Staffan Tollgård participated in WOW!House 2025, the much-anticipated fourth edition of the international design showcase at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, unveiling the Phillip Jeffries Study, a space that seamlessly combines functionality, artistry and restorative design.
The study, designed in collaboration with Phillip Jeffries wallcoverings, draws inspiration from Tollgard’s guiding design philosophy of the red thread, a Northern European concept referring to the underlying purpose that connects every element of a creative project. Showcasing the red thread of this restorative retreat is ‘functional sculpture’. Each piece – be it furniture, lighting or architectural detail – is thoughtfully designed to serve its purpose while also standing as a work of art. The choice of pieces by makers all of which follow the red thread in their own field of expertise, playing with the powerful impact of sculptural, organic forms across dimensions and materials: in metal, wood, glass, natural stone and leather.
The principles of Scandinavian design underpin the work of Tollgård, a Stockholm-born, Inchbald-trained creative whose background in filmmaking also informs his approach – and coheres to the storytelling and connections inherent in Phillip Jeffries’ bold, brave wallcovering. Envisioning a dream home study by stepping into his clients’ shoes, Staffan ensures the space is both functional and inspiring: a true sanctuary for productivity and relaxation.
At the heart of the WOW!House room, Modern Muse acts as a unifying feature, its bold 2D pattern and rich texture creating a striking contrast with the 3D forms around it. These include the sculptural Ursa and Cassiopeia ceiling sconces by Lasvit and the fluid, organic curves of the Bean desk by Ceccotti. Carefully curated artwork enhances this dialogue, contributing to a cohesive flow and a clear design narrative that ties the space together. We explored a variety of surfaces and textures to engage all the senses, using Alphenberg leather flooring, a material typically found in yoga studios that brings together comfort, tactility and refinement.
The Yoroi Cabinet by De Castelli, perfect for organizing paperwork, draws inspiration from samurai armor. Its metal surfaces mimic overlapping scales, reminiscent of a pangolin, the hidden drawers adding a sense of mystery and delight. Entrelacs lighting is meticulously crafted using the lost-wax technique, then polished and assembled by hand. Sculptural yet essential, the designs seamlessly fuse modern lines with timeless, sculptural forms.
More than a workspace, the study was a place designed to reflect, create, dream, and unwind – a sanctuary where every detail is purposeful, restorative and inspiring.
