The short story of the String shelf
The String shelf was created in 1949. The time had come for prosperity, and the consumer society was rearing its ugly head. The Bonnier publishing company notes, however, that the majority of Swedes do not have a library: not great for selling books! She then launched a design competition, with precise criteria. Designers will have to offer a shelf within reach of all wallets, easy to assemble and transport. Nisse and Kajsa Strinning won the competition with the String shelving system.
The String shelf not only ticks all the boxes of the criteria imposed by Bonnier: it is also perfectly in tune with the times! At the dawn of the 1950s, new materials emerged. The furniture is more sober and, above all, more functional. This is the golden age of Scandinavian design, launched by the H55 exhibition – within which we of course find the creation of the Strinning couple.
Over the next two decades, the String shelf was one of the best-sellers of Nordic furniture, and can even be found in the UN offices in New York.
Although String entered the permanent collection of the Swedish National Museum in 1979, it ceased to be produced for many years. It was reborn in 2004. For the occasion, Nisse Strinning imagined String Pocket – a miniature version which largely contributes to the return to favor of its iconic shelving system.
Benefiting from new technologies, the String system is now installed outdoors – where it offers plenty of storage space for gardening or DIY enthusiasts… or even foodies who enjoy simmering delicious dishes in their outdoor kitchen!
How to adopt the String shelf at home?
Freestanding shelves, wall uprights, boxes, but also hooks, storage bins or even magazine shelves or plate holders: the String system remains one of the most complete solutions on the market for creating tailor-made storage. Available in sober or colorful versions, String adapts not only to all rooms in the house, but also to all decors. Suffice to say that the possibilities for adopting it are endless!
First step to adopt String at home: start by choosing the format. The small Pocket model is ideal for small spaces, and can be used, for example, to create a small living room with a library area. Offered in 3 heights (85 cm, 115 cm and 200 cm), the original system is ideal for creating a large storage unit such as a dressing room or an office-library.
White and black are safe options for having storage that will resist all trends.
A simple structure is all the more interesting because you just need to install a few wooden or colored elements to give it a makeover.
A fan of colorful interiors? If the design is sober, String is not afraid to be imaginative! To stick with trends, dare to wear limited editions!
Nothing is more frustrating than having wasted space in a corner or under a staircase, when you lack storage at home. Infinitely modular, String is a ready-made solution for exploiting delicate spaces.
Ultra-functional, the String shelving system is one of the essentials for creating an entrance hall or dressing room.
Workshop or office for teleworking: String has all the elements to create a comfortable and functional workspace. The Works collection also includes elements specifically designed for this use.
String owes its success in part to its flexibility. This solution allows you to be creative, by opting for a linear vertical or horizontal composition, or by creating a more dynamic asymmetrical composition.
A perfect alternative to the traditional sideboard, String finds its place in the living room as well as in the dining room.
Optimize space in a very small bathroom? This is a mission that fits perfectly with String!
The String shelf is scalable. It can therefore accompany your child from their baby’s room to their teenager’s room! To help the little ones gain independence, we first place storage such as the wardrobe bar at the very bottom, so that they are accessible. Over time, just add things like the desktop.
If you have a swimming pool or jacuzzi, the outdoor version of String allows you to have your essentials within reach.
An emblematic creation of the 50s, the String shelf finds its natural place in the Mid Century interior.
In black or galvanized finish, String adds a decidedly industrial touch to your kitchen decor.
With its minimalist look, the shelving system easily adapts to a neo-Scandinavian or organic interior. Simply choose wooden accessories or a natural color like beige or brown.