Norwegian design takes centre stage at London design week 2025

During London Design Week 2025, leading Norwegian design brands—Eikund, Jensen Beds, Lundhs, Northern, and Norsk Dun—came together to showcase what sets Norwegian design apart. Their installation, curated by multidisciplinary design agency Hunting & Narud, was held at the Jensen Beds showroom at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and featured a dynamic program of activities.

EXPLORING NORWEGIAN DESIGN: MATERIAL SENSIBILITIES AND INNOVATION

A key highlight was a panel discussion titled "Materials and Sensibilities in Norwegian Design", chaired by Grant Gibson, co-founder of Material Matters. The discussion explored the core philosophy and evolution of Norwegian design, featuring insights from:

• Jørgen Tengesdal, COO & Co-founder of Eikund
• Ben Ayling, Business Development Manager at Lundhs
• Michelle Alger, representing Northern
• Therese Haltuff, Head of International Business at Norsk Dun

CORE CHARACTERISTICS OF NORWEGIAN DESIGN

Norwegian design is deeply influenced by the country’s geography, climate, and cultural values. The panellists emphasised several defining traits:

• Longevity Over Trends: Norwegian designers reject fast fashion and disposable consumer culture, prioritising timeless design and enduring value.
• Community Spirit: The Norwegian ethos of "dugnad" (volunteer-driven cooperation) fosters collaboration over competition, a unique hallmark of the industry.
• Connection to Nature: Design decisions are influenced by Norway’s rugged landscape, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and simplicity.

HISTORICAL INFLUENCE AND NATIONAL IDENTITY

The panel traced Norwegian design heritage back to centuries of pragmatism and self-sufficiency. In Norwegian culture, the home is considered a sanctuary from harsh weather conditions—interiors must be comfortable, functional, and enduring. The discussion touched on 19th-century romantic nationalism, which sought to define Norwegian identity through nature, folklore, and heritage. This movement gained momentum before Norway's independence in 1905, shaping design principles that persist today.

A RENAISSANCE IN NORWEGIAN DESIGN: MATERIAL INTELLIGENCE AND GLOBAL EXPANSION

Norwegian design is experiencing a renaissance, distinguishing itself from broader Scandinavian aesthetics. At the heart of this resurgence is "material intelligence"—an expert understanding of materials, sustainability, and craftsmanship. The Norwegian government’s active support for design promotion has played a crucial role in helping Norwegian brands expand globally.

SUSTAINABILITY AS A CORE DESIGN PRINCIPLE

Sustainability is at the forefront of Norwegian design philosophy:

• Lundhs showcased their natural stone, highlighting its circular life cycle and multi-generational durability.
• Eikund emphasized their commitment to natural materials, traditional craftsmanship, and rediscovering iconic Norwegian design through their renowned "treasure hunt" for historic design drawings.
• Norsk Dun presented their eco-friendly down bedding, featuring their unique "egg to bed" sustainable certification system.
• Northern and Jensen Beds reiterated how material choices reflect both Norway’s rich design heritage and modern environmental responsibility.

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR NORWEGIAN DESIGN

Reflecting on the discussion, Grant Gibson remarked: “It was a fascinating session that covered everything from the sustainability of Norwegian stone and the country’s design legacy to the importance of its strong sense of community and environmental awareness. All set against the stunning backdrop of Hunting & Narud’s exhibition design in the Jensen Beds showroom. One thing became crystal clear—Norwegian design is thriving like never before.”