“I often build my design on a traditional and functional foundation, but still try to add something extra to the design so it will be something new.”
This philosophy defines Sami Kallio’s approach to the Arko collection, where classic trestle table inspiration meets contemporary functionality and sustainability thinking.
The collection’s signature element is the continuous metal fitting in the leg arches, serving both as structural reinforcement and visual identity. This detail transforms traditional craftsmanship into a modern design statement while maintaining the timeless appeal of Scandinavian furniture making.
The Collection
Arko Table represents the optimal narrow table solution at standard height of 730mm. Starting from 1400mm length accommodating two people per long side, it extends up to 2400mm for four people, making it perfect for meeting rooms and collaborative workspaces.
Arko Grande addresses the need for wider, longer surfaces. Available from 1000mm to 1400mm in width, this table can stretch from the standard 1400mm length up to 6300mm, theoretically extending “to the horizon” as the specifications note. At maximum length, it seats twelve people per side, transforming any space into a grand meeting hall.
Arko High Table elevates collaboration to standing height at 900mm. The 2024 introduction includes window and wall-mounted versions, expanding the collection’s versatility for dynamic work environments. Standard configurations range from 1200mm to 2400mm in length.
Arko Bench completes the family with its distinctive solid wood continuous fitting detail. Available in two-person 110cm and three-person 165cm lengths, the bench maintains the collection’s aesthetic DNA while offering optional upholstery that keeps the woodcraft in focus.
Technical Excellence
The collection’s adaptability stems from its modular approach to length customization. Tables exceeding 2400mm utilize divided tops while maintaining structural integrity. All models accommodate electrical solutions and offer four standard surface materials plus sound-dampening construction options.
Environmental responsibility runs deep through FSC-certified timber, water-based lacquers, and adhesive-free construction enabling reconditioning class A rating. The circular furniture flow concept allows complete refurbishment and reuse, supported by a remarkable fifteen-year total warranty covering five years product guarantee plus ten years spare parts availability.
System Intelligence
Arko transcends individual pieces to become a comprehensive furniture ecosystem. The collection integrates seamlessly with the Tova chair for standard height tables and SitOnMe stools for flexible seating arrangements. Wooden suspension fittings facilitate cleaning while maintaining aesthetic consistency.
The continuous metal fittings can be color-matched to table tops or coordinated with interior schemes, offering subtle customization without compromising design integrity. This attention to detail reflects both Kallio’s background and Lundbergs Möbler’s commitment to thoughtful manufacturing.
About the Designer
Sami Kallio, born in Helsinki in 1975, brings international perspective to Gothenburg-based practice. His MFA from HDK Gothenburg and Technical University Helsinki informs furniture and interior design focused on quality, detail, and function requiring deep craftsmanship knowledge and product development experience.
Design Impact
Arko collection represents Scandinavian design tradition’s evolution rather than revolution. By honoring trestle table heritage while introducing contemporary materials and construction methods, Kallio creates furniture that ages gracefully while meeting modern organizational needs.
The collection scales from intimate two-person encounters to grand assemblies of hundreds, maintaining visual coherence and functional excellence across all applications. This scalability, combined with environmental consciousness and exceptional warranty coverage, positions Arko as investment in both aesthetic and operational sustainability.
Through its blend of traditional craftsmanship, modern functionality, and environmental responsibility, the Arko collection exemplifies how thoughtful design can honor the past while embracing the future.
More designs from Sami Kallio:
In Between Bar & Counter Table by Sami Kallio – &Tradition
The new In Between Bar and Counter table by Sami Kallio is testament that the …
New bar and counter chairs extensions of the Betty product family
Jakob Thau and Sami Kallio’s Betty series expands with the addition of a new bar …
New larger Expand circular dining table by Sami Kallio – Northern
New 140 cm round version joins Northern’s expandable oak table series Gathering around a dining …
Teddi Chair a future classic shaped for the world by Sami Kallio – Artilleriet
Teddi Chair, created in collaboration with designer Sami Kallio, is a bold yet timeless piece …
Kallio design by Sami Kallio: The Essence of Nordic Outdoor Simplicity
Kallio Outdoor Lounge Chair Where Nordic Design Meets Outdoor Living The Kallio lounge chair embodies …
Sami Kallio’s Twins Chair Brings Geometric Playfulness to Contemporary Design
Twins Chair Twins is a unique collection inspired by simple geometric shapes and vibrant character, …
The Nobo chair is the result of a thorough design process focused on functionality, comfort, and character, designed by Sami Kallio – Mitab
Nobo The Nobo chair is the result of a thorough design process focused on functionality, …
Arko Collection design by Sami Kallio for Lundbergs Möbler
“I often build my design on a traditional and functional foundation, but still try to …
Sami Kallio’s refined and contemporary In Between series expands with the addition of a conference table and new marble finish
Prompted by the success of his forward-thinking and timeless In Between series, designer Sami Kallio …
Betty armchair design by Jakob Thau & Sami Kallio – &Tradition
Betty TK11. Design by Thau & Kallio, 2024 First launched as a chair, the Betty …
Taverna – Classic stackable peg chair in a modern design by Sami Kallio – Karl Andersson & Söner
Taverna – Classic stackable peg chair in a modern design Classic peg and restaurant chairs …
Gemyt made with a a backrest in solid steambent beech, sculptured to it’s shape in one single piece by Sami Kallio – Gemla
GEMYT is designed by Sami Kallio 2024. Made with a a backrest in solid steambent …
Anywhere is ingeniously simple and becomes slightly sculptural when you stack it design by Sami Kallio – Balzar Beskow
The Anywhere design by Sami Kallio is a versatile stool that can be used as …
With Ismo, Sami Kallio drew inspiration from architecture, especially from brutalism
Ismo side table With Ismo, Sami Kallio drew inspiration from architecture, especially from brutalism, which …
Sami Kallio’s Wooden Embrace Collection for Mizetto
A wooden embrace The Embrace armchair was born both from a dream about a chair …
KH100 Lamps by Sami Kallio – Konsthantverk
Konsthantverk have manufactured lamps since 1921. Truly. Cut, turned, milled, stamped and finished in our …
Valet Wall Console design by Sami Kallio for Northern
“Well-designed details give life to the simplest objects, and it is these details we fall …
STAM family tables designed by Sami Kallio – Gemla
STAM STAM is a family of tables designed by Sami Kallio 2022. With STAM Sami …
Expand Dining Table by Sami Kallio for Northern
Expand dining table Whatever its size, every home needs a place where everyone can be …
Expand dining table by Sami Kallio – Northern
Whatever its size, every home needs a place where everyone can be together. Gathering around …
Valet Wall Console storage without compromising on style design Sami Kallio – Northern
Combining timeless Nordic wood crafting techniques with forward focussed design values, the new Valet Wall …
Thau & Kallio’s beloved Betty series expands with the debut of a counter and bar stool – &Tradition
First launched as a chair, the Betty series now includes a counter and bar stool …
From a three-leg stool to a solid bench by Sami Kallio – Northern
Introducing a new Pal bench This four legs bench is filled with character, natural materials, …
Winwood is an interpretation of Scandinavian design by Thau & Kallio – David Design
Winwood is an interpretation of Scandinavian design, minimalism and balance between past and present. It …
Snapshots – Stockholm Furniture Fair & Northern Light Fair 2018
Snapshots – Stockholm Furniture Fair & Northern Light Fair 2018 Photo: Ola Marton & Maximilian …