The story of how GETAMA got its name is perhaps as unique as the range of subdued but sophisticated Scandinavian modern furniture for which the manufacturer is known (thanks to a partnership with Hans Wegner).
In the late 1890s in the Danish town of Gedsted, a young cabinetmaker by the name of Carl Pedersen opted to use seaweed — rather than the traditional heather or straw — as mattress stuffing. Pedersen named his new factory Gedsted Tang-og Madrasfabrik (the “Gedsted Seaweed and Mattress Factory”), which he abbreviated to GETAMA. Seaweed’s fire-retardant properties make it an excellent and safe upholstery material for mattresses, chairs and sofas. Pedersen leveraged this quality as a selling point — the abundance of seaweed on the shores of Denmark and its weightlessness added to its appeal as an economical but durable upholstery filling for all kinds of furnishings. The crowning quality was its softness.
GETAMA’s seaweed mattresses proved so popular for their comfort and durability that Pedersen had to expand into a larger factory within the first year. He felt almost obligated to launch a line of bedroom furniture to accompany his much-loved mattresses.
The working relationship established in 1959 between Hans Wegner and GETAMA afforded the company the opportunity to break into the international market. Wegner — a legendary Danish carpenter and furniture designer revered by mid-century modern collectors everywhere — became one of the brand’s principal designers and often spent a great deal of time at the factory — refining and adjusting each new piece until he felt satisfied that it was ready for production. For decades, Wegner’s impressive contributions to GETAMA’s daybeds, lounge chairs, sofas and dining room tables became the backbone of the company’s sales.
Over the years, other designers entered into working agreements with GETAMA, including Nissen & Gehl, OM Design, 2R Design, Blum and Balle, and Jørgen Gammelgaard. Copenhagen native Nanna Ditzel, a Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts alum who trained under Kaare Klint, designed GETAMA’s Mondial coffee table. Alongside her husband, Jørgen Ditzel, she also created the sensuously curvy and wildly popular Ring chair.
Today, the sleek modern furniture that GETAMA manufactures is still inclusive of their lauded mattresses.
On 1stDibs, find vintage GETAMA seating, tables, storage cabinets and other furniture.
Hans Wegner Teak Daybed, by Getama
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Raleigh, NC
This exceptional GE258 daybed represents one of Hans Wegner's most iconic and sought-after designs, showcasing the Danish master's unparalleled ability to blend sculptural beauty wi...
Upholstery, Teak
$6,800Sale Price|20% Off
Hans J. Wegner for Getama – Model GE6 Teak Daybed, Denmark, 1960
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Chicago, IL
Hans J. Wegner for Getama – Model GE6 Teak Daybed, Denmark, 1960 A classic Danish modern daybed designed by Hans J. Wegner for Getama, model GE6, crafted in teakwood with newly uph...
Upholstery, Teak
Hans J. Wegner Danish Modern Daybed in Teak and Rattan GE7 Made at GETAMA, 1950s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Odense, DK
Designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA this amazing convertible daybed / sofa features a beautifully patinated teakwood frame and woven cane / rattan back seat which reveals a hidden spa...
Wool, Cane, Rattan, Teak
Hans J. Wegner 1950s Danish Modern Daybed in Oak and Rattan "GE7" Made at GETAMA
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Odense, DK
Designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA this amazing convertible daybed / sofa features a beautifully patinated oak frame and woven cane / rattan back seat which reveals a hidden space fo...
Wool, Cane, Rattan, Oak
Daybed GE-19 by Hans Wegner for GETAMA, 1960
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Wonderful daybed GE-19 by Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA, 1956, solid oak frame with tapered legs and brass end rail accents, felt covered flat springs, marked.
Brass
Daybed "GE-1" by Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA, Denmark, 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Stockholm, SE
Very cool lounge chair with footstool by Hans J. Wegner. Can be set in a flat position and turned into a daybed. Made from oak with beautiful woodgra...
Brass
Danish Modern Hans J. Wegner Adjustable Daybed GE-1 in Teakwood by GETAMA, 1950s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Odense, DK
Rare & important daybed with footstool model GE-1 by Hans J. Wegner. From the very early production by GETAMA in the 1950s. Can be set in a flat position and turned into a daybed. Ma...
