The thought that a young Swedish family in the 19th century dedicated their entire lives to ensuring good sleep for others, while I spent my twenties ignoring it without a second thought, is wild. Not that I regret devouring all eight seasons of Game of Thrones in a single week or watching three seasons of The Inbetweeners in three days, but it was only in my thirties that I began to appreciate the quiet luxury of a good night’s sleep — better late than never.
Recently, on a trip to Köping — a Swedish industrial town with Viking roots dating back to the 13th century — I stepped inside the workshop of Hästens, the legendary bedmaker whose factory and headquarters produce some of the world’s most expensive mattresses. It was a revealing encounter with a chapter of history in which artisanal ingenuity transformed and elevated sleep from a biological necessity into a form of premium wellbeing.
In 1978, Jack Ryde introduced the legendary Hästens Blue Check pattern together with the iconic 2000T bed. Ten years later, Jan Ryde, the brand’s current CEO, took the helm. Today Hästens operates in more than 45 countries. Its beds provide restorative sleep in luxury hotels around the world and have found their way into the homes of royalty and celebrities including Drake, Beyoncé and Tom Cruise.
The Hästens “Dream Factory” was designed by British architect Ralph Erskine in 1946 at the request of David Janson, the third generation of the founding family. The building’s curved ceiling complements its industrial design, while a large Hästens logo created by David’s cousin Paul Janson sits on the roof. Inside, a story of exceptional craftsmanship unfolds.
The production process is tailored, clearly structured, unhurried and, above all, transparent — a refreshing sight in today’s world of hyperconsumption. Hästens mattresses are made from horsehair, cotton, wool and flax, materials that support a 25-year warranty. The horsehair is ethically sourced. Its long, smooth fibres are formed into spirals through a 100% natural process, allowing them to act like springs and provide ideal support. Excellent ventilation helps prevent moisture, while cotton adds durability and breathability, wool ensures longevity and flax dissipates static electricity.
Every Hästens mattress is created with one purpose: to help you sleep well. Each model differs in its spring system, layering and finish, but all share natural materials and meticulous handcraft. I had the chance to switch off for 20 minutes on the premium Maranga, 2000T, Vividus and Grand Vividus models. Grand Vividus takes more than 600 hours to make. Handcrafted in Köping using the most advanced techniques, it was created with designer Ferris Rafauli and combines technical perfection with architectural elegance. A Hästens Grand Vividus can cost up to $1,000,000, making it the most expensive bed in the world.
Lying on a personalised limited-edition 2000T at the Hästens factory, feeling it embrace every part of my body in complete relaxation, I briefly considered buying it on instalments. In the wider context, it sounds like a great investment — better, after all, than expensive visits to a physiotherapist. Their approach is honest. One representative told me: “Luxury is a controversial term. Is investing in yourself a luxury or a wise choice?” I apply the same conviction to brands such as Tiffany & Co. and Cartier, so I agree.
In a culture where sixteen-year-olds are already “breaking records” and many others face the risk of slipped discs or neck problems, it is important to reconsider the benefits of restorative sleep. Hästens craftsmanship combines physiological insight with scientific precision. Its in-house chiropractor and health adviser, Chad Eldridge, focuses on the foundations of long-term vitality and has advised renowned athletes, executives and artists. He explained that Hästens beds are designed to support lasting health and ergonomic comfort. It leaves you wondering: what if the elusive “fountain of youth” we have been sleeping on all along is simply a good night’s sleep?
