Sami Kallio (1975) 

Sami Kallio is an award-winning Finnish-Swedish designer with a studio in Gothenburg, established in 2011. Growing up in Sweden, he developed a natural appreciation and respect for wood – the material that has historically dominated Scandinavian design and plays a central role in his work. His goal is to ensure sustainability and accessibility for the public through his designs. 

His training as a cabinetmaker gave him a deep understanding of traditional techniques such as woodturning and mould pressing, which he combines with a modern industrial aesthetic. Kallio’s design philosophy is based on the interplay between craftsmanship and machine production, where modern manufacturing methods merge with traditional woodworking to create a harmonious balance between past and present. 

Sami Kallio has collaborated with several renowned brands and is particularly known for his "In Between" collection for the brand &Tradition. The collection, which includes chairs and tables, reflects his craftsmanship, where moulded veneer and turned solid wood interact to create a sophisticated balance between elegance and visual impact. "In Between" has become a modern classic and is a clear example of Kallio’s ability to design furniture that unites aesthetics and functionality. 

One of Kallio’s latest projects is the Empire Chair, designed exclusively for Nordiska Galleriet and the brand NO GA. The chair is inspired by 1920s architecture and combines elegant lines with sustainable materials. It is made from FSC-certified solid ash and features a seat woven from cotton and polyester yarn, resulting in a balance between comfort and durability. The Empire Chair is stackable and available in several finishes, making it a flexible choice for both private and public spaces. 

Through his work, Sami Kallio continues to explore and innovate Nordic design, with a keen sense of harmony between materials, form, and function. His furniture captures the essence of Scandinavian minimalism while offering a unique character and durability for future generations.