsö” series demonstrates Carl Malmsten’s fine sense of proportion, line tension and balance between the surfaces, and how skilfully he carried in the heritage of tra...

“Jonas Love” is an iconic model that was the inspiration behind Malmsten’s several “count” chairs. With a klismos-style curved back, this pair of armchairs is the result of the work ...

This Carl Malmsten sofa is called exactly what ABBA was called before they changed their name: Fästfolket. In the past, an engaged couple were often referred to as 'fixed people' in Sweden. This type of sofa is often referred to as a loveseat, from the idea that a couple can share it, sitting very close together. The name of this model may well be a reference to this. Swedish design can be productively explored along two axes: Carl Malmsten on one end, and Bruno Mathsson at the other. Carl Malmsten represents the more traditional axis, embracing industrialization less and favouring instead the ‘homely curviness’. Sweeping curves with an organic impression and outmost quality: these are the main characteristics that define this sofa. Even as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated artisanal furniture design based on local materials and traditions. “Break all edges thoroughly” was a frequent instruction on Carl Malmsten’s drawings and nature was his great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found on his designs. This model is no different with round, outward curving edges on the back and arms and a thick, cosy seat. These features greatly enhance the open and welcoming impression. The organicity of the design is not broken by ornamentation, instead the warm, mustard coloured upholstery is utilized to highlight the shape of the sofa. The sofa is supported by slim tapered legs made of solid wood with a stunning grain. Although Carl Malmsten’s furniture was very much a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them equally up-to-date and loved today. This Fästfolket sofa is just as lovely as its name suggests with that certain “Malmstenesque” that makes the designer’s pieces one-of-a-kind. Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium velour fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information. Dimensions: 55.9 in W x 32.28 in D x 27.75 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Arm height 22.63 in 142 cm W x 82 cm D x 70.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm About the Designer: Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall...

Carl Malmsten’s life's work spans nearly sixty intense years and his legacy is considered a national treasure in Sweden. He created a number of furniture classics including this rare...

All edges are thoroughly broken, Carl Malmsten often wrote in his drawings. It was nature that was his great source of inspiration and in nature there are hardly any sharp edges or c...

In the mid-1950s, Carl Malmsten awarded ten small furniture companies, mainly in Småland, the honour of making a series of some of his products. Among the first pieces was Farmor, wh...

All edges are thoroughly broken, Carl Malmsten often wrote in his drawings. It was nature that was his great source of inspiration and in nature there are hardly any sharp edges or c...

“Samsas” is for many the most associated model with Carl Malmsten. The designer devoted his life to the renewal of traditional Swedish craftsmanship, inspired by Swedish country mano...

Carl Malmsten devoted his life to the renewal of traditional Swedish craftsmanship, inspired by the cultural examples of the Swedish country manor and rustic styles – furniture endow...