Swedish rug and design brand LAYERED was founded in 2015, and has grown into a fashionable, playful company known largely for their high quality rugs. Their focus on quality and long-term sustainability has served them well and making them a design brand to watch. LAYERED collaborates with small, family-owned weaving mills that have a long and proud tradition of specific craftsmanship; all of their rugs are handmade.
LAYERED’s latest collection, Röllakan, looks back at the traditional craftsmanship of Swedish female textile designers, bringing a sense of history and folk-art to these pieces.
We spoke with Creative Director and CEO Malin Glemme, who guides the creative vision and strategic direction of the brand, about Röllakan and why the collection is an important step for LAYERED:
Tell us about Layered. What is the mission of the brand and how would you describe the brand’s aesthetic?
At LAYERED, our mission is to create interior design pieces that fuse contemporary boldness with timeless craftsmanship. We celebrate the rich traditions of Scandinavian design while pushing the boundaries through innovative interpretations.
Our aesthetic combines modern minimalism with artistic expression, characterized by striking patterns, rich textures, and a deep commitment to sustainability. Our products feel both timeless and relevant, made to be cherished across generations.
How does Layered fit into the textile history of Sweden? How do you see yourself growing in the coming years?
LAYERED seeks to honor and revitalize Sweden’s rich textile heritage by drawing on traditional craftsmanship, such as the Röllakan technique, and giving it a contemporary twist.
We see ourselves as a bridge between the past and the future—preserving the essence of Swedish textile history while innovating with new designs and sustainable practices.
Looking ahead, we plan to expand our global presence while continuing to explore new collaborations and design techniques that align with our commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability.
Let’s talk about the Röllakan collection! What was the inspiration for this collection, and how would you describe the designs and colors?
The Röllakan collection was inspired by the traditional Swedish Röllakan rugs, which have deep roots in Scandinavian craftsmanship. We’re highlighting the beautiful design language that has made female textile artists like Märta Måås-Fjetterström and Barbro Nilsson renowned. We wanted to celebrate the Röllakan technique, which has gained recognition and demand worldwide.
We created a harmonious blend of historical influences with contemporary design. The color palette is rich and intense, featuring deep reds, blues, ochres, and greens, balanced by natural tones like undyed white wool. These colors mark a shift from softer pastels, reflecting a desire for more depth and vibrancy in our designs.
What was the design process for this collection like?
The design process for the Röllakan collection was rooted in research and a reverence for tradition. We began by drawing inspiration from renowned Swedish textile artists and then developed a more modern and bolder color palette to further evolve the expression.
We started by studying Röllakan rugs, analyzing their patterns, colors, and craftsmanship. From there, we reimagined these elements through a modern lens, focusing on creating designs that would feel both timeless and relevant today.
It was important for us to honor the traditional weaving techniques, so we worked closely with skilled artisans to ensure that each rug embodies the quality and detail that Röllakan is known for.
Throughout the process, we remained committed to sustainability, using 100% wool and durable materials that align with our values.
Who are some of the female Swedish textile designers that you’re paying homage to? What is it about their work that excites you?
The Röllakan collection pays homage to the countless unnamed women who historically crafted these rugs in their homes, as well as to pioneering female textile artists like Märta Måås-Fjetterström and Barbro Nilsson. These women were trailblazers in their field, creating works that were not only artistically innovative but also deeply connected to Swedish cultural identity.
What excites us most about their work is their incredible ability to create designs that stand the test of time across generations. Their craftsmanship and artistic vision have a lasting impact, and we are inspired by how their designs continue to resonate today.
How do you see people living with these rugs? How would you like them to feel when they see them in their homes? Can you give some styling or interior design advice for how to integrate these rugs?
We hope that these rugs become enduring pieces in people’s homes, much like the traditional Röllakan rugs have been for generations. Our aspiration is for them to be cherished across different eras and styles.
These rugs are versatile and can be beautifully integrated by mixing them with various design periods, creating a unique blend of old and new. For styling, don’t be afraid to mix different styles and epochs; these rugs work well with both contemporary and vintage furniture.
For people who perhaps haven’t thought about having rugs in their home, what do you think they should know or consider? What’s a good starting point for including rugs in your home interior?
Rugs can completely transform a room, adding warmth, texture, and defining areas within an open space. Whether you’re starting with a small accent rug or a statement piece, the right rug can tie a room together and create a cohesive, inviting atmosphere.
It’s important to consider the size, material, and placement to ensure it complements your interior. A rug should have a strong identity and be a statement both when it comes to expression and size. If you have a big space, try placing the furniture in the middle of the room instead of up against the wall. A bigger rug then becomes a nice centerpiece with all furnitures placed inside the rug. so that all the furniture is inside the edge of the rug.
Find out more about LAYERED‘s Röllakan collection, launching 12th September.