Slovenian design: the line between cult icons and futurism

From the legendary Rex lounge chair to the latest sustainable solutions – discover the rich tradition and vision of Slovenian design.

On the wings of modernism

Slovenia, Europe's hidden gem, is certain to enchant you, not only with its natural beauty, but also with its rich design heritage, characterised by Central European elegance, Mediterranean temperament and Alpine ingenuity. After the Second World War, Slovenian design flourished on the wings of modernism and the new social order – large manufacturing companies employed designers who created beautiful, appealing, functional objects that were widely accessible and distinguished by their high quality and durability. So what if every flat had the same kitchen? The orange Marles kitchen, which evolved into several renditions over the years, was the pride of every family. Mura coats were worn for a decade, every toddler wore Ciciban shoes, Gorenje washing machines were synonymous with quality even beyond the borders of Yugoslavia, and Iskra's ETA 80 telephone became the most replicated product in the world thanks to its innovation and clean lines.

Iconic objects etched in eternity

The highlights of Slovenian design were created by the architects of the so-called Ljubljana School, who had knowledge, breadth, instinct, and the practical know-how to boldly combine their ideas with the realities of production. For this reason, the history of Slovenian design has a rich narrative of innovation, passion and cultural identity. The modernist period resulted in the production of numerous iconic objects of Slovenian design, including the Rex lounge chair by Niko Kralj and the K67 kiosk by Saša J. Mächtig, which continue to inspire new generations of visionary designers. Travel with us through time, culture and creativity of a nation that continues to inspire the world.

Wooden chair with slatted backrest and seat, featuring curved armrests.

With its foldability and ergonomic lines, it became a symbol of timelessness and is now part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, as well as many Slovenian homes.

A red newsstand on a city street corner, filled with magazines and newspapers. Four people browse, dressed in retro 1960s attire.

Saša Mächtig's universal modular kiosk reshaped urban landscapes and became an emblem of contemporary urban design.

A red vintage rotary telephone with a black handset sits on a white surface.

Designed for Iskra by Davorin Savnik, it was a technological and design phenomenon of its time and was selected as the official telephone of the Moscow Olympic Games.

Three elegant, clear glass vessels on a smooth surface. A tall carafe, a short tumbler, and an upside-down glass jug, all partially filled with water.

The exceptional designer Janja Lap left a lasting mark on Slovenian living culture through glass design. One of her notable pieces is the Gubanka glass.

A set of wooden toy construction pieces includes rods with holes and various connectors. Assembled figure resemble a giraffe.

Its allows children to create various shapes and structures, encouraging motor skills. Designed by Niko Kralj in 1976, it only entered production recently.

A vintage orange television with a rounded screen and a short antenna sits on a white surface.

Iskra's Minirama, available in various vibrant colours, was the first portable television in Yugoslavia – compact enough to take camping.

Exploring Slovenia's design heritage

Some iconic Slovenian design objects are exhibited around the world, including at New York's famous MoMA. But where can you discover them in Slovenia? Numerous museum collections continue to preserve and present the diversity of applied design. Did you know that at the Park of Military History in Pivka, you can step into a typical 1970s or 1980s living room? Many museums also keep their depots there.

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BIO – Biennial of Design

During the height of modernism and the development of domestic industry, the international Biennial of Industrial Design (BIO) was founded in Ljubljana in 1963 – one of the first and most important events of its kind in the world. Throughout the time of the Iron Curtain, it connected East and West, putting Slovenia on the global design map. Over the decades, BIO has become a dynamic platform for the exchange of ideas, innovation and visions of the future. Today, it functions primarily as a laboratory fostering dialogue between designers, artists and researchers, encouraging reflection on the systems that shape our everyday lives. The next BIO 29 will be taking place from 19 November 2026 to 4 April 2027.

More about the BIO Biennale

Photo: BIO27 Super Vernaculars, Klemen Ilovar

Contemporary Slovenian design: the new wave of a younger generation

Contemporary Slovenian designers remain, in many respects, faithful to modernism while questioning established life concepts, policies and identities in the spirit of global trends, placing particular emphasis on sustainability, a green future and tradition. Using new materials and innovative approaches, they create solutions that are not only aesthetically refined but also socially and environmentally responsible. The interplay between roots and visions of the future reflects the unique spirit of Slovenian design, resulting in numerous international award-winning products. A selection of these can be found below.

The Ribbon chair

This feminine chair, adorned with a distinctive bow, combines a romantic aesthetic with playfulness, sophistication and modern design. It was created by the internationally acclaimed Nika Zupanc.

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Flow

The inspiration behind this elegant glass collection, created by leading Slovenian glass designer Tanja Pak, was the movement of water, lending the pieces a sense of lightness and refined aesthetics.

