Scandinavian modernism is perhaps the warmest and most organic iteration of modernist design. The work of the designers associated with vintage Scandinavian modern furniture was founded on centuries-old beliefs in both quality craftsmanship and the ideal that beauty should enhance even the humblest accessories of daily life.
ORIGINS OF SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
CHARACTERISTICS OF SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
ICONIC SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
VINTAGE SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The gentle, organic contours that are typical of Scandinavian design appear in the furnishings and decor created by Danish, Finnish and Swedish designers not as a stylistic gesture, but rather as a practical, ergonomic — and, as importantly, elegant — response to the human form.
Each nation produced exceptional talents in all areas of the applied arts, yet each had its forté. Sweden was home to Greta Magnusson Grossman and Bruno Mathsson — creators of the classic Grasshopper lighting series and Berlin daybed, respectively — but the country excelled most notably at ceramics. In the 1920s at the great Gustavsberg porcelain manufactory, Wilhelm Kåge introduced pieces in the Scandinavian style based on influences from folklore to Cubism; his skills were passed on to his versatile and inspired pupils Berndt Friberg and Stig Lindberg.
Likewise, Finland produced a truly ingenious Scandinavian modern furniture designer in the architect Alvar Aalto, a master at melding function and artistic form in works like the Paimio chair, created in collaboration with his first wife, Aino. Yet Finnish glassware was pre-eminent, crafted in expressive, sculptural designs by Tapio Wirkkala and Timo Sarpaneva.
The Danes excelled at chairs. Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen were exemplars of the country’s facility with wood, particularly teak.
Wegner created such iconic pieces as the Round chair and the Wishbone chair; Jacobsen — while the revolutionary architect and furniture innovator produced the best-selling plywood Ant chair — designed two classic upholstered pieces of the 1950s: the Swan chair and Egg chair. The list of great Danes could go on and on, including Finn Juhl, a stylistic maverick and maker of the bold Chieftain chair; Poul Kjaerholm, with his lean metal-and-rattan aesthetic; and Verner Panton, who introduced a vibrant Pop note into international design.
Today, decades after their heyday, the prolific, ever-evolving Scandinavian modernists continue to amaze and delight, and interior designers all over the world use their pieces to bring warmth to any given space.
On 1stDibs, you will note both instantly recognizable vintage Scandinavian modern chairs, sofas, rugs and tables — those that have earned iconic status over time — and many new discoveries.
Carl Cederholm Daybed for Firma Stil & Form, Sweden, 1940s
Located in Eskilstuna, SE
A rare Scandinavian Modern daybed or canapé designed by Carl Cederholm for Firma Stil & Form in Stockholm, Sweden, during the 1940s. The daybed features an elegant asymmetrical, cur...
Fabric, Beech
Mogens Hansen, Mid-Century 3-Seater Sofa, Patinated Black Leather, 1970s
By Mogens Hansen, Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Børge Mogensen
Located in Odense, DK
A classic Danish Modern three-seater sofa upholstered in patinated black leather, resting on legs crafted from solid beech. With its clean lines, generous proportions, and inviting c...
Leather, Beech
Mogens Hansen, Mid-Century 2-Seater Sofa, Patinated Black Leather, 1970s
By Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Børge Mogensen, Mogens Hansen
Located in Odense, DK
A classic Danish Modern two-seater sofa upholstered in patinated black leather, resting on legs crafted from solid beech. With its clean lines, balanced proportions, and timeless com...
Leather, Beech
Danish Modern Daybed, Reupholstered, Made in Pine, by Nyt i Bo, 1970s
Located in Odense, DK
A large Danish mid century daybed in solid pine, reupholstered in grey wool. Made by a Danish company "Nyt i Bo" in 1970s. This daybed can also be used as ...
Wool, Pine
Rare Kaare Klint Box sofas in Mahogany & Niger Leather, Scandinavian Modern
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Kaare Klint & Rud Rasmussen snedkerier. A stunning pair of rare Kaare Klint Model no. 4118S two-seater box-shaped sofas with profiled cross legged mahogany frame. (Also called X-Bas...
Leather, Mahogany
$23,139 / item
'Studio' Sofa by Norr11, Modular Sofa, Setup 8, Beige
By Norr11
Located in Paris, IDF
STUDIO sofa by Kristian Sofus Hansen & Tommy Hyldahl for Nor11 Measures: setup 8 modules : 1 large, 1 medium, 1 small, 2 curve, 1 corner, 1 ottoman, 2 armrest) Measures: W. 406 cm / D. 400 cm / H. 70cm / seating H. 42cm Model shown: Barnum boucle 3 Modular sofa: assemble different modules to create your composition Wide range of fabrics and colors CAT 1: Fame CAT 2: Barnum, Breeze Fusion, Savoy CAT 3: Fiord, Hallingdal, Savanna, Zero*, Steelcut Trio, Moss, Safire CAT 4: Baru CAT 5: Dunes, Spectrum/Noir Introducing Studio, the newest sofa landscape in the NORR11 collection - a tribute to a timeless era of the 70s and its expressive aesthetics. Featuring a versatile but simple system of modules, appearing in limitless options to form numerous settings, shapes and styles to adhere to all types of environments. Whether for a small living setting or spacious public site. Studio is defined by its bold fluted upholstery characteristics inspired by late 1970s sofa styles...
