Scandinavian birch closet by Göran Malmvall

Vintage Göran Malmvall furniture reflects the skill and precision of a craftsman focused on geometry and sumptuous simplicity. The Swedish designer's tables and case pieces are sleek and striking, with elegant, clean lines that emphasize the function-first sensibility typically associated with Scandinavian modernism. An adept cabinetmaker with considerable technical expertise, Malmvall created furniture that is widely loved by design enthusiasts all over the world. 

Malmvall was born in Berghem, Sweden, and was the youngest son of Karl Andersson — the master cabinetmaker and founder of the reputable furniture company Karl Andersson Söner. Malmvall grew up on the small family farm in Berghem with his ten brothers and sisters but was so frequently in the factory that he often slept there. At the young age of 17, he became a foreman on the production floor and, eventually, factory manager. 

Early on, Malmvall showed a considerable talent for design and began studying furniture-making in his spare time. He took design courses near his hometown, and he was brought into the family business at a young age. Malmvall furthered his studies under the tutelage of Carl Malmsten, a prominent designer and educator associated with Swedish modernism. 

Malmvall became an integral part of Karl Andersson Söner and one of its leading designers. In 1972, he created the iconic KA72 series of storage cabinets — a completely customizable system that can be purchased with solid-wood or glass-front doors and open shelving. The KA72 collection is still available from Karl Karl Andersson Söner today and is versatile enough for any room in the home.

Malmvall went on to design for several Scandinavian furniture companies. The slender dining chairs, sofas and tables he created for Svensk Fur are likely his best known designs. He remained a designer for Karl Andersson Söner until 1982. The designer’s son, Karl Malmvall, is also a successful furniture designer who worked for IKEA.

On 1stDibs, find vintage Göran Malmvall seating, tables, case pieces and more.