Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern Paradiset Sofa by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist for Nordiska Kompaniet, 1950s

This Paradiset sofa from the Triva collection was designed by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmqvist in 1958 and manufactured by Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) in Sweden. The characteristic Hörlin-Holmqvist legs are made of beech wood. The seat is upholstered in an original, brown velour material. Organic shapes are significant to the work of this fantastic designer from the Mid-Century Modern era. It is a perfect example of how classic lines have been combined with modern design: rounded, modernist form, typical of Holmqvist designs, stylish button upholstery and wooden base. Elegant arches, curves, protruding backrest and armrest create a sculptural design mood.

Kerstin H. Holmquist created a collection of upholstered pieces for NK – Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-57. She was employed at NK Triva, a furniture workshop and architect studio where she created a collection for one of her many exhibitions: the lounge chair Eva and later its masculine counterpart Adam. To compliment the two she later created the Paradiset Sofa and also a foot stool – the Fig Leaf. The Swedish modernist architect and furniture designer Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist hails from a strong early-century generation of Scandinavian female furniture designers.

The sofa is in original vintage condition with normal traces of time and original upholstery. The seat is at a height of 40 cm.