The 10 Most Iconic Chair Designs of Danish Furniture

If you read my previous post, then you know I recently took a trip to Copenhagen. That got me thinking about some of the most iconic pieces of furniture that we often see in danish design and danish interiors today. And lucky for you I’m sharing some of the best iconic chair designs seen in danish homes and how you can score yourself a more affordable option.

From the finn juhl chair to the wishbone chair, Danish modern furniture has become one of the most popular styles today. Its popularity is attributed to its simplicity, timelessness, and functionality.

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Design is king in Denmark, something that is evident in their timeless, beautiful and well-crafted furniture. Danish designers have a reputation for combining functionality with simplicity and elegance in their designs. One such example is Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen, whose famous Egg chair has become synonymous with Danish design.

When it comes to style, the Danes definitely know best. The country is home to some of the most iconic history making furniture designers who have created pieces of furniture that continues to be replicated today.

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Designs Influenced By Architecture and Nature

In much of danish design and in most Scandinavian countries, there is a focus on functionality and simplicity, but also a strong influence from architectural elements , form and nature. From the architectural shapes of buildings to natural sun light and the soft lines that remind us of organic shapes. There’s a constant marriage between object and environment in Scandinavian design.

A major concept in Danish design is connecting objects we use daily, like furniture, with our everyday surroundings, such as nature and architecture. And creating a connection between the natural world and everyday objects like things we sit on and the things that surround us in an environment was massively influential in danish design and danish homes.

A New Legacy Of Danish Furniture

The sort of furniture danish furniture makers sought to create was light, airy and accessible to all. Danish furniture became popular worldwide for its simplicity, functionality, and affordability. The combination of modern design with traditional craftsmanship resulted in timeless pieces that remain popular today. Danish furniture has been the inspiration for many contemporary designs that have become iconic in their own right.

The popularity of Danish modern furniture is due to its simplistic yet elegant design. The style emphasizes clean lines, simple silhouettes, and the use of natural materials like wood that gives it a warm and inviting feel. The combination of these elements makes for timeless pieces that fit into any home’s decor. It also has an organic look that can easily be adapted to different interior styles.

The CH24 Wishbone chair, designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1950, is a prime example of this. The chair’s arms and back mimic the shape of a wishbone, tying in the natural element.

Architect Arne Jacobsen is a great example of someone who crossed over into furniture design. The series 7 chairs by Arne Jacobson also have a focus on functionality and simplicity with their lightweight design, while being inspired by the shapes found in nature, such as trees and water droplets.

Danish designer and skilled cabinetmaker Poul Kjærholm was known for his fondness of steel and natural materials. Remembered for his iconic PK22 chair, which combines a minimalist steel frame with other textures like leather and cane.

Similarly, the CH24 “Wishbone” chair by Hans Wegner also combines natural materials like wood with clean lines and functionality, earning it the nickname “The King of Chairs.”

Functional Design & Production

The focus on functional design is also reflected in the production process. In the 1950s, furniture designer Børge Mogensen pioneered a system for mass-producing high quality furniture for the average person with his “People’s Collection.”

Mogensen believed that good design should be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy elite. His iconic Spanish chair, made from natural oak and saddle leather, is still produced today by Fredericia Furniture.

Other examples of functional designs include Poul Henningsen’s PH5 pendant lamp and Verner Panton’s stacking S Chair, which can easily be stacked and stored to save space.

Many Danish furniture designers worked with local manufacturers to create high quality, well-crafted pieces that will stand the test of time. Even today, Danish design remains popular and in demand because of the understanding that practicality and durability are just as important as aesthetics.

Interior Styles That Run The Gamut

Danish furniture design are popular and work in a variety of interior styles. Pieces like the Egg chair or the Wishbone chair can add a touch of mid-century modern to a room, while pieces like the Spanish chair by Børge Mogensen brings a more rustic, Danish modern feel.

Here are just some of the most iconic and recognizable Danish furniture designs that have made their mark on interior design history:

1. Arne Jacobsen’s Egg Chair

Originally designed for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, this chair has become iconic and a symbol of Danish design.

Its unique shape and comfortable cushions make it a popular choice for homes and offices alike. And a great alternative for traditional lounge chairs. You can easily find more affordable replicas of this design style online.

Check out this dupe:

2. Hans J. Wegner’s Wishbone Chair

The “Y” chair, designed in 1949, is a beautiful piece that remains popular to this day. The simple carving on the seat and back give it an elegant look that will never go out of style.

This design style is so easy to find, widely popular right now and makes for a great option for dining room chairs.

Here’s a budget-friendly option:

3. Børge Mogensen’s Spanish Chair

This sturdy chair was designed in 1958 with comfort and practicality in mind. Its boxy shape and leather straps give it a rustic.

This style of chair is pretty difficult to find an exact replica of, but there are similar designs that combine that leather and wood aesthetic.

Here’s a good alternative:

4. Finn Juhl’s 45 Chair

This chair, designed in 1945, is known for its floating appearance and organic shape. It’s a popular choice for adding a unique touch for a cozy corner chair in a living room or bedroom.

Check out this modern take on the design:

5. Poul Kjærholm’s PK22 Chair

Designed in 1956, this chair combines a sleek steel frame with leather straps for a minimalist yet stylish look.

This style could make a wonderful minimalist statement as an accent chair.

Check out this dupe:

6. Verner Panton’s Panton Chair

This iconic 1960s chair is known for its bold use of color and single molded shape. It’s a statement piece that adds pop to any room.

Check out this contemporary take on the design:

7. Børge Mogensen’s J39 Chair

Designed in 1965, this chair features a simple and elegant design with warm wood and leather accents.

Another great dining room chair option, this style can be paired with other Scandinavian-style furniture for a cohesive look.

Check out this dupe:

8. Arne Jacobsen’s Series 7 Chair

Designed in 1952, this chair’s unique minimalist shape (also known as the ant shape) and use of materials make it a classic choice for modern interiors.

This chair has become a classic in the world of design, with its simple and minimalist design. It’s perfect for any modern space. A very easy chair to find, this style will make a great addition to any home or office.

For a similar look, check out this dupe

9. Hans Wegner’s Round Chair

This chair, designed in 1949, features a unique rounded shape and woven seat that add visual interest to any room.

With curvy design being a hot trend right now , this chair is a great option for adding texture and visual interest in any space.

You can find similar chairs online, like these:

10. Vintage Shell Chair by Hans J. Wegner

This iconic chair is a true work of art, with its elegant curves and timeless design. It is a popular choice for modern interiors and can be found in many vintage furniture collections.

If you love the look of vintage furniture but don’t want to spend a fortune on it.

Check out this affordable replica:

I hope you enjoyed today’s post. It can be fascinating learning about designs that you see quite often, and which may influence your interior design down the road.

And now that you’re a little familiar with some of the danish designers and design silhouettes out there, why not incorporate a few into your own space? Luckily today you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to get the same look, as many furniture companies offer replicas at more affordable prices.

Whether you’re looking for a gorgeous modern accent chair for your living room, or a sleek dining room set, there’s something out there for everyone. Whether it’s mid century, minimalist, or modern, creating a stylish design in any home is easy enough when you incorporate these danish chairs.

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