This “No. 394” sideboard by Danish designer Kai Kristiansen is a practical design with an overall look and details that represent mid-century Danish Modernism.

The sideboard’s design follows in the vein of Scandinavian functionality, timelessness and quality. The jacaranda veneer has two characteristic round handles that are a recurring design element of Kristiansen’s. The handles are indented, keeping the surface even, while also adding an interesting detail. When the four individual drawers are pulled out, the beautiful dovetail joinery becomes visible. The legs supporting the body are kept minimalistic, letting the drawers and the grain of the wood stand out even more. The understated, yet well-though out design with simple lines and visible joinery is why this model is widely popular.

The company, Aksel Kjersgaard has been well known for their continuing manufacturing of modern furniture designed by leading Danish architects in the best carpentry design. The furniture factory was founded in 1952 by master carpenter Aksel Kjersgaard and in 1955, the production of entrance furniture and small furniture began. In the case of this sideboard, the wood was selected with great care and consideration and was sorted so that colour and structure match together in the individual pieces.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood.

Dimensions:

46.06 in W x 14.17 in D x 20.47 in H

117 cm W x 36 cm D x 52 cm H

About the designer:

Designer Kai Kristiansen was born in 1929 in Denmark. He apprenticed in cabinetmaking before he in 1948 enrolled in the prestigious Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen under the highly influential designer Kaare Klint.

At the age of only 26, Kristiansen opened his own studio and began to create furniture in what would soon become known as the Danish modern style. His designs would be produced by well-known Danish manufacturers, such as Feldballes Møbelfabrik, Fornem Møbelkunst, Fritz Hansen, Vildbjerg Møbelfabrik and Magnus Olesen. Best known for his smooth and geometric Mid-Century Modern cabinets, tables, and dining chairs. Working in oak, teak, and rosewood, the designer produced popular, pioneering pieces including the cabinets, chairs and diverse furniture for halls.

The designer opened his own office in Copenhagen in 1955, a space he shared with his contemporary Illum Wikkelsø in the 1970s. Thanks to the FM system, Kristiansen became quickly famous in the Scandinavian countries but also in North America.

In 2016, Kristiansen partnered with Great Dane Furniture, an Australian Importer of Danish furniture, to launch a reissue of his designs popularized in the mid-1950s. The designer continues to collaborate with designers and manufactures, and lives and works in Copenhagen, Denmark. ~H.