Teak
Hans Wegner Daybed & Lounge Chair Model GE1
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Utrecht, NL
Daybed model GE1 by Hans Wegner in solid oak with oil finish and a bespoke fine bouclé fabric upholstery in seafoam-green from a premium Italian brand. Hans J. Wegner's idea was th...
Stainless Steel
Hans J. Wegner Versatile Chaise Lounge or Daybed in Oak
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA, chaise lounge with ottoman model GE01, oak, metal, fabric, Denmark, design 1954 This chaise lounge consists out of two sections. An adjustable lounge chai...
Metal
$5,750
H 31.89 in W 104.73 in D 32.29 in
Model "GE-300" Four-Seater Sofa by Hans J. Wegner for Getama, Denmark ca 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Utrecht, NL
Hans Jørgensen Wegner was one of the central figures of Danish modern design, known for combining rigorous craftsmanship with an almost effortless sense of comfort and proportion. Wo...
Fabric, Wood
Hans J. Wegner 'Hammock Chair', for Getama, 1967
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Copenhagen, DK
A rare Hans J. Wegner Hammock chaise lounge. Beautiful patinated oak frame and original halyard with copper details. Light linen fabric cushion with ...
Brass
$3,999Sale Price|50% Off
H 28 in W 83 in D 30 in
Vintage 1960s Danish Three-Seat Sofa Model GE-300/3 by Hans Wegner for GETAMA
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage 1960s Danish three-seat sofa Rare model GE300/3 designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA Manufacturer solid light oak solid wood frame and legs with original patina has original sp...
Upholstery, Oak
Cigar Chair Model GE240 by Hans J Wegner for Getama
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Little Burstead, Essex
A very nice example of this classic chair, freshly uphosltered in Mocha coloured Boucle fabric. The frame in Oak and all in great condition.
Fabric, Oak
$2,690
H 33.47 in W 71.26 in D 29.53 in
Midcentury Rare Sofa GETAMA designed by Hans J. Wegner, Denmark, 1960s
By Finn Juhl, Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Praha, CZ
- rare type - very confortable - marked
Fabric, Wood
$4,782
H 27.56 in W 70.87 in D 33.47 in
Mid Century Modern Hans J. Wegner Model GE-290 for Getama Gedsted Denmark Sofa
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Kramfors, SE
Vintage Hans J. Wegner sofa model GE-290 for Getama Gedsted, Denmark. The sofa is a mid century classic by one of the most famous names of the time, Hans J. Wegner (Denmark, 1914-200...
Fabric, Oak
$4,640Sale Price|20% Off
H 30 in W 77 in D 34 in
Danish Mid-Century Modern Daybed Sofa by Hans Wegner for Getma
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in New York, NY
Iconic Danish Mid-Century Modern daybed, sofa - model GE- 258 designed by Hans Wegner for Getma. This example is in very good, estate condition, specifically the fabric shows wear, s...
Upholstery, Teak
$4,125Sale Price|44% Off
H 28.75 in W 92.13 in D 31.5 in
Hans J Wegner "GE236/4" Sofa by GETAMA in Original Patched Leather Denmark 1950s
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Hans J Wegner "GE236/4" sofa by GETAMA in original patched leather, Denmark, 1950s Hans J Wegner "GE236 / 4" sofa - by GETAMA in original patched leather upholstery - Denmark 1950...
Teak, Leather
$2,400Sale Price|20% Off
H 30 in W 92 in D 32 in
Mid century Hans Wegner Sofa GE-236/4 GETAMA Solid Oak Frame
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage 1960s Danish Four-seat sofa model GE236/4 designed by Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA Manufacturer solid oak solid wood frame with original patina has original spring loaded cushio...
Upholstery, Wood, Oak
Early Daybed GE-258 in Oak and Cane by Hans J. Wegner
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in Handewitt, DE
Daybed GE-258 in oak by Hans J. Wegner for Getama Denmark 1954. Backrest in wicker cane. Original mattress with grey fabric. Early production 1950s. with beatiful patina and round legs.
Fabric, Cane, Oak
Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA Sofa in Oak and Blue Upholstery
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA, three-seat sofa, oak, fabric, Denmark, 1950s. This sofa is characterized by a splendid design that epitomizes a simplistic, natural and timeless aestheti...
