Therese Cappelen: My 5 Favorite Places for Design Inspiration
Publish date: 20 May 2025
With a love for tech, art, and design, Stockholm-based designer Therese Cappelen has made a name for herself with her brand Manu Matters. She shares her top recommendations for design inspiration around Stockholm.
Therese Cappelen is, first and foremost, a graphic designer. She began her career at various branding agencies in London and Stockholm but eventually grew tired of the 2D world and longed to explore the physical dimension of design.
“I really love materials – touching and feeling things. Everything started when I got a 3D printer and began experimenting. I’m kind of techish and love both art and design. 3D printing brings all of that together,” says Therese Cappelen.
She started by playing around with lamp designs and gradually expanded to include vases. More products are in the pipeline. A core principle of Manu Matters is the use of recycled materials – mainly plastics, for now.
“We’ve had a fantastic response. I didn’t have too high expectations, but today our products are sold in stores across Sweden and the rest of Europe,” says Therese Cappelen.
One of the most important events for Swedish designers is Stockholm Creative Edition
– an annual design festival when shops and studios across the city open their doors to the public. It’s a moment to showcase the diversity and breadth of Swedish design.
“Sweden used to be a bit too cautious, but I think that’s starting to change. From everyone being beige and the same, Scandinavian maximalism is starting to take off, putting individuality at the center. I think that’s fun,” says Cappelen.
Therese Cappelen’s 5 Best Recommendations for Design Inspiration
Beckmans and Konstfack Degree Exhibitions: “The degree exhibitions at Beckmans and Konstfack are some of the most fun events you can visit. They also host events throughout the year—for example, the Christmas market.”
Nationalmuseum: “Nationalmuseum offers a great perspective on product design throughout history. You can see everything from the first phone and tampon to more modern creations.”
A House Ark: “All the co-working spaces from A House are inspiring, but I’ve mostly spent time at the one in Lärkstaden. It’s wonderful to sit and have coffee in the brutalist environment.”
Svenskt Tenn: “As traditional as it may seem, Svenskt Tenn is still incredibly skilled in craftsmanship and continues to feel modern. They’re also great at discovering new artists and designers.”
Studio B3: “A three-story material library that’s perfect if you want to explore and experience different materials firsthand.”