Svenskt Tenn in Stockholm – Josef Frank's colorful design legacy

If you’re in Stockholm and love interior design, there’s one place you can’t miss – Svenskt Tenn. This iconic design store on Strandvägen is not just a place to shop, but a true Swedish design institution with roots dating back to the early 20th century. And at the heart of it all is Josef Frank – the visionary who brought life, color and pattern to Scandinavian interiors.

The story begins with tin

Svenskt Tenn was founded in 1924 by Estrid Ericson. Initially, it was mainly a pewter store (the word tenn tenn means “tin” in Estonian), but everything changed when Ericson hired Austrian architect and designer Josef Frank as a partner in 1934..

Frank fled Sweden after the Nazis came to power and found Svenskt Ten an opportunity to develop his ideas freely and boldly. His philosophy was the opposite of what we associate with “Scandinavian style” today – not minimalism and gray tones, but joy of life, colors, fabrics and natural motifs..

Svenskt Tenn- Josef Frank – LightConcept

Josef Frank's handwriting: patterns that speak volumes

Frank's fabrics and furniture are instantly recognisable. His patterns are inspired by the tropics, gardening, castles and nature – all combined with exotic and imaginative elements.

Svenskt Tenn still sells many of his original designs: curtain fabrics, cushion covers, furniture covers, table lamps and accessories. Each piece tells a story and adds personality to the interior.

Lights and shadows that tell a personal story

One of the most notable categories in Svenskt Tenn's range is undoubtedly lightingThese are not just practical lamps - each table lamp, floor lamp or pendant lamp is designed as an independent interior design element that can transform a room.

The abajurs deserve special attention – they are available in dozens of patterns and fabrics, most of them created based on drawings by Josef Frank. Classic prints, botanical motifs, tropical patterns or graphic shapes – all this makes choosing abajurs a real pleasure.

You can mix and match fabrics and legs to create your own unique look – matching the style of the room or adding unexpected contrast. For example, for a classic wooden table lamp, you can choose a shade with Frank’s colorful jungle pattern or a geometric, black and white design. The result is a unique light fixture that you won’t find in any regular store.

Svenskt Tenn also offers pendant lights and floor lamps, designed with the same principles: artistry, craftsmanship, high quality and timelessness. Each piece stands out as a piece of jewelry in a room – not just a light source, but an eye-catcher that speaks volumes about the owner’s taste and attitude towards design.

Svenskt Tenn – LightConcept

What awaits you in the store?

When you enter the design store at Strandvägen 5, you will find:

• several fully furnished rooms in the Frankish spirit
• unique fabric samples by the meter
• beautiful handmade interior elements
• timeless furniture collections
• an inspiring cafe with a sea view

Even if you don't plan to buy anything, this store is like a design museum where you can experience the diversity of Swedish aesthetics.

Svenskt Tenn – LightConcept

Why is it worth visiting Svenskt Tenn?

Svenskt Tenn not only represents the history of Swedish design, but also the idea that a home does not have to be sterile or perfect. Josef Frank's creations remind us that a home should be warm, personal and a little unexpected. This is a place where Scandinavian design meets creativity and vitality.

👉 Our selection includes various lighting solutions inspired by Swedish design classics - come take a look and find the light that suits your style!

Svenskt Tenn – LightConcept

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