Background and history 

Svensk Form reintroduces Excellent Swedish Design as an annual celebration to tradition, quality and the unique strength of Swedish design. By reintroducing this prestigious award, Svensk Form wants to honor the rich legacy that Excellent Swedish Design has created, while looking forward to a future where design continues to play a central role in society.

The award was introduced in 1983 and quickly became a symbol of quality, innovation and diversity in Swedish design. One of the initiators was the prominent graphic designer Hans-Christer (HC) Ericsonwho not only conceived the idea but also created the iconic logo. His work laid the foundation for a strong voice for Swedish design, and his influence continues to inspire new generations of designers and design practitioners.

For two decades, Utmärkt Svensk Form was an important platform for promoting Swedish design and the role of the designer in society. The award originally covered areas such as graphic design, industrial design and interior design, but quickly expanded to include more disciplines, such as fashion, textile and digital design.

From Design S back to Excellent Swedish Design 

In 2002, the award was transferred to Design S, broadening and modernizing the concept to embrace a wider field of design. Now, over two decades later, the award is returning to its original name - Excellent Swedish Design - to better connect with its history, identity and purpose. This change aims to highlight the importance of design in a way that combines tradition and future vision.

At a time when the impact of design on society is greater than ever, we see the reintroduction of the the annual Excellent Swedish Design as a way to highlight its importance - both from a historical and future perspective. With a strong connection to the Swedish design tradition, Svensk Form wants to give design actors a platform to shape the next chapter of Swedish design history, with particular attention to economic, social and ecological sustainability.