Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Norway
Keeping traditions alive against all odds Against all odds and trends, Ledaal Teppeveveri is the last carpet weaving company standing. Still designing and producing its characteristic carpets in Norway, it attracts customers on the lookout for a unique rug that will stand the test of time. By Helene Toftner | Photos: Ledaal Teppeveveri
As the only remaining carpet weaving company in Norway, Ledaal Teppeveveri thrives on a reputation of high quality and flexibility. Owner and manager Cathrine Hærem is a third-generation weaver and, together with her husband Steffen Wesnes, she produces carpets of all sizes and colours for buyers all over the country. “Our carpets are renowned for their sturdiness and attractive patterns, and those in the know will recognise our works by just looking at them,” Hærem says. Like most goods these days, carpets are largely produced far outside Europe. While the quality may still be good, the long distance and order time halter flexibility. This alone is what has made Ledaal Teppeveveri survive despite its competitors moving abroad, according to Hærem. “We have a small company 54 | Issue 91 | August 2016
of six people, which means we can easily adapt and change according to trends and orders,” she says. “While we have some carpets in stock, many come here to custom-make carpets. One lady in her nineties recently put in an order on a carpet identical to one she had bought from us in 1954.” The fourth generation is already involved in the company, with all children taking
an interest in the family business. “It was my grandmother who started it all, and ironically the machines she started out with were regarded as ‘expired’ by the English owners. So they had clearly moved on over there, but with brilliant threads, colours and not least her own skills she kicked it all off,” Hærem says. Ledaal Teppeveveri is located in Stavanger, in south-west Norway, and is easily reached from international hubs like London, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. For more information, please visit: www.veveri.no