The notion of the Stockholm Furniture Fair as a worthy precursor to Milan's Salone Internazionale del Mobile was increasingly apparent in the presence of several Italian companies exhibiting at the fair for the first time this year, such as Poltrona Frau, Cappellini, Alias and Cassina.

While the Italians remain tight-lipped about their new releases until May’s big debut, one Moroso representative did point me toward the Swedish Front-designed “Moment” collection that premiered in Milan last year when I asked for clues. Hmmm. So maybe more visual games or more pieces from Front? We’ll have to wait and see.

From stalwarts like Gärsnäs, Swedese and Stolab to newcomers like A2 and Massproductions, to student designers like Keisuke Kawase coming up through the region’s prestigious design schools. The Northern Light Fair also brings out Scandinavia’s most inventive lighting companies such as Zero, &tradition, Wästberg and Northern Lighting.

With so many new pieces in my favorite styles from strong designers, it isn’t easy to play favorites. However I’ve pulled together what I consider to be the best of the best from this year’s premieres, just for you. Enjoy the slideshow.