Gemla Fabrikers, nestled in the idyllic Swedish village of Diö alongside the river Helgeå, boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Founded in 1861, Gemla holds the title of Sweden's oldest furniture manufacturer. However, its significance transcends mere longevity; Gemla has been instrumental in shaping the narrative of Swedish furniture design through its innovative approach to steam-bent woodcraft. We interview Gemla's owner Benny Hermansson to gain insight in the brand's journey and future.
Origins
The origins of Gemla date back to 1861, making it Sweden's oldest furniture manufacturer, Benny explains. 'At the end of 1890 the factory started working with bent wood, with the first chair leaving the factory in 1901. This means Gemla has been a bentwood producer for more than 120 years. It's said that more than 1500 different models have left the factory since then.' When craftsmen from Bohemia brought the expertise and techniques from Thonet's factories to Diö, they started the company's tradition of shaping wood. Gemla became the torchbearer of this tradition, evolving over the years to master the technique of bentwood production. 'Today we still have one co-worker who's great-grandmother arrived to Diö during these years,' says Benny.
Since its inception, Gemla has weathered numerous challenges, including factory fires and changes of ownership. Yet, amidst these trials, the company persevered, refining its craft and diversifying its product range. From chairs to even hockey sticks and tennis rackets, Gemla has demonstrated a remarkable ability to tame and shape wood into functional and aesthetic creations.
The GEMYT armchair.
Collaborations
Central to Gemla's success has been its approach to collaboration with designers and architects. 'Numerous architects have been involved in our work,' Benny says. 'Architects like Carl Bergsten, Uno Åhren, Sigurd Lewerentz, Gunnar Asplund and many others...'
The company prides itself on developing its range in close partnership with designers, ensuring that each product embodies the true essence of Gemla's DNA. 'We develop products in close collaboration with the designer. A good and positive connection is key to develop a good product. It is key that a new product fits into our collection. We also work hard to secure the comfort, the durability and the most beautiful handcrafted details.'
Sustainability lies at the heart of Gemla's ethos, permeating every aspect of its manufacturing process. The company's commitment to using renewable energy, FSC-certified wood, and environmentally friendly materials underscores its dedication to minimising its environmental footprint. Furthermore, Gemla's restoration and renovation services ensure that its chairs can be passed down through generations, further enhancing their longevity and sustainability. The company has been doing this since the early nineties and have more than 30 years of experience restoring furniture.
The ZINC bar stool and VIDE hangers.
Trade fairs and future plans
Recent participation at the Stockholm Furniture Fair showcased Gemla's latest offerings, including the bar chair ZINC, the armchair GEMYT, and a family of hangers, VIDE.
The new ZINC bar stool in solid ash, where each individual part is steam-bent from an originally straight piece of wood, is designed by Mathieu Gustafsson. The brand-new steam-bent wooden armchair GEMYT by Sami Kallio, features a strong backrest tray, which is sculpted from a single piece of solid steam-bent beech wood. Gemla also launched a new family of hangers in solid steam-bent beech wood, VIDE, designed by Malmö-based Javier Masa. The aim has been to complement the existing range of hangers with more functions in a contemporary look, suitable for hotel rooms and restaurants as well as the home space.
The fair provided an opportunity to connect with potential customers and receive valuable feedback on its products. 'There were fewer exhibitors and visitors than last year but a great spirit and many important business contacts. It felt like this new format was more inspiring and interesting than in the many years before,' Benny comments.
Looking ahead, Gemla aims to solidify its position as a leading craft company in the international hospitality arena, with aspirations to expand its reach across Europe, Asia, and the US. 'We can see a rapid growing interest in these areas and we would love to learn more from our customers and become even more relevant for the growing crowd of international customers. We are well on our way.'
The GEMYT armchair and ZINC bar stool.
Gemla will present its collections at Salone del Mobile.Milano next week 16-21 April, at Pavillion 24 | L07.
More information:
Gemla Fabrikers AB
Store Backegatan 2
343 71 Diö, Sweden
+46 476-214 00
[email protected]
www.gemlaab.se
Benny Hermansson
[email protected]
