Travel through the design districts

The Kingdom of Crystal is a relatively small area in Småland with a strong tradition of glassmaking. It is not one place on the map, but several small places in the countryside between Kalmar and Växjö. The glassworks are not that far from each other, but you still need a car to get around. Every year, over a million Swedish and foreign tourists visit the Kingdom of Crystal to visit the glassworks, exhibitions and to shop for glass.

On the way between the glassworks, you pass through the dense forests that once provided fuel for the furnaces and made glassmaking possible here. Glass has been produced here since 1742, and since then the craftsmen in the Kingdom of Crystal have gone from beginners to world-famous masters. At the peak of production, there were as many as 45 glassworks in the region. Today, there are not so many glassworks, but here there is an interesting mix of larger factories, such as Kosta glassworks, and smaller factories, which all inspire each other. The production also offers a good mix of art glass and utility glass.

When you go on a glassworks tour, you should make sure to visit at least one of the huts where visitors can come up close and see how the glass is made. In several places, you can even try blowing into the tube to shape the red glass mass yourself. It is both difficult and sweaty, and if you weren’t impressed by those who have mastered the technique before, you will definitely be after trying it. And of course, you get to take your work home with you as proof.

Furniture design has a similar position to glass in Småland’s craft tradition. Generations of Småland residents have carried on the tradition and the Furniture District has become a popular excursion destination in Småland.

Here, in the heart of the Swedish furniture industry, is a unique cluster of furniture companies, craftsmen and shops where quality and innovation are in focus. Värnamo and Lammhult are two of the most famous towns in the area, where you can visit iconic furniture stores, design exhibitions and factories that have shaped Swedish furniture history. From classic timeless furniture to modern design solutions – in the Fruniture District you will find inspiration for every home.

Värnamo has been a design destination for many years. One important reason is undoubtedly Bruno Mathsson, one of the 20th century’s great international names in furniture design. In the 1930s, Mathsson decided that new times required new ways of sitting. A large number of classic chairs were the result, and his functional approach to sitting, working and socializing eventually took the world by storm. Visit the Bruno Mathsson Center in Värnamo to learn more about the revolutionary design ideas and special lifestyle that made Mathsson famous. There are also interiors decorated with his creations.

Don’t miss Värnamo’s exciting art and design center, Vandalorum, located on the entrance to town. The red barns can be seen from afar and are constantly filled with interesting exhibitions by both local and international artists and designers.

There is more to see on a design journey through the Kingdom of Furniture. East of Värnamo lies Lammhult, a town known for its furniture shopping. The most well-known stores here offer an exclusive range and whether you are planning to buy something or not, it is a perfect place to fill up on inspiration.

Norrgavel makes furniture with a typical Nordic expression, inspired by Japanese tradition and American shaker. An interesting mix, with a strong philosophy behind the brand. Both production and store are located in Lammhult.

Svenssons in Lammhult is an icon of Swedish furniture design and has been a natural destination for interior design enthusiasts for over a century. With a carefully selected range of design classics and modern furniture, the store offers timeless quality and style. Here you will find furniture and interior design details from renowned brands such as Carl Hansen, String, Swedese and Bruno Mathsson. The store in Lammhult is an inspiring place where you can experience Swedish design up close, get expert advice and discover sustainable furniture solutions for your home.