Foam
Børge Mogensen 2209 sofa for Fredericia Furniture, 1970's
Located in LYON, FR
Three-seater sofa model 2209, timeless 1972 design by Børge Mogensen for renowned manufacturer Fredericia Furniture. This is Borge Mogensen's historic and exclusive manufacturer. Sti...
Leather
Stouby Møbelfabrik, Mid Century 2-Seater Sofa in Brown Leather, 1970s
By Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Mogens Hansen, Børge Mogensen
Located in Odense, DK
A classic Danish Modern two-seater sofa upholstered in brown leather, resting on legs made from solid beech. With its clean lines, balanced proportions, and timeless comfort, the pie...
Leather, Beech
Vintage sofa, Wool Upholstery and Teak. Denmark, C.1960
By Erik Ole Jørgensen, Fredericia Stolefabrik, Børge Mogensen, Kaare Klint
Located in Munster, NRW
A beautiful Danish sofa featuring its original ivory white plaid wool upholstery, complemented by elegant teak legs. Reminiscent of Borge Mogensen work. The cushions have been refres...
Wool, Teak
Two-Seater Sofa in Cognac Leather by Børge Mogensen for Fredericia Stolefabrik
Located in PARIS, FR
Elegant Danish two-seater sofa in cognac leather, model 2432, designed by Børge Mogensen for Fredericia Stolefabrik in the 1960s. This emblematic example of Scandinavian design is di...
Leather
Mid-Century Modern Danish Sofa Model CH 72 by Hans Wegner, New Production
By Carl Hansen & Søn, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Danish lounge chair model CH 71 by Hans Wegner. New production With its slender frame and flowing, sculptural form, Hans J. Wegner’s CH71...
Oak, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Sofa 2 Seats FD451 by Hvidt & Mølgaard-Nielsen
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern scandinavian sofa 2 seats FD451 by Peter Hvidty & Orla Mølgaard Nielsen for France and Søn. Teak and canne. New cover. Referenced by the Design Museum Danmark ...
Fabric, Teak
Danish Teak Three-Seater Sofa by Edvard Valentinsen for Fraska - 1960s
Located in BOULOGNE-BILLANCOURT, FR
Authentic Danish modern three-seater sofa designed by Edvard Valentinsen for Fraska in the 1960s. Beautifully crafted from solid teak, featuring elegant organic lines, gently curved...
Teak, Linen
Classical Carl Malmsten sofa 40s design, Green wool model "nya Berlin" original
By Carl Malmsten, Axel Einar Hjorth
Located in Forest, BE
This is a 3 seater long sofa in original green wool by master Carl Malmsten. The fabric is in good overall condition with some light traces. Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – Augus...
Pine
Very rare canapé by Carl Cederholm for Firma Stil & Form, Sweden, 1950s
Located in Eskilstuna, SE
Scandinavian modern daybed or canapé designed by Carl Cederholm for Firma Stil & Form. Stockholm, Sweden, 1940s-1950s. Original fabric with some stains.
Walnut
$23,139 / item
'Studio' Sofa by Norr11, Modular Sofa, Setup 8, White
By Norr11
Located in Paris, IDF
Studio sofa by Kristian Sofus Hansen & Tommy Hyldahl for Nor11. Measures: Setup 8 modules : 1 large, 1 medium, 1 small, 2 curve, 1 corner, 1 ottoman, 2 armrest) W. 406 cm / D. 4...
Foam
Mid-Century modern scandinavian sofa 2 seats FD451
By France & Søn, Hvidt & Mølgaard
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century modern scandinavian sofa 2 seats FD451 by Peter Hvidty & Orla Mølgaard Nielsen for France and Søn. Teak and canne. New cover. Referenced by the Design Museum Danmark und...
Fabric, Teak
$2,368Sale Price|24% Off
H 27.96 in W 64.18 in D 31.5 in
20th Century French Chocolate Brown Two-Seated Velvet Sofa with Set of Cushions
Located in Sofia, BG
20th century velvet sofa in chocolate brown with set of cushions. France, circa 1950.
Velvet
1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern 3 seater Leather Sofa
Located in Knebel, DK
1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern 3 seater leather sofa in the style of Børge Mogensen. The very comfortable Scandinavian Modern leather sofa with feathered seat-, back- and side cus...
Leather, Beech
$228,000 / set
H 34.65 in W 24.22 in D 22.25 in
Kaare Klint Original Rare Set of Ten '3758A' Armchairs in Niger Leather
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Kaare Klint for Rud. Rasmussens Snedkerier, set of ten armchairs, model '3758A', Niger leather, mahogany, brass, Denmark, design 1930, made 1950s These dining chairs in Niger leathe...
