Making space for bold ideas: Lammhults x K5

In conversation with Erna Walsh

At K5, we’ve always believed that furniture is more than just objects in a room. It’s about crafting experiences that inspire, comfort, and endure. When we first encountered Lammhults, a brand steeped in Scandinavian craftsmanship and forward-thinking sustainability, it felt like a natural extension of our vision. Their refined yet approachable designs carry a distinctly continental flair that resonates deeply with the kinds of spaces we love to create.

In this conversation, Erna Walsh, K5’s founder and CEO, shares insights into discovering Lammhults, what makes the collaboration meaningful, and how these pieces shape not only interiors but the way people connect and thrive within them.

How did you first come across Lammhults, and what made you want to bring their collection on board?

I first became acquainted with Lammhults through a good friend of mine, who happened to be their export manager. We had worked together successfully in the past, and I valued his judgment highly. When Fredric, who possesses a keen sense for design, expressed his strong conviction that the Lammhults collection would complement our own perfectly, I was genuinely intrigued.

Our collaboration began in earnest around the time Lammhults was celebrating, in partnership with the Hope fashion label, the 25th anniversary of their iconic Campus chair. As a devoted admirer of Hope’s clothing, I found the collaboration particularly inspiring, and the creative synergy between the brands left a lasting impression on me. It was this blend of innovation, quality, and aesthetic sensibility that ultimately convinced me to bring Lammhults into our portfolio, believing it would be a natural and distinguished addition to our existing collection. 

Lammhults is known for their Scandinavian craftsmanship and sustainable design. How do these values align with K5’s approach to furniture and interiors?

At K5, we have always taken pride in championing timeless design, thoughtful craftsmanship, and a deep respect for both the materials we use and the communities we serve. Lammhults’ dedication to Scandinavian craftsmanship and sustainable design resonates strongly with our own philosophy. Their emphasis on enduring quality, honest materials, and a restrained yet warm aesthetic dovetails beautifully with our approach to furniture and interiors. For me personally, Lammhults represents modern Sweden with a distinctly continental sensibility, less stereotypically Scandinavian perhaps, but very much rooted in the values that define Scandinavian design.

There is an elegance and cosmopolitan flair to their collection, yet the commitment to sustainability, function, and integrity remains unmistakably present. We believe that well-crafted pieces should not only enhance a space aesthetically, but also promote longevity and reduce environmental impact. In this respect, Lammhults’ commitment to responsible production and lasting design is in complete harmony with our values at K5. Their pieces feel purposeful, never superfluous, offering both elegance and function, which aligns perfectly with the kind of interiors we aspire to create.

Can you describe how Lammhults pieces contribute to creating meaningful and adaptable spaces?

From K5’s perspective, Lammhults pieces play a significant role in shaping meaningful and adaptable spaces. Their designs offer a refined versatility, allowing our interiors to respond gracefully to the evolving needs of those who use them. Lammhults achieves this by creating furniture that is both visually striking and inherently functional, pieces that can move seamlessly between settings, whether it’s a collaborative workspace, a welcoming reception area, or a calm break-out zone.

The clarity and integrity of their design language enable each piece to feel intentional and considered, fostering an environment where every element has purpose. Moreover, the adaptability of Lammhults furniture supports a dynamic approach to spatial planning. Many of their designs are modular and easily reconfigured, which is especially valuable in settings where flexibility is paramount. Overall, Lammhults empowers us at K5 to design interiors that are not only beautiful, but that genuinely enhance how people use and experience a space, creating places that feel both personal and enduring. 

Sustainability is a big focus in design right now. What specific elements of Lammhults’ circular design or material choices impressed you the most?

What impresses me most about Lammhults’ commitment to sustainability is their thoughtful approach to both heritage and innovation. I particularly admire the way they revisit existing designs, reinterpreting classic pieces by adapting them for contemporary needs, rather than simply starting from scratch each time. Sometimes it is as simple as introducing a new finish, reintroducing a product in an updated context, or perhaps adding castors for mobility. In many cases, the original design is so timeless that there is no need for a complete redesign; a subtle adjustment or addition can give the piece new relevance and appeal.

