When it comes to interior design, the contrast between Scandinavian and French styles is often seen as a dichotomy. However, upon closer inspection, these seemingly disparate design philosophies share a surprising amount of common ground. Both embrace a certain nonchalance and, more importantly, a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, quality, and longevity. It's this shared value system that makes the opening of Scandinavian design house Veermakers' first permanent showroom in Paris' Marais district so intriguing.
Veermakers, founded in 2017 by Louise Liljencrantz, specializes in made-to-order furniture, lighting, and objects that embody timelessness and authenticity. Each piece is meticulously designed by Liljencrantz and crafted by master cabinetmakers and skilled artisans in the brand's workshops in Stockholm and Fiskars, Finland. This attention to detail and craftsmanship is a key aspect of Veermakers' identity, and it's a value that resonates deeply with the Parisian design scene.
"Paris has always been incredibly inspiring to me—there is such a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, culture, and timeless design, which feels very aligned with Veermakers," says Liljencrantz. This alignment is what led to the decision to open a showroom in the heart of Paris, a move that felt more like a natural progression than an expansion strategy.
The new showroom is an immersive experience, combining furniture, architecture, and art in an environment that feels like a hybrid between a gallery and a private residence. Open by appointment, it presents the entire Veermakers universe for the first time, alongside rotating exhibitions and new product launches. The space is designed to feel lived-in, with a calm backdrop that allows the pieces to speak for themselves without any distractions.
"We never wanted to create a traditional showroom, because furniture is best understood in a real setting," Liljencrantz explains. "I wanted people to experience the pieces as they would at home, surrounded by art, books, and everyday life. The most memorable interiors always feel personal rather than staged, and that was important to us."
The Marais was chosen as the ideal setting for this showroom due to its unique blend of history and creativity. It's a neighborhood that feels authentic and constantly evolving, with galleries, ateliers, and independent fashion houses coexisting with centuries-old architecture. This dynamic environment provides the perfect backdrop for Veermakers' signature designs, such as the SSU coffee table in solid walnut, the MAR dining table with its mirror-like, high-gloss finish, and the SKS side table in hand-carved mahogany.
In addition to these iconic pieces, the showroom introduces several new additions to the collection, including the Yoshino wall lamp, the Hoovs side table, and Set, Veermakers' first upholstered dining chair. Other recent additions include the Reed library table and Pin console, as well as lighting and objects that complete the brand's unique universe.
A bespoke kitchen and built-in sofa add to the showroom's seamless, lived-in feel, while an exhibition of oil-on-canvas interpretations of the Swedish archipelago by Swedish artist LG Lundberg further enhances the sense of intimacy and connection to the brand's Scandinavian roots. Liljencrantz's admiration for Lundberg's work is evident, as she notes the quiet depth and compatibility of his paintings with the atmosphere and design of the showroom.
"I've always been drawn to the meeting point between [Scandinavian and French design]," says Liljencrantz. "Combining Scandinavian clarity with the warmth, richness, and effortless elegance that French interiors do so well." This fusion of design traditions is what makes Veermakers' Parisian showroom so captivating, offering a unique and inspiring experience that blends the best of both worlds.
The opening of Veermakers' showroom in the Marais is a testament to the power of shared values and the beauty that arises when two design cultures come together. It's a space that invites visitors to explore, appreciate, and be inspired by the fusion of craftsmanship, quality, and timeless design.
