The workspace then & now

Estrid Ericson's office isn’t an ordinary workspace but rather an artist's studio. An inspiring place where she planned exhibitions, interiors and upcoming launches together with the architect and designer Josef Frank. She worked at a desk with a linoleum board, a durable surface that could stand all types of creative work.

Today, contemporary echoes of the workspace are regularly created downstairs in the store, with Josef Frank's timeless desks, chairs and interior accessories.

Josef Frank enjoyed designing desks and spaces for writing. Whether it was a magnificent mahogany desk or a small desk for a little, creative workplace, he often used organic forms to enhance the table’s natural wood surface. He created the 980 desk in conjunction with New York World’s Fair in 1939 where Svenskt Tenn’s studio became a great success with innovative and different designs.

Estrid Ericson worked surrounded by personal, cherished belongings such as shells, sculptures, Asian porcelain, beads, jewellery, stacks of newspaper clippings and graphic sheets. Her collections inspired her both privately and at work.

At 83 years of age, Estrid Ericson wrote in a letter: “I am like the old woman who didn’t want to die until she had cleaned the attic. I don't want to give up until all the unregistered stuff I've collected in my room for over 50 years have transformed into something sellable.”