Fabric, Oak
Danish Rocking Chair by Hans J. Wegner for Getama, oak, 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Berlin, DE
1960s Hans J. Wegner "Keyhole" Chair in Oak and Canvas A rare and refined example of Hans J. Wegner’s masterful design, this 1960s "Keyhole" chair embodies the Danish designer’s sig...
Canvas, Oak
Hans Wegner Ge-258 Daybed
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1960s, produced by Getama in Denmark. This piece has been fully restored with new cushions and 100% alpaca upholstery. There are some minor scuffs present and a couple chips to th...
Alpaca, Wood
Sold
H 25.2 in W 74.81 in D 29.93 in
Hans J. Wegner GE19 Daybed in Teak and Camel Leather for Getama Denmark 1960s
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Beautiful early Daybed Model GE19 designed by Hans J. Wegner for Getama Denmark 1960s. Teak frame with tapered legs and brass brackets in very good condition with minor traces of use...
Leather, Teak
Sold
H 28.35 in W 80.71 in D 35.44 in
Hans J. Wegner 1950s Danish Modern Daybed "Ge-268" Made at GETAMA
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA this convertible daybed / sofa features a beautifully patinated oak frame and wool upholstery. The back reveals a hidden space for blankets, pillow...
Wool, Oak
Hans Wegner Teak Daybed by Getama, Mid Century Modern
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Raleigh, NC
Simple to the point of perfection. A solid teak frame and newly upholstered leather cushion. A Danish modern icon in like new condition.
Leather, Teak
Hans Wegner Sofa Daybed for GETAMA
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in San Francisco, CA
Hans Wegner design sofa or daybed for GETAMA, Denmark. Restored cane headboard and refinished teak frame, retains the original mattress in good condition. Clever conversion from a so...
Upholstery, Cane, Teak
Sold
H 30.71 in W 77.17 in D 39.38 in
Hans J. Wegner 1950s Danish Modern Daybed "Ge-258" Made at GETAMA
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA this convertible daybed / sofa features a beautifully patinated oak frame and wool upholstery. The back reveals a hidden space for blankets, pillow...
Wool, Oak
Sold
H 26.78 in W 80.71 in D 35.44 in
Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA, "GE-258", Daybed in Teak, Danish Mid Century, 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Odense, DK
This model GE-258 Daybed, designed by Hans J. Wegner for GETAMA in the 1960s is crafted from teak with the original wool upholstery. The clean, minimalist design highlights Wegner's ...
Wool, Teak
Hans Wegner Ge-258 Daybed
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1960s, produced by Getama in Denmark. This piece has been fully restored with new cushions and emerald mohair. There are some minor scuffs present and a couple chips on the legs b...
Mohair, Wood
Sold
H 30.71 in W 77.17 in D 39.38 in
Hans J. Wegner 1950s Danish Modern Daybed "Ge-258" Made at GETAMA
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Designed by Hans Wegner for GETAMA this convertible daybed / sofa features a beautifully patinated oak frame and wool upholstery. The back reveals a hidden space for blankets, pillow...
Wool, Oak
Sold
H 24.41 in W 74.81 in D 29.93 in
Hans J. Wegner GE19 Daybed with Teak and Camel Leather for Getama Denmark 1960s
By GETAMA, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Beautiful early Daybed Model GE19 designed by Hans J. Wegner for Getama Denmark 1960s. Teak frame with tapered legs and brass brackets in very good condition with minor traces of use...
Leather, Teak
Sold
H 24.41 in W 74.81 in D 29.93 in
Hans J. Wegner GE19 Daybed with Oak and Cognac Leather for Getama Denmark 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Beautiful Daybed Model GE19 designed by Hans J. Wegner for Getama Denmark 1960s. Oak frame with tapered legs and brass brackets in very good condition with minor traces of use. Origi...
Leather, Oak
Pair of GE-236/3 Sofas in Oak by Hans J. Wegner
By Hans J. Wegner, GETAMA
Located in Handewitt, DE
Pair of GE-236 / 3 sofas in solid oak, designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1955. Manufactured by Getama in 1960s. Original cushions and orange/grey wool fabric by Ryghynde Denmark. This se...
Fabric, Oak