Overview
It sounds like a shopping trip but is really about Swedish design and its application in daily life.
The art of glass making came to Sweden later than in other European cities. It became popular as wealthy people began hiring glass blowers to create their vessels and often brought in artisans from Italy and Germany. As the popularity grew, more craftsmen becamse available, thus the pay was not the best. Swedish glass was not recognized until the second half of the 19th century when it began to be exported to different regions of the world. Yet it did only receive international acclaim from 1925 at the Paris World Fair.
The oldest existing glass works in Sweden are Kosta (established in 1742 and it has been considered the leader in glass making in the country) and Limmared (established in 1741).
Your experience will begin with a guided drive towards the districts of Normalm and Ostermalm, both Stockholm's most exclusive residential areas. You will visit the squares and here the history of the renowned Normalmstorg Square, the birthplace of the Stockholm Syndrome. From here continue to the pedestrian street Biblioteksgatan; Stockholm's most luxurious shopping street with exclusive Scandinavian and international brands. You will enjoy a stroll along the amazingly patterned and brilliantly
colored fabrics and beautiful furniture by Swedish-Austrian architect an Strandvägen and be impressed by beautiful buildings and amazing water views, before visiting the
renowned Svenskt Tenn; a classic interior design company with its flagship store on the beautiful shoreline boulevard. This sets the tone of the level of design that Sweden has reached. Actually people still make pilgrimages to the store on Strandvägen where designer Josef Frank's pieces are shown. The store has modern classics, a lovely gift department with glass, pottery, and objects by younger established designers.
As you continue towards the city center, you will make a stop for a visit to the Orrefors Kosta Boda Brand Store & Art Gallery. Enjoy the extraordinary exhibition on two floors which includes many of the world’s leading glass artists. Never has so much art glass been viewed in one place, so just let yourself be moved by the various artists’ individual expressions and techniques in relation to glass and crystal. Maybe you can even find a piece of art that speaks directly to you. Take advantage of
this opportunity to spice up your home or workplace.
Regardless of whether you make a purchase or not, you will leave feeling the accomplishments of Sweden in the international field of design!
- This tour has some easy walking so please dress comfortably.
- You will want your camera.
- Food, beverages, and gratuities are not included in the tour.
- Timing of the stops and the order of the stops may change as traffic can affect your experience.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 10:00 AM, duration: 3 hours
