Ulrika Ruding on the Art of Discovering the Next Design Classic
After more than four decades in the auction world, she knows that true expertise cannot be googled. It resides in the hands, in the eye – and in the sensitivity to people’s stories.
As Head of Design at Stockholms Auktionsverk, Ulrika Ruding has spent 41 years identifying, appraising, and selling some of the Nordic region’s most significant design objects. Thousands of pieces have passed through her hands: modern furniture classics, unique originals, and sometimes forgotten masterpieces. Her curiosity remains undiminished.
“I never tire of objects. Every piece carries a story,” she says.
The Specialist Profession – A Craft
Working as a design specialist is a craft in the truest sense. The ability to distinguish originals from copies, to interpret materials, colour, form, and manufacturing methods, is knowledge built over decades of experience.
“The expertise is in the hands and the eyes. In everything I’ve seen, felt, and compared over the years.”
Provenance – an object’s history and context – is often decisive. Through research in literature and archives, and collaboration with colleagues and external experts, new pieces of the puzzle come together. Equally important is dialogue with the client.
“You need to listen. Often the key lies in the story.”
Market Insight and the Design of Tomorrow
As a specialist, staying one step ahead is essential. International trends in interior design, art, fashion, and lifestyle influence the market for collectible objects. Right now, Ulrika sees growing interest in design from the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s, especially works by established designers and of high quality.
Demand is strong for lighting and mirrors, as well as natural materials such as sheepskin, pewter, and rattan. Even pine furniture for summer cottages continues to captivate collectors – particularly pieces by Axel Einar Hjorth, which achieve high international prices.
From Everyday Object to High-Value Sale
Sometimes a success story begins unexpectedly. A seemingly simple ceramic vase – won in an art lottery – turned out, after careful research, to have a significant history. With verified provenance and accurate valuation, the final price far exceeded expectations.
“When the gavel falls and everything aligns – the story, the value, and the buyer’s delight – that’s when you know why you love this profession.”
The Design Sale – Spring’s Highlight
The next major milestone is this spring’s edition of The Design Sale – a dedicated auction focusing on design from Art Nouveau to contemporary works. The auction takes place on 28 April and is one of the year’s most eagerly anticipated events for collectors and design enthusiasts.
Ahead of each season, intensive work goes into identifying, valuing, and compiling objects of the highest quality.
“It’s always exciting to see what comes in.”
A New Generation Discovers Auctions
Increasingly, younger buyers and sellers are entering the auction world – often via digital platforms. Interest in design is combined with a strong commitment to sustainability and circular consumption.
Selling at auction is straightforward. Our specialists handle the entire process – from appraisal and marketing to sale and secure handling.
You are welcome to contact our experts for a free valuation and become part of the next chapter in design history.
Ulrika’s Favourites – Design Classics That Have Broken Records
Flower Cabinet by Erik Chambert
“It is both a privilege and a joy to help set world records for a relatively forgotten furniture designer like Erik Chambert.”
Flora Cabinet by Josef Frank for Firma Svenskt Tenn
“Josef Frank’s designs achieve high auction prices – so it’s especially rewarding to elevate his classic designs, like the Flora Cabinet, to new heights.”
Garden Table by Folke Bensow
“Folke Bensow’s classic garden table for Näfveqvarn sets new records – thanks in no small part to Stockholms Auktionsverk’s international clientele.”
Mirror by Björn Trägårdh for Firma Svenskt Tenn
“Early pewter objects from Firma Svenskt Tenn are highly sought after, and this record is further proof that Stockholms Auktionsverk is the leading auction house for these pieces.”
Armchair by Uno Åhrén
“Time and again, this classic armchair from the 1925 Paris Exhibition continues to achieve high prices.”
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