‘New’ Patterns from Josef Frank
Friday November 6, 2009
Today’s chew in the Swedish decor-blogosphere regards the release of two new (old!) Josef Frank textile patterns. The two topical patterns, Aramal and Ceylon, were created by Josef Frank in the 1940s and has never been in production – until now. Svenskt Tenn is in the process of pressing textile rolls that will be sold per meter for a price of approx. $185.


Press photos from Svenskt Tenn via Hemmariket.
Upper pic Aramal, bottom Ceylon. Now, what say you?
Personally I say the significance of the work of Josef Frank (and Estrid Ericson) in developing the Scandinavian style must be fully acknowledged, appreciated and admired. Josef Frank’s interior design philosophy is immortal. Second, I get allergic itches from the notion that having Josef Frank design in your home ensures and signals “good taste”. It is ok to feel aversion towards, or get dizzy or puke-ready by, the highbrowish patterns and upper-classy concept. There is no such thing as free-thinking! I think Aramal is too much, it wouldn’t even queue at the dentist’s!, but I can very well imagine Ceylon as clothing on a single chair or stool cushion…









I actually think both of them are quite messy – but they sure are original!
Well, I say even though I really am fond of Josef Frank’s designs and I would love to have a little bit in my possession … :), Aramals colors does not appeal to me so much. In Ceylon, the pattern itself feels not so smooth and the green leafes parties are taking over. In other words other patterns are my favorites.
Retro Design has already been done. I HATE JOSEF FRANK.