The 2024 edition of the Stockholm Furniture Fair unfolded as a celebration of community spirit, showcasing a fusion of culture and commerce. InteriorDaily had the privilege of attending the fair, where we witnessed a strong emphasis on sustainability and the rise of up-and-coming designers.
Take a look at InteriorDaily's photo report of the fair!
The Stockholm Furniture Fairs kicked off with a visit from State Secretary Håkan Jevrell, who works for Minister of Foreign Trade Johan Forsell. During a tour around the fair, he participated in a roundtable discussion on the importance of the furniture industry for Swedish exports.
'One thing is certain, the Swedish brand and image of Swedish products are very strong. Now it's up to us to prove that we can expand into more markets and reach more customers, and we aim to double in size within ten years,' Jevrell said.
A standout feature of this year's fair was the presence of Italian design studio Formafantasma as the Guest of Honour. Their installation, "Reading Room", situated at the entrance square, served as a testament to their dedication to research and innovation, setting an inspiring tone for the entire event.
Among the many highlights was the exhibition "Farming Architects" by Jordens Arkitekter, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable living through the integration of architecture and regenerative agriculture.
Numerous exhibitions tackled pressing contemporary issues such as forestry, local production, waste management, and evolving aesthetic perceptions. One such exhibition, "The Museum of Masonite" by Swedish studio Folkform, celebrated local craftsmanship at a time when small-scale industries face challenges. Visitors were treated to daily Sustainability Walk & Talks to highlight the importance of eco-friendly furniture.
Introducing new arenas like "New Ventures", the fair provided a platform for emerging designers reflecting evolving industry trends. First-time exhibitors such as Niko June, NM3, Gustaf Westman Objects, and Swedish Girls showcased their innovative creations, adding fresh perspectives to the event. The "Greenhouse" platform also highlighted up-and-coming designers. Each year design schools worldwide apply to participate in Greenhouse. This year's exhibitors comprised 32 designers and 22 design schools.
The fair also boasted three design bars – "The Yellow Thread", "The Greenhouse Bar" and "Surface Club" – each curated by prominent design studios. Surface Club in particular, focused on sustainability by utilising waste streams, featuring a mini-golf course and daily DJ performances.
Curated talks, part of the Stockholm Furniture Fair Talks program, featured renowned speakers including Patricia Urquiola, Faye Toogood, and Industrial Facility, offering insights into the latest design trends and innovations.
Take a look at the exhibitors we visited at the fair in our photo report!