Norwegian design stole the show at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour during London Design Week this March, with activations and a dedicated pop-up ‘The Norwegian Boutique Bedroom’ curated by Hunting & Narud in partnership with leading Norwegian brands Eikund, Northern, Lundhs, Norsk Dun and Jensen Beds.
The elegant installation embodied enduring comfort, quality with sustainability, which is a constant dialogue rooted in Norway’s natural materials and collaborative spirit. Representatives from Eikund, Northern, Lundhs, Norsk Dun and Jensen Beds were present throughout the week educating passersby on their product portfolio and key influences on Norwegian design.
The display, located at Jensen Beds included Lundhs’ natural stone slabs which were artfully paired with Northern’s Buddy Wall Lamps adding an artful ambience to the space. Norsk Dun dressed the central Jensen Bed with their collection of bedding and pillows, creating an arrangement that visitors couldn’t help but interact with. The setting was surrounded by iconic designs including The Fluffy Lounge Chair from Eikund and the Valet Wall Drawer by Northern which truly brought the installation together and a highlight was the dramatic bespoke console table desk born from a partnership between Hunting and Narud (who curated the exhibition) and Lundhs, which highlighted both the material capabilities of Norway and the eloquence of Norwegian Design.
The installation was complemented by two panel discussions that illuminated the unique nuances of Norwegian design with brand ambassadors from Eikund, Lundhs, Northern and Norsk Dun. The first panel was hosted with Design Anthology UK magazine and editor in chief Elizabeth Choppin, led the conversation on what sets Norwegian Design apart from the Scandi pack and how it enhances modern living spaces. Material Matters hosted the second panel discussion which revolved around Norway’s sensitive approach to the use of materials in design, with Grant Gibson leading an exploration into how this sensitivity has developed due to a strong connection to nature and a firm commitment to longevity.
The Norwegian Boutique Bedroom successfully showcased the quality and design sensibilities of these prominent Norwegian brands, further solidifying the unique position of Norwegian design in the global landscape. Norwegian design is deeply rooted in its unique history and context and profound connection to its stunning natural environment which inspiring the use of honest, high-quality natural materials like timber and stone.
The practicalities of Norwegian life, shaped by its climate and dispersed communities, fostered a design sensibility that prioritizes functionality, comfort, and longevity, where objects are built to last and serve everyday needs. A strong cultural emphasis on the home as a central arena and the ingrained spirit of collaboration (“dugnad”) have cultivated a design ethos that is both deeply personal and communally minded. This rich tapestry of historical influences, environmental context, and cultural values has forged a distinctive and compelling Norwegian design tradition that continues to resonate globally. As the London Design Week showcase demonstrated, Norwegian design is not just about aesthetics, but a holistic approach that seamlessly blends innovation, sustainability, and cultural heritage.