Craft, care and attention to detail are synonymous with the Swedish approach to product design. Volvo’s ongoing journey towards a new era of design and technology keeps these Scandinavian qualities close, and nowhere is this better exemplified than through the materials, forms and processes that have gone into its triptych of cutting-edge concept cars.
Robin Page, Volvo’s interior design director, joined the company after playing a major role in some of the world’s most luxurious automotive brands. Page understands the importance of materials, quality and detail in conveying a premium feel. His task, has been to showcase the company’s new design language through forms, materials and colours, working closely with Volvo’s colour and material design manager, Cecilia Stark.
Together with Stark and the rest of his team, he has integrated the very best of Swedish craftsmanship with Volvo’s new architectural approach. Wallpaper* and Volvo travelled to the heart of Sweden’s traditional industries, visiting manufacturers who have brought their decades of experience to Volvo’s new interiors.
Kasthall, for example, has been making rugs, carpets and curtains for over 120 years, weaving rich patterns and innovative textures and working with some of the world’s best architects and designers. Stark sought out the brand to help shape a new form of interior carpet for Volvo’s new ES Concept Estate. Orrefors/Kosta Boda, meanwhile, a historic glassmaker that is synonymous with delicate craft and innovation, was enlisted for the car’s crystal gear knob.
‘Volvo is moving towards a truly unique design language,’ Page explains, ‘reinforcing its strong identity. Our close relationship to Sweden’s traditional crafts are a vital part of this journey.
Robin Page, Volvo’s interior design director, joined the company after playing a major role in some of the world’s most luxurious automotive brands
Page understands the importance of materials, quality and detail in conveying a premium feel
His task, has been to showcase the company’s new design language through forms, materials and colour working closely with Volvo’s colour and material design manager, Cecilia Stark
Wallpaper* and Volvo travelled to the heart of Sweden’s traditional industries, visiting manufacturers who have brought their decades of experience to Volvo’s new interiors
Together with Stark and the rest of his team, he has integrated the very best of Swedish craftsmanship with Volvo’s new architectural approach
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