When you think of Swedish design, you likely have images of stark minimalism come to mind. Maximalist 180° turns that thought on its head. Presented by Adorno as part of Adorno London earlier this year, eleven designers shed the country’s history in favor of maximalism. Collector and curator Stephen Markos chose these individuals to showcase a creative balance between refined and rustic with pieces that might find their place in a home or elsewhere. They’re representatives of Swedish design’s maximalist-leaning creators who bring togethers crafts, techniques and materials, taking their cues from trends in Europe and beyond.
“There is a lot to say about this shift in thinking, from classic Scandinavian design to something which blurs the lines of minimalism and maximalism. There is a desire to innovate and carve out a new space for both emerging and established designers. Alongside this, traditional craft practices remain highly revered, albeit with a twist,” said Markos.
Andrea Santivanez, Fringefloss \\\ Photo: Helena Pataki
Virtually presented in a concrete skatepark surrounded by a field of flowers, designers Andrea Santivanez, Elias Båth, Gustav Winsth, Jonatan Nilsson, Josefin Zachrisson, Julia Olanders, LAB LA BLA, Oscar Wall, Lisa Hartwig Ericson, Maria Bang Espersen and Sofie Wallenius demonstrated Sweden’s breadth of creativity. By bringing together the country’s traditional hantverk (or handicrafts) – such as glass blowing, textile development and woodwork – a wide variety of furniture and decorative objects were created to give us just a taste of what to look for from the country in the future.
Gustav Winsth, DIO \\\ Photo: Olov Karlsson
Jonatan Nilsson, Shifting Shape Vase \\\ Photo: Tor Westerlund
Josefin Zachrisson & Mira Bergh, Seats System Series \\\ Photo Double Up Studio
LAB LA BLA, BBQ Chair #8
Lisa Hartwig Ericson, Blob Lamp
Maria Bang Espersen, No Mirror \\\ Photo: MBE
Oscar Wall, RYA
Julia Olanders, Pink Pearl Lamp \\\ Photo: Karin Olanders
Elias Båth, Död Mark \\\ Photo: Ale Erlingmark
Sofie Wallenius, Frame Shaming Chair
To learn more about Maximalist 180°, visit adorno.design.
Kelly Beall is senior editor at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based graphic designer and writer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, and enjoys sharing her finds with others. When undistracted by great art and design, she can be found making a mess in the kitchen, consuming as much information as possible, or on the couch with her three pets. Find her @designcrush on social.
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