Insider's Guide

Östermalm, Stockholm

London-based interior designer Sarah Peake – renowned for her ‘classic with a twist’ style and bold use of colour – is currently working on a project in Stockholm and enjoying immersing herself in Sweden’s rich heritage of craftsmanship. From coveted rugs to antiques, Swedish design is shaped by a deep-seated appreciation for quality and detail. Here, Sarah reveals her favourite discoveries from Stockholm’s historic Östermalm district, a destination known for its exceptional makers and timeless style.

Curated by Studio Peake

Published 7 months ago

Warmth and character

Sarah loves the fresh, elegant colour of the work of Swedish textile designer Cathy Nordström, whose ‘Otto’ ottoman – a collaboration with vintage dealers Dusty Deco – features a nicely flat top perfect for adding a tray for a glass and book. Equally captivating is Skultuna, founded in 1607, known for its exquisite brass craftsmanship. Sarah particularly loves their decorative accessories, like this striking Rosett Candle Holder, for a brilliant modern take on the traditional, and a luxurious touch.

Cathy Nordström

Blanche Wallpaper – Mustard

£120

Cathy Nordström

Anna-Lisa Tobacco Cushion Cover

£145

Skultuna

Rosett Candle Holder

£183

Dusty Deco

Otto Large

£2,282

Dusty Deco

Arco Lounge Chair

£2,286

Skultuna

Karui Tray

£216

Weaving in the past

Founded in 1919 by Märta Måås-Fjetterström, MMF is at the pinnacle of Swedish craftsmanship. Known for its stunning rugs and tapestries, the studio stays true to Måås-Fjetterström’s vision to create Swedish rugs with artistic value. Each rug takes months to make, and Sarah loves that they celebrate their twenty skilled weavers, with the individual signature of the rug’s maker woven into each piece. For a smaller investment, MMF’s delicate tapestries are collectable as artworks, and bring gorgeous colour and texture to a room.

Märta Måås-Fjetterström

Vita Rutmattan

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Images: Scheme

Beauty and functionality

One of Sarah’s favourite stops in Östermalm is Sekelskifte, a must-visit for period hardware and architectural details. Meaning “Turn of the Century” in Swedish, it seamlessly blends heritage with modern functionality – an approach Sarah embraces in her own work. Equally inspiring is Svenskt Tenn, a cornerstone of Swedish interiors since 1924, famed for its bold textiles, elegant furniture, and decorative accessories – offering a masterclass in joy and warmth.

Märta Måås-Fjetterström

Crocus – Blue 32 X 41 CM

£2,998

Sekelskifte

Bellmansro – Wine Opener

£24

Svenskt Tenn

Sofa Liljevalchs

£16,820

Svenskt Tenn

Armchair 311

£1,575

Svenskt Tenn

Votive Candle Holder

£25

Svenskt Tenn

Cabinet 2192

£12,015

Rich heritage of artistry

Sarah is captivated by Niklas Runesson’s mirror, a striking example of sculptural carving that blends his third-generation woodworking heritage with an expressive touch. At CF Hill, one of Stockholm’s leading art spaces, she admires Liselotte Watkins’ multi-medium work in a muted palette. She loves the deep hues of Nordic Knots’ rugs and recommends Vandra for beautifully handwoven designs, crafted in natural materials in southern Ukraine. Modernity and Mille Notti also stand out, celebrating Sweden’s design legacy, from rare 20th-century finds to elegant pieces evoking a bygone era.

Niklas Runesson

Wobbly Spalted Birch Mirror

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CF Hill

Temperence – Liselotte Watkins

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Nordic Knots

Grand Deep Blue Plush Wool Rug

£395

Modernity

Easy Chair – Curt Björklund

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Mille Notti

Franca Side Table

£692