Bruno Mathsson
Bruno Mathsson (1907–1988) was a Swedish furniture designer and architect, internationally renowned for his innovative and ergonomic designs. He was born in Värnamo, Småland, into a family where his father was a skilled carpenter. It was in the workshop where he grew up that Bruno developed his interest in craftsmanship and design.
Mathsson was a pioneer of modernism and functionalism in Sweden. He became fascinated by seating furniture early on and began experimenting with bent wood to create chairs that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also adapted to the natural forms of the human body. This led to the development of some of his most iconic furniture pieces, such as the armchairs "Eva," "Pernilla," and "Jetson." His works are characterized by simple lines, lightness, and a natural design language that is both elegant and comfortable.
In addition to furniture design, Mathsson also made significant contributions to architecture. He advocated for the use of large glass panels in homes to integrate indoor spaces with the surrounding nature, a concept that became particularly prominent in his so-called "glass houses." This idea reflected his view of design as something that should harmonize with human needs and their environment.
Bruno Mathsson's work gained international attention during the 1930s, especially after his furniture was exhibited at the World Fair in Paris in 1937. He became a central figure in Swedish modernism, and his furniture was exported to several countries, where it was quickly appreciated for its simplicity and functionality.
Mathsson remained active in design and architecture throughout his life. His work lives on as classics, and his influence on Scandinavian design is immeasurable. Bruno Mathsson is a name that will forever be synonymous with Swedish design history.
Mathsson was a pioneer of modernism and functionalism in Sweden. He became fascinated by seating furniture early on and began experimenting with bent wood to create chairs that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also adapted to the natural forms of the human body. This led to the development of some of his most iconic furniture pieces, such as the armchairs "Eva," "Pernilla," and "Jetson." His works are characterized by simple lines, lightness, and a natural design language that is both elegant and comfortable.
In addition to furniture design, Mathsson also made significant contributions to architecture. He advocated for the use of large glass panels in homes to integrate indoor spaces with the surrounding nature, a concept that became particularly prominent in his so-called "glass houses." This idea reflected his view of design as something that should harmonize with human needs and their environment.
Bruno Mathsson's work gained international attention during the 1930s, especially after his furniture was exhibited at the World Fair in Paris in 1937. He became a central figure in Swedish modernism, and his furniture was exported to several countries, where it was quickly appreciated for its simplicity and functionality.
Mathsson remained active in design and architecture throughout his life. His work lives on as classics, and his influence on Scandinavian design is immeasurable. Bruno Mathsson is a name that will forever be synonymous with Swedish design history.