This philosophy not only extends the life of their products but also honours the integrity of the original design. It’s a gentle yet effective way of embracing circularity—demonstrating that sustainability in design can often mean cherishing what we already have and reimagining it to meet the demands of today.

How do you see the collaboration between K5 and Lammhults influencing the Australian design landscape?

I believe the collaboration between K5 and Lammhults will introduce a fresh perspective to the Australian design landscape, one that marries Scandinavian values with a refined, contemporary sensibility. By offering thoughtfully crafted, adaptable pieces, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for lasting quality and sustainable design within Australia. 

Which is your favourite piece from Lammhults?

I find it hard to pick just one, but I’m especially drawn to the Campus chair, which was launched in 1992 and became an instant success. Designed as a functional, affordable volume chair for the international contract market, it remains a timeless classic. Other favourites include the Tension trolley, inspired by skate culture and characterised by playful mobility; the Bau modular seating series, which encourages creativity in configuration; and the X75-2, a folding chair with a timeless steel tube frame and canvas seat, showcasing clever design and practicality.

How important is storytelling and heritage in the brands you choose to work with, and how does Lammhults fit into that narrative?

Storytelling and heritage are essential in the brands we choose, as they bring a sense of depth and authenticity to our work at K5. Lammhults, with its vibrant visual identity and youthful spirit, reminding me in some ways of the energy of skateboarders, is a perfect fit. It even resonates on a personal level, as my son Matty is a skateboarder, and I see that same sense of freedom and creativity reflected in their work. This dynamic spirit naturally complements the narrative we build around craft, culture, and contemporary design.

What excites you most about showcasing Lammhults to Australian architects and designers?

What excites me most about introducing Lammhults to Australian architects and designers is precisely its distinct character; it’s not your typical Scandinavian look, nor is it Italian in style, but rather carries a refined continental aesthetic. Showcasing a brand of this calibre requires a certain discernment and appreciation, and I believe its subtle sophistication will resonate with those looking for something truly considered and unique within the Australian design landscape.

In your experience, what role does furniture like Lammhults play in shaping the well-being and productivity of a workspace?

In my experience, furniture such as Lammhults plays a vital role in shaping both the well-being and productivity of a workspace. What distinguishes Lammhults is the vibrant energy their pieces bring to an environment, much like what we saw in the new library in Helsinki, where their furniture was beautifully integrated into communal and playful areas, as well as quieter spaces for reflection. The adaptability of items like the Addit sofa encourages a dynamic use of space, inviting people to interact, collaborate, or simply pause and recharge. This thoughtful balance of vitality and comfort helps foster a positive atmosphere where individuals can feel both inspired and at ease, which is essential for wellbeing and productive work.

Finally, what advice would you give to designers and clients looking to incorporate more sustainable and timeless furniture into their projects?

My advice would be to choose pieces that are thoughtfully designed and made to last, both in form and function. Seek out furniture whose beauty endures beyond fleeting trends, and consider how materials, craftsmanship, and adaptability contribute to longevity. Embrace the idea that sustainability often lies in cherishing what is already well-conceived; sometimes a subtle update or reimagining of a classic can offer new relevance without the need for complete reinvention.

Above all, work with brands and makers who share a genuine commitment to responsible practices, ensuring that your projects stand the test of time, both aesthetically and ethically. 

In the end, it’s about feeling

The feeling of lightness when a space flows, the quiet satisfaction of something made well and made to last, the spark of joy that comes from thoughtful design, expressed simply and with care. Lammhults brings this to every piece, an understated clarity that invites people in and gives meaning to the everyday. In welcoming them to the K5 collection, we’re not just sharing beautiful furniture.

We’re sharing a way of seeing the world: bold, refined, and deeply human. We’re proud to be the exclusive home of Lammhults in Australia and to continue building spaces where craft, colour, and connection come together. 

Explore the Collection

Lammhults collection is exclusively available through K5 Furniture.
To explore the full range or experience the pieces in person, visit our showrooms or browse online.

Discover Lammhults