Scandinavian Design

The long awaited guide to Scandinavian Design by Lars Bolander and Heather Smith MacIsaac.

I have always been attracted to Swedish design and furniture. Perhaps it is the color palettes of pale greys, whites and blues that are so soothing to me. Maybe, it is the clean and simple lines that bring harmony to my otherwise chaotic world. Whatever the reason is, swedish design and furnishings are very prevalent in my own collection and I was extremely excited to pick up a copy of the latest book by Lars Bolander and Heather Smith MacIsaac, both of whom are experts in the subject. If you are a lover of Swedish design, you should see this book! A comprehensive overview of all aspects of Scandinavian design, the book is a visual delight as well as being a serious resources guide for anyone interested in the tenants of Scandinavian decor.

So while I lounged around this Thanksgiving holiday, I chose some of my favorite photos below from the book to share with you. In doing so, I realized how many of my own swedish style pieces could fit right into these photos.

"Tailored white slipcovers bring an exquisite 1770s Swedish dining room down to earth."
Above, from my own collection on 1stdibs, c. 1910 French Louis XIII Style Os du Mouton Walnut Chairs Upholstered in Belgian Linen with natural french nailheads.



Swedish Gustavian Style Chandelier, also on 1stdibs.



"Though many of the elements in this eighteenth-century Swedish living room display age and wear, the overall effect is fresh and inviting. A delicate floral fabric for the sofa’s squabs, along with pieces of blue and white porcelain, brightens the otherwise muted tone." (Scandinavian Design).



This 19th Century Antique Swedish Style Server would fit right in the living room above. It is one of my favorite, simple pieces that capture the essence of my love for swedish interiors.



As would this charming Swedish Style Painted Drop Leaf Secretary (on loan right now to the set of Twilight: Breaking Dawn, currently being filmed in New Orleans). This little piece will be in Edward and Bella's romantic cottage along with a couple of other pieces from my shop.



Another of my favorite swedish pieces -- this Swedish Style Painted Corner Cabinet.

And this oyster white painted commode.

And finally, this Vintage Painted Swedish Style Table.




This wooden bed featured in Scandinavian Design is so simple and yet so inviting. It echoes the simple, painted frame of this lovely 19th c. convent bed -- part of my new inventory on 1stdibs.
With its shorter than normal frame and high sides, this bed would be perfect for a child's first bed.


For more Swedish design and inspiration...
Visit the Lars Bolander showrooms in New York and Palm Beach Here.

(Photos courtesy of Lars Bolander's Scandinavian Design).
A special thanks to Rhonda Eleish and Edie Van Breems whose books Swedish Interiors and Swedish Country Interiors have also inspired my work and this post.