28/05/2025
Nordic Talks: Authenticity - a conversation about style
This year's motto of the Copenhagen trade fair 3daysofdesign, Keep it real«, celebrates individual expression and personal experiences - and thus picks up on the desire for a more mindful, inclusive and conscious world. In other words: stay true to yourself. After all, who wants to live in a life designed just for the brochure?
The event aims to show that design has nothing to do with prestige or power. Today it's about meaning. Meaning that is expressed in sustainable choices, innovative materials, tactile experiences, meaningful stories and carefully considered details - all designed to enrich life, not just decorate it.
But what does this look like in everyday life? We try to provide answers to some of the questions we have been asked.
More than a beautiful appearance
F: Why should we be concerned with authenticity at all?
A: Perhaps because we have long known that the illusion of the perfect home remains just that: an illusion. We are inundated with images of immaculate homes every day - and yet many people feel that they want more than just surfaces.
Perhaps also because it is a small luxury to take your time and not organize your life according to the scale of the next season. And finally, perhaps because the really interesting rooms always tell a story. Your story.
Your story in space
F: How do you support your customers in finding their story?
A: By listening first of all. Not everyone who wants to furnish a room knows exactly how they want to feel in it. We help you to ask - and answer - these questions.
What is important to you? How would you like to live - not in the photo, but on a rainy Tuesday morning? This leads to a dialog.
We combine your personality and architecture with the right pieces, carefully curated and put together so that they suit you now - and still make sense tomorrow.
Products with attitude
F: Why does authenticity also play a role in the products?
A: Because an authentic home should not only be honest to you - but also to the resources of our planet. That's why we value timeless quality, natural materials and responsible production processes when selecting our products. Because anything that is not in harmony with its origins cannot tell a coherent story in your home.
We believe that what is genuine does not harm you or the environment. On the contrary - it's good for both.
Clarity creates freedom
F: Isn't it risky to commit to a personal style?
A: We would rather say: it is risky not to do so. Because if you don't have your own point of view, you live in an endless loop of other people's ideas. Committing yourself does not mean restricting yourself, but gaining clarity. The people we perceive as particularly stylish are often the ones who remain true to their values and are not afraid to take a stand.
We see ourselves as your counterpart, your sparring partner. Not to dictate rules to you, but to work with you to find a line that suits you - and lasts.
Not for everyone, but for you.
F: And what remains at the end?
A: A home that is authentic - because it reflects you. Whether quiet or loud, minimalist or expressive, it doesn't matter. What matters is that it suits you. A place that gives you space to be who you are - and that reminds you every day of what matters to you.
It's not an interior for everyone. But it is the right one for you.
Authenticity is not a trend - it's character
True style doesn't follow a pattern - it reflects you, your attitude and your aspirations. Authentic living means designing rooms that suit you and last. With quality, substance and a sure instinct for the essentials, we create interiors that are just that: genuine.
Book your 1:1. A free and non-binding introductory appointment with our expert.
An interior design is as personal as it gets. So get to know your personal designer from our team in a free 30-minute video call or during your visit to our studio in Zurich. Together we will find out which consultation package is right for you and answer all your questions about our consultation.
Anna Berg
Interior Design Lead
The founder of holm, Anna Berg, was born in Sweden and has been running holm for 20 years. As Interior Design Lead, she is responsible for all our interior design projects.