Nordic Classicism

Simplified, light classicism of the 1920s – known abroad as Swedish Grace.

After the heavy brick of National Romanticism, Nordic architects turned to a light and simplified classicism. Their models were Gustavian architecture and Italian farmhouses. Smooth rendered façades, small windows and slender columns gave the buildings a calm, almost dreamlike dignity.

After the First World War, Nordic architects wanted something calmer than the heavy brick of National Romanticism. Many had travelled in Italy and been captivated by simple farmhouses and Renaissance churches. Gustavian architecture enjoyed a revival. The style was short-lived but well loved; abroad it was called Swedish Grace after the Swedish exhibit in Paris in 1925.

The Swedish 1920s are the heart of the style: Asplund’s City Library and Woodland Chapel, Tengbom’s Concert Hall and countless schools, housing blocks and municipal buildings across the country.