Over the past three decades, Pia Wallén has helped to shape perceptions of the Scandinavian aesthetic with her striking textile designs. In a rare visit to Wallén’s home and studio, accompanied by Bengt Thornefors and Nina Norgren of bedwear and furniture brand Magniberg, curator and art writer Saskia Neuman sits down to talk fashion, felt and friendship.
WORDS Saskia Neuman PHOTOGRAPHY Petter Lundgren
PIA WALLÉN
Swedish designer Pia Wallén is wary of the term icon, yet Magniberg co-founders Bengt Thornefors and Nina Norgren use the word liberally when describing their close friend, confidante and some-time mentor. She made a name for herself in the early 1990s with her own brand, creating delicate yet functional textiles such as the Crux blanket – a heavy lambswool and cashmere throw that fast became a staple in Nordic homes – along with felt products including slippers and bags, and robust yet elegant silver jewellery. Wallén’s approach to design is that of an artist to their practice, and her influence is far reaching – the designs in her signature felt material have become classics across the globe. Her milieu is that of functional modernism steeped in tradition by way of sustainable production.
A chance meeting led Wallén to Thornefors and Norgren, who express their appreciation for fashion, design and quality with every product they create for Magniberg. A friendship quickly developed between the three designers, and they meet often to talk about work and their personal lives, gaining new ideas and energy with every encounter.
When we meet in Wallén’s home and studio – a loft-like apartment overlooking an early 20th-century church in central Stockholm – a photo shoot has just finished, directed by Thornefors and Norgren. These images offer a rare and very personal glimpse into Wallén’s world that few get to experience. We join the designers to discuss their friendship, inspirations and unrealised projects.
THE NEW ERA You had a very prominent place in my upbringing Pia; I remember your Crux blanket vividly from my living room growing up. It was incredibly heavy.
PIA WALLÉN Well, it’s been around a long time… and it’s very heavy, two and a half kilos.
T–N–E How long ago did you make it?
PW I almost don’t want to think about it! It was 30, no, maybe 40 years ago.
BENGT THORNEFORS It’s iconic, you’re an icon.
PW Well, the blanket is one of my most important cornerstones.
T–N–E How did your friendship with Magniberg come about, and what does it mean to you Pia?
PW It began with Bengt. We had both made the journey from fashion to interior design, I think