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The Eclipse

A wooden frame, light and shadow form a composition of interconnected elements that transform any wall into a timeless screen. The Eclipse lamp was designed by Tilen Sepič.

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The Action motorhome

Designed by Nina Mihovec for Adria Mobil, this compact, functional and aesthetically refined motorhome was created for lovers of unforgettable adventures.

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The Vitka lamp

The Vitka lighting series by Janez Mesarič represents a harmony of form and light – minimalist and elegant luminaires distinguished by subtlety and adaptability.

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The Beatnik chair

This imaginative chair by Donar, made from recycled materials and incorporating a self-contained sound station, can become your very own private cocoon – even in the middle of a crowded space.

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The Musguard mudguard

Designed by Jurij Lozič, this bicycle mudguard is an ideal choice for urban cyclists – easy to install and stylish in appearance.

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The Elan Voyager

The world's first folding carving skis impress with their innovation and practicality, combining outstanding performance with ease of transport.

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The Alpina cross-country ski boot

Designed by Jure Miklavc for Alpina, this cross-country ski boot combines advanced technology with ergonomic design, providing optimal support and comfort.

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Made in Slovenia

The Museum of Architecture and Design plays host to the Centre for Creativity, which organises events, connects design professionals and educates younger generations of designers and creatives. It also oversees the Made in Slovenia product catalogue – a carefully curated selection of products and souvenirs reflecting Slovenia's visual and design excellence alongside its identity and heritage.

Discover products with the Made in Slovenia label

A fashion show in a bright industrial space with models walking down a long runway between rows of seated guests. — Ljubljana Fashion Week at the Rog Center. Photo: Žiga Intihar

Slovenia's fashion stories

Small Slovenia, great design names. Their clothing and fashion accessories are worn by the world's biggest stars, including Lady Gaga, dressed not so many years ago by Peter Movrin in an impressive creation of black silk and faux leather. Cardi B was styled for the cover of Rolling Stone by Tanja Vidic. Meanwhile, former luxury jewellery designer Lara Bohinc, who later turned her attentions to furniture design, so impressed British audiences with her cosmic creations that the late Elizabeth II awarded her the prestigious title of MBE.

Some Slovenian fashion designers moved abroad following the decline of the once-strong Slovenian textile industry, going on to achieve success there. Others, alternatively, remained at home, where, with inexhaustible creative energy and experimentation, they transcended the times in which we live and built their own brands, receiving prestigious awards both domestically and internationally. Among those who remained in Slovenia is the first lady of Slovenian fashion, Marjeta Grošelj, who has been designing her iconic leather handbags for almost sixty years.

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Ljubljana Fashion Week – LJFW

Immerse yourself in the hypnotic atmosphere of Slovenia's central fashion event, unveiling the latest fashion stories from Slovenia and guests from abroad each autumn.

Visit Ljubljana Fashion Week

A woman stands by the window of a stone building on a cobblestone walkway, looking into the shop display beside a metal table and two chairs.

A man sits at a desk by a large window, performing precise manual work under a desk lamp.

In Ljubljana and other Slovenian towns, numerous fashion, accessories and filigree jewellery designers open their ateliers to visitors – come in and visit them! Some even collaborate in concept stores, cooperatives and studios such as Zoofa and Juvelirij in Ljubljana. At Ljubljana’s Center Rog, many labs give visitors the opportunity to learn about the work of a designer of useful or decorative products under the guidance of established designers and craftspeople. Increasingly, creative workshops are inviting travellers into studios to create their own unique – even fashion oriented – souvenirs.

Arts & Culture Experiences

When culture is what inspires your journey, your holiday or your retreat, you choose Slovenia – a country of remarkable heritage and vibrant contemporary creativity. This representative thematic guide invites you to discover feel-good towns, presenting Slovenian modernism and a cultural transversal. It draws inspiration from the transformative power of contemporary artistic practices and invites you on journeys through time across Slovenia’s historic towns.

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Creative. Inspiring. Slovenia.

Architectural masterpieces by great masters like Jože Plečnik and Edvard Ravnikar, alongside the contemporary image that Slovenian cities are gaining through the occasionally futuristic projects of a younger generation of architects. Galleries and museums with a century-long tradition coexist with young creative hubs alive with both contemporary practices and energy. Slovenian art and culture lend their distinctive characters to a destination that invites discovery sure to inspire you.

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Museums and galleries where you can also enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine

Where can you top off your visit to the museums and galleries with a good coffee or a glass of wine?

Creative art centres and venues

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Stories from Slovenia

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Slovenian design: the line between cult icons and futurism

On the wings of modernism