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Welcome to Stockholm, the vibrant capital of Sweden and a true design lover's paradise. Every year, the city comes alive during Stockholm Design Week (February 6-12), an event that showcases the best of Scandinavian design and architecture. As your design-obsessed travel guide, I'll take you on a journey through the must-see design destinations and events during this exciting week.
Stockholm Furniture Fair
The Stockholm Furniture Fair, which runs from 7–11 February 2023, is the mecca for Scandinavian Design. With over 400 exhibitors in the furniture and lighting industry, the fair attracts professional visitors from over 100 countries. For the 2023 edition, several new features have been added, including the new platform Älvsjö gård where the focus is collectable design, and The Nude Edition, a new exhibition area with smaller stands made from recycled materials. During the fair, a content-rich program with keynote speakers and inspiring design and architecture talks is offered. The guest of honour for 2023 is Design studio Front, making them the first Swedish designers to receive this award.
Scandinavian Design Awards
The Scandinavian Design Awards is a premier recognition program that celebrates the excellence of design, architecture, and interiors across Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland. With eight prestigious categories, including Architecture of the Year and Sustainability Award of the Year, the awards are a collaboration between the Stockholm Furniture Fair and the esteemed publishing house, It Is Media.
The aim of the awards is to recognize and honour both established and emerging architects and designers in Scndinavia, while fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry. The winners will be announced on February 6th during a spectacular awards dinner at the iconic Blå Hallen in Stockholm City Hall, attended by 600 guests. The evening will be hosted by Elis Monteverde Burrau, and supported by Audi and Jura. A limited number of tickets to the awards gala dinner are available for purchase, offering more people the opportunity to witness the recognition of the top talents in Scandinavian design.
Greenhouse
The 2023 Greenhouse exhibit at the Stockholm Furniture Fair is a showcase of boundary-pushing design, blending influences from space exploration and sneaker culture. As an international platform for emerging talent, Greenhouse acts as a launchpad for the next generation of designers. The jury for 2023 has carefully selected 32 individual designers and 30 design schools from 18 countries, all of whom boast a striking level of playful and experimental creativity in their work.
Design Night
Experience a unique shopping experience during Stockholm Design Night, where select design and interior stores in Stockholm extend an invitation to explore their stores and discover inspiration, expert advice, and exclusive offers. To locate participating stores, be sure to download the complimentary Stockholm Design Week app.
Museums
As an interior design lover visiting Stockholm, the city offers a wealth of museums that can provide inspiration, insights, and a deeper understanding of the history and evolution of the field. Here are some of the best museums to consider visiting:
- The National Museum of Fine Arts. This museum houses an extensive collection of Swedish and international art, including furniture, and decorative arts from the 16th century to the present day. The 18th-century Gustavian furniture collection is particularly noteworthy, offering a glimpse into the elegance and grandeur of the era.
- The Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design. Want to know more about the history and contemporary practice of architecture and design in Sweden? You found the right place! This museum features exhibits on prominent architects and designers, as well as interactive installations that explore the relationship between design and everyday life.
- The Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities. This museum houses a collection of art and artefacts from China, Japan, Korea, and other parts of Asia, providing an understanding of the influence of Asian design on Western interiors. The museum features furniture, decorative arts, and ceramics from various periods and cultures.
- The Museum of Medieval Stockholm. Get a glimpse into the history of Stockholm and the lives of its inhabitants during the Middle Ages in one place. The exhibits include reconstructions of mediaeval interiors and furniture, as well as artefacts and art from the period, providing a valuable understanding of the design and decorative arts of the time.
Take a walk through the beautiful architecture of Stockholm
For a break from all the design inspiration, take a stroll through the charming neighbourhoods of Södermalm and Gamla Stan. These areas are renowned for their beautiful architecture, trendy shops and restaurants, and colourful street art.
Indulge in some local cuisine
After a long day of exploring, it's time to refuel with some delicious Swedish cuisine. Treat yourself to traditional dishes like meatballs and lingonberry sauce, or sample some of the city's delightful seafood. And to top off the perfect day, head to one of Stockholm's many trendy bars for a cocktail or two..
Stockholm Design Week is a true celebration of the city's design heritage and creativity. With so many exciting events and destinations to explore, it's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of design. So pack your bags and enjoy this design adventure in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
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