Artek presents Zebra – a classic textile in a new colourway

A softer interpretation broadens the textile’s appeal across upholstered furniture and lifestyle accessories.

In Autumn 2026, Artek shines a light on Zebra, the iconic jacquard textile that has been in the collection since 1935, with the launch of a new brown and white colourway.

The textile is showcased at a time when animal prints are prominent in fashion and interiors, having made a recent resurgence on the runways and in the collections of major fashion brands.

Artek Zebra 2026 in situ Stool 60 Black and Brown Zebra Table 91 walnut master

Zebra has, however, been a consistent presence in the Artek design palette for almost a century. Discovered by Aino Aalto during her travels through Europe in the 1930s, it appeared upholstered on Aalto furniture when Artek opened its first store in Helsinki in 1936. It has remained present ever since.

With its bold, rhythmic stripes, Zebra’s strong visual character and expert craftmanship has allowed it to endure nine decades of chang-ing tastes. The textile is made using a double jacquard weaving technique, giving it a structural presence and durability that makes it ideal for upholstery and lifestyle accessories.

Artek Zebra 2026 Armchair 400 Tank Brown and White Zebra Table 90D master

Armchair 400 with brown and white Zebra upholstery. Design Alvar Aalto, 1936.

A new colourway now arrives in the form of a soft brown and white version, broadening the textile’s appeal to a wider range of interiors. The earthy brown palette offers warmth while retaining the pattern’s energy and sense of playfulness.

The brown and white Zebra textile will be available globally from 3 September 2026 through Artek stores, selected dealers, and online. Both the classic black and white and the new brown and white zebra textiles are available across all upholstered Artek furni-ture, as well as a range of lifestyle accessories including bags and cushions.

Artek Zebra 2026 in situ Bench 167 Black and white Zebra Pendant Light A110 brick master

Bench 167 with black and white Zebra upholstery. Design Alvar Aalto, 1945. Pendant Light A110 with brick red coating. Design Alvar Aalto, 1952.

Updates to furniture and lighting

A capsule collection of Artek products accom-panies the new Zebra collection. The Kanto magazine/firewood rack and Alvar Aalto’s low Table 90D are both presented with a walnut stain that lends warmth to interiors while complementing the new brown and white Zebra colourway. Meanwhile, two of Alvar Aalto’s most celebrated pendant lights — A330S “Golden Bell” and A110 “Hand Grenade” — are updated in a distinctive brick red that is drawn from Artek’s archives. These limited edition pendant lights will be available while stocks last from Artek stores and select dealers.