In a world so dominated by innovation and forward-thinking, it's easy to forget the history that came before. But for Swedish flooring brand Kährs, the legacy of those early years are at the heart of everything it does, and nowhere more so than in the Founders collection of stunning natural oak boards.
Formed 160 years ago, Kährs is the oldest wood floor manufacturer in the world. It's also the most innovative, with developments that have shaped the global industry on everything from views on sustainability, to the invention of the modern parquet floor and the world's first glueless joint.
These breakthroughs are all part of the butterfly effect that began way back in 1857, when Johan Kährs set up a shop crafting wooden utility goods in Nybro, deep in the heart of a Swedish forest. This small, rural town is still the centre of Kährs' operations today, providing a very physical reminder of its roots - both those of the company and the magnificent trees that make it all possible.
The Founders collection comprises six oak boards, each paying tribute to one of the pioneering founding members of the Kährs family: Johan, Fredrik, Ulf, Olof, Gustaf and Sture.
The range is in homage to the principals and craftsmanship that they set out at the very beginning. It's about a respect for the natural beauty of wood, with each board specially selected to accentuate organic features such as pronounced cracks. The heavily brushed, hand scrapped boards are also enhanced with a natural oil finish to accentuate the grain and texture.
From the muted white of Gustaf, to the golden straw of Johan and the contrasting smokiness of Fredrik, Founders oak boards can bring warmth to minimalist or industrial interiors, while also enhancing a more traditional or rustic style.
Founders is the perfect realisation of what can be achieved when history and innovation are combined.
