By Fleur Robinson, Area Sales Manager for Bolon Flooring
Stepping into the vibrancy of Stockholm Design Week felt like entering a city of innovation and artistry. This annual festival, themed “Connecting the Dots,” celebrated not only Swedish design but also the entire Scandinavian aesthetic, bringing together emerging talents and established brands for a week of inspiration.
A central aspect of my experience was Bolon, where our flooring was prominently featured in various installations throughout the fair. My first stop was the Bolon Lab Store on Birger Jarlsgatan 32 A. The space buzzed with excitement, embodying the spirit of experimentation that defined the event.
Unsurprisingly, sustainability was a major talking point, reflecting the industry’s growing focus on practices that are more respectful of the environment. Bolon’s contributions were showcased in the “Plastic Perspectives” exhibition, which explored our complex relationship with plastic. Our flooring demonstrated the potential of this versatile material, inviting visitors to reconsider its role in design as something refined and circular rather than disposable. The exhibition also featured artworks crafted from industrial plastic waste and recycled materials, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful consumption and innovation. This focus on sustainability resonated throughout the fair, with many brands championing responsible practices.
One brand I predict will gain attention is the Malmö-based studio Lab La Bla, known for working with innovative materials like mining dust and ground cork to create unique furniture and finishes. It was thrilling to see their space adorned with a vibrant Bolon floor.
Another standout was the serene “En Bar Bara” at the Greenhouse, designed by All Matters Studio. This tranquil space allowed Bolon’s Elements collection to shine, creating an inviting atmosphere that played with light and material. The design encouraged a dialogue between materials and their environment, showcasing how light can transform a space.
My passion for Scandinavian furniture was reignited this year as Fritz Hansen celebrated the iconic Series 7 chair, now 70 years old. This beloved piece, a design staple since its debut, served as a reminder of the enduring beauty of Scandinavian craftsmanship and the timelessness of thoughtful design.
I was also captivated by the Nordgrona Moss Enfold Fragrance stand, which beautifully integrated natural elements and aromatic experiences into its design. This installation highlighted the intersection of sensory engagement and sustainability, reinforcing the idea that design can be both functional and enriching.
Young voices in design were prominently featured across various exhibitions, injecting fresh perspectives that invigorate the industry. A notable highlight was the collaboration between Johanson Design and Tekla Severin, which drew inspiration from the Art Deco era while embracing contemporary aesthetics. Their installation engaged visitors in a labyrinthine layout that showcased the synergy between Johanson’s furniture and Tekla’s signature textiles.
Beyond the stands, I enjoyed various talks throughout the event. British designer and this year’s guest of honor, Faye Toogood invited visitors into a dialogue that transcended mere consumption. Her MANUFRACTURE installation at the Furniture Fair encouraged a deeper reflection on the origins of the objects around us – who crafted them and how, and blurring the lines between artist and artistry. She also spoke about the prevalence of the fear of experimentation which often leads to predictable design outcomes – food for thought!
Another key theme was the lack of resources – both time and money – that create barriers to using new materials. Norwegian entrepreneur Celine Sandberg is the founder and CEO of Agoprene, a startup on a mission to reinvent furniture foam using seaweed and natural materials to tackle the furniture industry’s reliance on fossil fuel-derived polyurethane foam.
The performance of petroleum-based products versus newer, more sustainable resources was also a significant topic. Natsai Audrey Chieza, CEO of Faber Futures, discussed harnessing the potential of biological technologies, from experimenting with bacterial dyes to bio-concretes, to create alternatives to plastics, petrochemicals and other pollutants.
For me, Stockholm Design Week was a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of Scandinavian design. It served as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to innovate while honoring the rich heritage of craftsmanship that defines our industry.
Looking ahead to the Stockholm Furniture Fair 2026, I hope to see a stronger partnership between innovative materials and the industry, ensuring that we provide holistic, sustainable solutions rather than fragmented parts. By embracing these changes, we can create a more cohesive and impactful future in design.