After visiting Versailles in 1771, Gustav III became highly influenced by French Neoclassicism and sought to adopt elements of the Louis XVI style, but tailored to Swedish tastes and available materials.

This period saw a strong cultural exchange between Sweden and France, and the king encouraged the development of Swedish art and architecture under these new influences.

[6] Rehn is credited with introducing restrained and classical elements into Swedish design, such as fluted columns, straight lines, and Greco-Roman motifs.

His work, alongside the contributions of other prominent designers such as Louis Masreliez and Georg Haupt, defined the aesthetic of Swedish interiors during this period.

[3][8] Neoclassical influences: Motifs such as laurel wreaths, festoons, and Greek and Roman-inspired decorations are commonly featured in Gustavian design.

The period saw the construction of notable buildings in the style, such as Gustav III's Pavilion at Haga Park and Svartå Castle (Finnish: Mustion linna) in Finland.

These modern reinterpretations, using less expensive materials but retaining some aesthetics of the 18th-century originals, helped introduce the Gustavian style to a worldwide audience.