The homecoming of Hem, an international design brand with its roots in Sweden (it was initially launched as One Nordic), is a gilt-edged affair. The brand, which operates under the catch-phrase “every product has a story”, is a new tenant in one of the city’s most eye-catching buildings of recent years – the gold plated Sven-Harry’s Konsthall – after having spent several years abroad. A designated space in the art museum now houses Hem’s head office, design department and showroom. The brand’s CEO is design entrepreneur Petrus Palmér, part of the original Form Us With Love crew
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Although Hem’s line of products are now physically available to Swedish design lovers, the brand’s original ethos – to be the natural design choice for a generation that grew up with the internet – lives on, as it will continue showcasing and selling its goods online as well. After all, the US, the UK, Germany and France are key markets for the design brand.
In time for the Stockholm opening, Hem is introducing several new products. Teaming up with Gothenburg-based designer Staffan Holm, Hem has launched the “Udon Chair”, an updated take on the classic bistro chair constructed using simple yet sturdy joints. Available in black, brown, green, blue and natural, the chair is made of beech wood.
“‘Udon Chair’ is the result of a long and exciting process in which Hem and I have had plenty of time to develop the chair down to the very last detail. Hem and I are equally nerdy when it comes to small details, giving us the chance to perfect the chair during the last two years,” says Holm.
Following the success of the ‘Stripe’ throw, Milan-based, Central Saint Martins College-trained fashion designer Arthur Arbesser is back with a rug on the same theme. It comes in several colours and is produced from 100 per cent wool by a family business in India, and is inspired by contemporary architecture in its design.
Last but not least is the ‘Hide Side Table’, conceived by independent German designer Karoline Fesser. The powder-coated steel cylindrical table has a simple form, yet serves several purposes. Its body will conceal whatever you want to stow away, or function as a display when rotated.
Words: Micha Van Dinther & Magnus Wittbjer
