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With creations such as Farmor, Samsas and Herrgården, Carl Malmsten has cemented his reputation as one of Sweden's most cherished designers of all time. His work has graced iconic interiors like the Stockholm Concert Hall and the Matchstick Palace, and his chairs provide the seating for Stockholm’s City Council in the Council Chamber at Stockholm City Hall. Above all, Malmsten’s timeless design classics adorn Swedish homes from north to south.
Carl Malmsten sitting comfortably on "Lilla Åland" © Stiftelsen Siv & Carl Malmstens Minne
Every Day Design
With its sleek and elegant design, Malmsten is often associated with the movement now known as Swedish Grace or Nordic Classicism. His philosophy championed craftsmanship accessible to the wider public, ensuring that his furniture remained affordable. The crown jewel in Carl Malmsten's extensive collection of design treasures is the spindle-back chair Lilla Åland. This simple, meticulously crafted, and comfortable piece has captivated design enthusiasts since its debut in 1942. With its unembellished form and precisely turned spindles, it exudes both stability and refinement. Modesty in all its greatness.
Why is it called "Lilla Åland"?
The idea for iconic chair came to Carl Malmsten in 1938 during a woodworking course he held at Finström Church on Åland, Finland. Inside the church were several hand-turned spindle chairs crafted by local carpenters, which greatly impressed Malmsten. He sketched them, made a few adjustments to suit his taste, and thus Lilla Åland was born. Production began at Stolfabrik AB in Smålandsstenar, now known as Stolab, and the rest is history. Today, Lilla Åland is Malmsten's most beloved and best-selling piece, available in oak and birch.
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