Located on Nyaya Marg Chanakyapuri, this elegant architectural gem is home to the Swedish Embassy of India, a country that offers a unique blend of architectural styles and artistic expressions. Inaugurated in November 1959 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and designed by Sune Lindström and Jöran Curman, this 9.846 acre site makes the most of its serene, leafy location.
In the aftermath of India’s independence, strong business and political ties developed between India and Sweden, with Alva Myrdal’s appointment as the first Women Ambassador to India. The complex houses the ambassador’s residence, staff housing, and recreational facilities with most of the furnishings and decorations designed and manufactured in Sweden, and a few items remain within their original contexts till date. With its unique, minimalistic details designed by Malene Bjorn, Sune Lindström’s Danish wife, the interior design of the space attracts the most attention. There is a distinct Scandinavian feel to the dining area with this long table by Malene Bjorn table and chair design by Austrian-Swedish designer Josef Frank. Using a restrained material palette with white and light pink for the exterior and white for the interior, makes for a warm, welcoming space overall.
In the main Residence and Deputy Head’s house are partially preserved original kitchen designs by Lars Ljunglöf and Hans Kempe. Having been restored and returned to its original position, the 1959 ‘Tulip’ round table designed by Finnish designer Eero Saarinen is the centerpiece of the Banqueting Hall.
Despite being designed 65 years ago, the furniture and the building still evoke a very contemporary feeling characterised by simple, minimalistic, clean lines. To truly appreciate the decoration, construction principles, and delicacy of Swedish furniture, one must experience this building in person
Ar. Kritika Juneja
Thus, the Embassy is an impressive example of timeless classic and minimalist Swedish design, combining the work of various designers and artists to produce something unique and distinctive.
