This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
When we delve into the world of Swedish furniture design and its evolution, few names stand out as prominently as Yngve Ekström. Born on June 16, 1913, in Hagafors, Småland, Yngve Ekström left an indelible mark on the world of furniture design, wood carving, sculpture, and architecture. His legacy is deeply intertwined with the Scandinavian Modernism movement, and his contributions continue to inspire designers and enthusiasts to this day.
The Evolution of Scandinavian Modernism
To understand Yngve Ekström’s significance, we must first consider the historical context. The mid-20th century saw a profound shift in design aesthetics, characterized by a desire for simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature. This was the essence of Scandinavian Modernism, a movement that sought to bring these principles into the realm of design.
In the aftermath of World War II, Scandinavia, including Sweden, rebuilt and redefined its identity. This period of transformation gave rise to a design philosophy that emphasized clean lines, organic forms, and the use of natural materials. Yngve Ekström was at the forefront of this movement, contributing significantly to its development.
The Iconic “Lamino” Armchair
One cannot discuss Yngve Ekström without mentioning his most famous creation, the “Lamino” armchair. Designed in 1956, this ergonomic masterpiece embodies the principles of Scandinavian Modernism. Its minimalist design, characterized by a sleek wooden frame and a sheepskin-covered seat, exudes both elegance and comfort.
The “Lamino” was not only visually striking but also incredibly functional. Its design considered the human body’s contours, ensuring a comfortable sitting experience. This chair was an instant success and has remained in continuous production since its inception, a testament to its timeless appeal.
In 1999, the influential Swedish magazine Sköna hem recognized the “Lamino” as the Swedish furniture design of the twentieth century, solidifying its status as an iconic piece of furniture.
Swedese: A Legacy of Collaboration
Yngve Ekström’s impact extended beyond his individual creations. He co-founded ESE-möbler, later renamed Swedese, alongside his brother Jerker and business partner Sven Bertil Sjöqvist. This furniture manufacturing company played a pivotal role in promoting Scandinavian design principles.
Ekström’s association with Swedese spanned over 40 years, highlighting his enduring commitment to the world of design. His collaboration with this company allowed his creations to reach a global audience, spreading the essence of Scandinavian Modernism far and wide.
Visual References
To appreciate Yngve Ekström’s work, one must visualize the warmth of the wooden frames in his furniture, the softness of the sheepskin on the “Lamino” armchair, and the overall sense of harmony and simplicity that pervades his designs. The color palette often includes earthy tones that evoke a connection to nature, and the textures are characterized by the natural grain of wood and the tactile quality of the materials used.
Åhrén, U. (2008). Modern Swedish Design: Three Founding Texts. United Kingdom: Museum of Modern Art. https://amzn.to/3OQB6SC
Brantmark, N. (2017). The Scandinavian Home: Interiors Inspired by Light. United Kingdom: Ryland Peters & Small. https://amzn.to/3UGvsq5
Eleish, R., Van Breems, E. (2013). Reflections on Swedish Interiors. Norway: Gibbs Smith, Publisher. https://amzn.to/48oS0Pa
Englund, M., Schmidt, C. (2017). Scandinavian Modern. United Kingdom: Ryland Peters & Small. https://amzn.to/48j4MPb
Ericson, E., Colletti, J., Tenn, S. (2017). Swedish Modern. United Kingdom: WW Norton. https://amzn.to/4bLHWTe
MacIssac, H., Bolander, L. (2010). Lars Bolander’s Scandinavian Design. United States: Harry N. Abrams. https://amzn.to/4bLIeti
Murphy, K. M. (2015). Swedish Design: An Ethnography. United States: Cornell University Press. https://amzn.to/3Q2bjr9
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