Founded in 1742 by Generals Koskull (Ko) and Staël von Holstein (Sta), Kosta was created so utility glass items such as window panes, drinkware and chandeliers could be provided to Stockholm and Kariskona. Customers included royalty, nobility and wealthy merchants who were able to purchase these costly glass goods. While the glass was from Sweden, Kosta was criticized for using glassblowers from Bohemia and not their country’s own designers, prompting them to hire native designers in the late 1800s.

With a focus on beautiful design, the glassworks company became very successful and merged with Boda and Åfors to become Kosta Boda. Currently, Kosta Boda is part of Orrefors Kosta Boda AB, a design company focused on developing and producing high-quality utility glassware and art glass.  As the largest glassworks group in Nordic countries, their products are equally stunning to look at and practical to use.