Perhaps the most significant achievement of Danish designers and cabinetmakers, at the height of mid- twentieth- century modernist design was their ability to humanize what had been standardized – erasing the very dichotomy that had made other, then-contemporary designs less appealing. This “his and hers” pair has a perfect balance, having a subtly intriguing yet still traditional look.

These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges, the generous seat cushions, and backs with tufted buttons. Clean lines and gentle curves—and a shared modernist sensibility— visually tie these chairs together. Here, the styles are also unified by the matching premium bouclé upholstery, thanks to which the chairs pair seamlessly without matching perfectly. Another unifying force are the stained beech legs in a square, tapered shape. The legs emphasize the high- and low backs while exposing the beautiful beech wood that comprises the chairs’ structure beneath the fabric.

Thanks to their shared colour palette, graceful curves, and detailing, these lounge chairs speak the same visual language despite their difference in size. The visual differences and similarities effectively break the rigour of strict symmetry, bringing playfulness and creativity to any space.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the legs. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium bouclé fabric.

Dimensions:

High back chair:

28.54 in W x 30.31 in D x 36.41 in H; Seat height 18.89 in

72.5 cm W x 77 cm D x 92.5 cm H; Seat height 48 cm

Low back chair:

28.74 in W x 31.49 in D x 30.7 in H; Seat height 48 in

73 cm W x 80 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 48 cm

About the Designer:

The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.

Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects.  The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.  

Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinet makers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities. 

The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognisable today. These lounge chairs are the perfect illustrations of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.