Åke Axelssonb. 1932
Åke Axelsson (b. 1932) is one of Sweden’s most respected furniture designers and interior architects, with a career spanning more than six decades. A central figure in Swedish modernism, Axelsson has consistently created furniture and interiors that balance functionality, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.
From the beginning of his career, Axelsson emphasised simplicity, ergonomics, and sustainability, principles that remain at the heart of his design philosophy. He frequently works with natural materials such as solid wood, using traditional techniques to highlight their inherent qualities. The result is furniture that is not only durable and functional but also designed to age gracefully, gaining character over time.
In addition to his furniture, Axelsson has contributed extensively to interior architecture, designing spaces for libraries, public institutions, and cultural venues across Sweden. These projects reflect his holistic approach, where interiors and furniture come together to create harmonious, people-focused environments.
Over the decades, Axelsson has become a leading voice in discussions on sustainable design, advocating for craftsmanship and long-lasting materials as alternatives to mass production. Today, his work is celebrated both in Sweden and internationally, admired for its ability to unite Scandinavian design traditions with a modern understanding of human needs.
