Alf Svensson coffee table

This rare coffee table, designed by Alf Svensson and produced by Tingströms Möbler in Sweden, is a compelling example of mid-century Scandinavian design that skillfully balances refined materials, architectural form, and functional integrity. The table showcases Svensson’s nuanced design sensibility, marked by clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and a subtle interplay of textures.

The frame is constructed from richly figured rosewood, a material prized for its deep, reddish-brown hue and distinctive grain. The wood is finely finished, revealing the organic variation and luster that define its character. The rosewood’s warmth is contrasted strikingly by the tabletop, which is composed of a solid black slate slab. The slate offers a tactile, matte surface with natural veining and tonal depth, lending the piece a sculptural and monolithic quality.

Structurally, the table is reinforced by a refined cross-braced understructure—an elegant and functional solution that adds stability while contributing to the table’s visual lightness. The X-shaped stretcher, integrated with care into the lower frame, is a testament to Svensson’s precision and the high level of craftsmanship employed by Tingströms Möbler. This architectural detail anchors the design and enhances its overall compositional balance.

Alf Svensson (1929–1992) was a notable figure in Swedish postwar design, recognized for his versatile contributions to furniture, lighting, and interiors. His work often merged functionalist principles with a warmth and material richness that distinguished Scandinavian modernism from its more austere European counterparts. Collaborating with several prominent manufacturers, Svensson created pieces that remain celebrated for their lasting relevance and subtle elegance.

In excellent vintage condition, this coffee table retains its original components and finish. The slate top is well-preserved, free from significant chips or scratches, while the rosewood frame shows minor signs of age-appropriate wear, including a gentle patina that enhances its authenticity.

This table stands as a distinctive and collectible example of mid-century Swedish furniture design—bold in material contrast, restrained in form, and enduring in craftsmanship.