Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist daybed

The Lustgården daybed, designed by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist and produced by Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) in Sweden, is a rare and refined example of Scandinavian mid-century design that combines soft modernism with sculptural elegance. Part of Hörlin-Holmquist’s celebrated Lustgården (Garden of Eden) series, the daybed embodies her distinctive aesthetic—romantic, humanistic, and modern in spirit.

The daybed features a gently curved backrest that flows seamlessly into the side frame, creating an inviting and fluid silhouette. This curved line, paired with the low profile and elongated proportions, offers a sense of serenity and poise, making the piece suitable for both lounging and display. The design balances architectural clarity with feminine softness, characteristic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s work, which often eschewed stark minimalism in favor of approachable, organic forms.

The frame is constructed from dark-stained beech, lending visual weight and a refined contrast to the light-toned upholstery. The beechwood structure is robust yet elegantly tapered, particularly at the legs, which are subtly splayed to provide stability while maintaining a light visual footprint. The dark finish enhances the wood’s natural grain and anchors the overall composition with quiet sophistication.

Upholstered in a crisp white bouclé fabric, the daybed has been recently and meticulously reupholstered, preserving the integrity of the original design while offering a fresh, tactile surface. The texture of the bouclé complements the smooth contours of the frame, adding depth and comfort to the visual experience. The upholstery is expertly tailored, with clean edges and precise seams that underscore the quality of the restoration.

Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist (1925–1997) was one of Sweden’s most important female designers of the mid-20th century. Her collaborations with NK produced several iconic seating collections that emphasized comfort, grace, and a modern interpretation of classic forms. The Lustgården series, to which this daybed belongs, is especially revered for its poetic design language and its enduring contribution to the Scandinavian modern canon.

In excellent restored condition, this daybed maintains the authenticity of its original materials and proportions, while benefiting from careful conservation and high-quality upholstery work. It is a rare and collectible work that exemplifies the best of Swedish design—elegant, functional, and enduringly beautiful.