Classic Collection is bringing its timeless Scandinavian design and a range of new products to this year’s Gothenburg Furniture Fair. Get to know one of this year’s exhibitors, best known for its sustainable and stylish rugs.
It’s early morning as sisters Katarina and Cecilia Dahlgren drive to Classic Collection’s headquarters and warehouse in Österhaninge, just outside Stockholm. Another sunny spring day awaits the two co-owners, with Katarina overseeing product development while Cecilia leads the company’s marketing efforts.
This year, Classic Collection celebrates 30 years in business. The company has built a strong reputation for its Scandinavian-designed rugs, cushion covers, and poufs.
“In the beginning, our founder Pierre worked mainly with exclusive hand-knotted rugs. But the market has evolved, and we’ve had to adapt our assortment and broaden our offering,” says Katarina.
Today, all products are still handmade in close collaboration with family-owned manufacturers in India. While production methods have modernised over the years, the company’s core philosophy remains unchanged.
“We create rugs with care for both people and the environment. Our rugs and textiles are designed to become part of a home’s story and to last for many years,” Katarina explains.
Before the pandemic, Classic Collection exhibited internationally at fairs including events in Paris. Over the past three years, however, the company has focused entirely on Gothenburg Furniture Fair.
They will return again this year as exhibitors and are looking forward to meeting customers from both Sweden and Norway.
“The fair is extremely important to us. Many of our customers operate physical retail stores, and a large number of those buyers attend the event,” says Katarina.
Cecilia adds:
“It’s the one time of the year when those of us working centrally get the opportunity to meet our customers in person.”
The entire Stockholm-based team will travel to Gothenburg and is looking forward to several inspiring days at the fair.
“It will also be great to reconnect with industry colleagues we’ve come to know through previous work and events,” Cecilia says.
This year, Classic Collection will present a range of new products.
“And there’s a lot of brown,” Katarina says with a smile. “We work almost exclusively with natural materials — nearly all our rugs are made from wool or sometimes jute.”
Working with natural and sustainable materials is not unique to Classic Collection. According to Katarina, it has been a clear trend across the industry for several years.
“We hardly work with synthetic materials at all. In terms of colours, we’re seeing a lot of brown, but also olive green and rust tones.”
Visitors to the fair can also expect a warm welcome from the Classic Collection team.
“Our products stand out a bit at the fair. There are many large furniture displays, while we bring textiles that create atmosphere and bring a room together,” says Cecilia.
Explore the Classic Collection range at classiccollection.se.