In a world where furniture is more than just functional, Bolia stands out as a brand redefining Scandinavian design with sustainability and craftsmanship at its core. We had the pleasure of speaking with Jo Foley, Bolia’s Head of Retail, to uncover the philosophy behind their timeless creations and what makes their approach to design resonate with modern living. From eco-conscious materials to creating spaces that inspire, Foley shares insights into how Bolia continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.
Bolia’s designs embody Scandinavian elegance. How do you balance timeless aesthetics with modern trends in your collections?
At BOLIA, we believe that Scandinavian design is timeless because it is rooted in simplicity, functionality, and quality. Our approach to balancing timeless aesthetics with modern trends is about staying true to those core values while remaining open to innovation and the evolving needs of our customers. We combine classic elements of Scandinavian design—such as clean lines, natural materials, and a sense of understated elegance—with contemporary touches that reflect current lifestyles, technologies, and design sensibilities. In this way, our collections remain both relevant and enduring, creating pieces that feel both fresh and lasting in any home.”
Sustainability is an important aspect of Bolia’s ethos. Can you share how this commitment influences your design and production process?
At BOLIA we are radical optimists, believing that the world is slowly changing for the better and that our creative minds combined will constantly find new ways forward and battle the challenges we face along the way. We believe that a more sustainable way forward is all about positive choices. The thousands of choices we make every day as a politician, a board member, a leader, a colleague, a family member, a consumer, and as an individual.
At BOLIA, our ambition is to make healthier, smarter and greener choices and to inspire our colleagues, partners, and customers to do the same by sharing our passion, creativity, and solutions. We are always on a journey towards something better. We are not perfect, and we will surely make mistakes on our journey forward, but we are honest, open-minded, positive, dedicated, and high on creativity.
What we believe matters the most is extending product longevity, by making beautifully timeless designs from carefully selected and certified materials, crafted to last for generations and inspiring consumers to buy less but better.
Your pieces often blend functionality with artistry. What inspires the creative process behind a new collection at Bolia?
BOLIA has always been inspired by nature and our new collection is not any different. From natural textures, elegant colours and tactility of new fabrics and leathers, as well as new design icons in refined travertine, marble and dark oiled oak.
As a brand that redefines modern living, what role do you think furniture plays in shaping the atmosphere and personality of a home?
It plays a tremendously important role. Our home is our sanctuary and the spaces we create reveal not only who we are, but also who we aspire to be.
Bolia is known for creating unique, personal interiors. What advice would you give to someone looking to bring a Scandinavian touch to their space?
Keep it simple, keep it beautiful.
At the heart of Scandinavian design is the principle of minimalism. But don’t confuse minimalism with stark or sterile — it’s about clean lines, thoughtful pieces, and an open, uncluttered feel. The idea is to create spaces that are easy to live in and visually restful, so start by curating your furniture carefully. Choose quality over quantity, opting for pieces that blend form and function seamlessly. Whether it’s a sleek sofa or a minimalist coffee table, each item should not only serve a purpose but also elevate the overall aesthetic.
If you could furnish the set of any iconic film or TV show with Bolia designs, which one would it be, and why?
Well personally for me, any set of a Nancy Meyers movie would be a dream. Not only is she renowned for effortless, classic, layered and timeless styling but she creates a setting for our homes that we yearn for. In this is why I truly believe that BOLIA is the perfect design house to encapsulate these aesthetics.
