City Essays: Graceful Foundations

As we unveil the Gild collection, a series of hand-knotted rugs inspired by Swedish Grace, we invite you to explore some of Stockholm’s most iconic architectural treasures from this era. Swedish Grace, which flourished in the 1920s and 1930s, represented a modern yet timeless take on neoclassicism, merging classical harmony with a restrained modernism. It was an era of creative breakthroughs in art and design, where artisans like Carl Malmsten and architects such as Gunnar Asplund embraced simplicity and refinement. This movement left a lasting imprint on the city's skyline, where the calm elegance of its designs can still be seen today, inspiring generations ahead.

STOCKHOLM'S STADSBILIOTEKET; GUNNAR ASPLUND, 1928

Stockholm’s Stadsbiblioteket, The City Library, completed in 1928, was designed by renowned Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund. A prime example of Nordic Classicism, particularly the Swedish Grace movement, the library blends neoclassical formality with modern simplicity. Its iconic cylindrical rotunda remains a striking feature of Asplund’s architectural vision.

STOCKHOLM'S CONCERT HALL; IVAR TENGBOM, 1926

Konserthuset, Stockholm’s Concert Hall, completed in 1926, stands as one of the finest examples of Swedish Grace architecture. Designed by Ivar Tengbom, its clean lines, harmonious proportions, and restrained ornamentation reflect the movement's blend of classical elegance and modern simplicity. The iconic blue façade and grand colonnade create a striking cultural landmark, while its interior spaces were crafted to echo this same timeless refinement. As both a visual and cultural symbol, Konserthuset remains a key representation of Swedish Grace’s enduring influence on architecture and design.

SKOGSKYRKOGÅRDEN; GUNNAR ASPLUND & SIGURD LEWERENTZ, 1917-1940

Skogskyrkogården was designed by Swedish architects Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz between 1917 and 1940. Renowned for its unique blend of modernist architecture and natural landscape, the cemetery is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. Its minimalist structures, open spaces, and integration with the surrounding pine forest reflect a departure from classical Swedish Grace, embracing a more modern, Nordic Classicism style. The site emphasizes simplicity, tranquility, and harmony with nature, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

MILLESGÅRDEN; CARL MILLES, 1936

Millesgården is a remarkable sculpture park and art museum dedicated to the works of Carl Milles, a prominent Swedish sculptor. Established in 1936, it was originally the residence and studio of Milles and his wife, Olga. The park integrates art, architecture and nature with terraces, fountains and classical sculptures overlooking the water. Millesgården reflects Milles’ fascination with classical mythology and monumental forms, showcasing his distinctive style of dynamic, often airborne figures. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural and artistic destination, preserving the legacy of one of Sweden’s most esteemed artists.

STOCKHOLM CITY HALL; RAGNAR ÖSTBERG, 1923

Stockholm's Stadshuset, the City Hall, finished in 1923 is a monumental showcase of Swedish Grace architecture, merging national romanticism with neoclassical elements. Conceived by Ragnar Östberg, the building’s red brick exterior, towering spire and golden accents express a harmony of classical and medieval design features. Stadshuset’s interiors, including the grand Blue Hall and Golden Hall, display the movement’s focus on simplicity, elegance and masterful craftsmanship. As one of Stockholm's most famous landmarks, it embodies the Swedish Grace ideal of balancing tradition with modernity.

Photography by Lamia Karic, Stockholm, 2024.