Pal – the chair that becomes a friend

On Tuesday, February 3rd, Stolab hosted a press preview and 11 o’clock coffee in their new space at Studio B3 in central Stockholm. The occasion marked the launch of Pal — a new dining chair designed by Mathieu Gustafsson, and the result of a long-standing collaboration that has grown into something more than design alone.

When Mathieu Gustafsson first presented Sture Chair for Stolab in 2017, it marked not only the beginning of a successful design collaboration, but the start of a friendship. With Pal, that conversation continues. A chair that is stripped back yet warm, simple yet carefully considered. Pal does its job in a quiet, dependable way — much like a good friend you can always rely on.

“I see Pal as a band member — quiet but essential. It keeps the rhythm in the room,” says Mathieu Gustafsson.

During the presentation, Mathieu and Stolab’s CEO Martin Johansson shared the story behind Pal — from initial idea to finished chair and reflected on how close collaboration, step by step, can evolve into something more personal. The conversation touched on proportions, material choices, and the Småland mindset, where function, craftsmanship and production go hand in hand without compromising quality.

Guests were invited to enjoy the classic Swedish 11 o’clock coffee, accompanied by pralines inspired by traditional Swedish fika flavours, raspberry thumbprint cookie, princess cake and cinnamon bun. A playful and much appreciated detail that added warmth and personality to the morning.

We are happy to have been part of the launch of Pal and to welcome Stolab to a new setting at Studio B3.

Thank you to Stolab for the trust, and to Plodder PR for a great collaboration.