Brass
Italy Venezia Mid-18th Century Baroque Wooden Sofa
Located in Brescia, IT
Mid-18th Century hand-carved 1750 Venetian Baroque walnut sofa, three-seat with armrests. Remarkable work by Venetian cabinetmakers. The 18th C...
Walnut, Silk
French 1940s Canapé in Walnut Attributed to Maurice Jallot
Located in Paris, FR
Rare 1940s three-seat sofa in walnut. Elegant design and highly refined finishes. The structure is in good condition, the upholstery need to be redone.
Upholstery, Walnut
Kaare Klint Sofa, three seater, model 6092
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Kaare Klint sofa in green wool with white stripes. Legs of mahogany. Made by Rud Rasmussen, model 6092.
Wool, Mahogany
$2,400Sale Price|20% Off
H 30 in W 76 in D 32 in
Beautiful Mid century Danish Modern tan Leather 3 Seat Sofa great patina Stouby
By Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Børge Mogensen
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Great mid century Danish Scandinavian modern light tan leather 3 seat sofa with Square beech wood stained frame and legs. Style of Børge Mogensen. Nice thick light tan leather is sof...
Leather, Beech
$4,053
H 35.04 in W 78.75 in D 30.32 in
1940s Kaare Klint Three Seater Sofa, Hardwood Legs & Striped Wool Upholstery
Located in London, GB
1940s Kaare Klint Three Seater Sofa, with Mahogany Legs & Striped Wool Upholstery with Leather Trim. Usable condition. Bespoke quote ca...
Leather, Wool, Hardwood
Kaare Klint Large Striped Sofa
Located in London, GB
Oak framed Classic sofa designed by Kaare Klint and made by Mastercabinetmakers Rud Rasmussen. Beautiful crisscross frame-work. Original upholstery which will make a statement in any...
Upholstery, Mahogany
$17,150
H 29.53 in W 78.35 in D 37.41 in
Rare Golden Lacquer and Brass Maison Jansen Bouclé Sofa, 1970s
Located in Paris, IDF
An exciting example of French design firm Maison Jansen’s commissioned pieces. This sofa is made from solid mahogany, lacquered in a rich dark brown and bronze–golden finish. The res...
Brass
Carl Cederholm, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, Sweden, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A green fabric and dark-stained wood sofa designed by Carl Cederholm and produced by Stil & Form, Sweden, 1940s. Reupholstered in brand new fabric. Seat Height (inches): 17” A...
Fabric, Wood
Sofa DS-61 by De Sede, Switzerland, 1970s
By De Sede
Located in Stockholm, SE
Produced by De Sede, Switzerland, 1960s. Good vintage condition with signs of usage.
Leather
Swedish Sofa in Patinated Leather and Teak
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Sofa or settee, teak, leather, brass, Sweden, 1940s This classic sofa of Swedish origin features a graceful composition crafted from the finest materials. The composition of the cor...
Brass
Sold
H 29.53 in W 78.75 in D 30.71 in
Mid-20th Century, Swedish Three Seater Sofa in Pine by Carl Malmsten, 1960s
By O.H. Sjögren, Carl Malmsten
Located in Odense, DK
This stunning three-seater sofa is designed by Carl Malmsten and produced by O.H. Sjögren, dating from the 1960s. The model, Visingsö, is a celebrated example of Swedish mid-century ...
Wool, Pine
Sold
H 26.38 in W 54.34 in D 29.53 in
Vintage Danish Mid Century Modern Brown Leather Scandinavian Sofa, 1970s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This elegant, leather sofa was manufactured in Denmark during the 1960s. This project was made according to the model 2212 designed by Børge Mogensen for Fredericia. This classic sof...
Leather, Wood
Sold
H 28.94 in W 79.93 in D 33.86 in
Stouby Møbelfabrik, Mid Century 3-Seater Sofa in Brown Leather, Made in 1970s
By Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Børge Mogensen, Mogens Hansen
Located in Odense, DK
A classic Danish Mordern 3-seater sofa in brown leather, feets made in solid beech. Simple lines and a great comfort featured in this sofa. Designed by Stouby Møbelfabrik, Denmark. M...
Leather, Beech
Sold
H 29.53 in W 70.87 in D 29.53 in
Vintage Danish Midcentury Modern Scandinavian Brown Leather 3-Seater Sofa, 1950s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This three-seater Mid-Century Modern vintage sofa was made in Denmark during the 1950s. The sofa is upholstered in natural leather in a brown and earthy color. The leather has origin...
Leather, Wood
Sold
H 29.14 in W 61.03 in D 31.5 in
Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Ilona Sofa 2 Seater by Arne Norell
By Arne Norell
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Ilona sofa 2 seater by Arne Norell. The original designed by Arne Norell in 1971. Ilona was inspired by safari furniture...
Leather, Beech
Sold
H 25.99 in W 72.45 in D 31.5 in
Vintage Mid-Century Danish Modern Leather&Rosewood 3-Seat Sofa by Kurt Østervig
By Kurt Østervig, Centrum Møbler
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This leather three-seater sofa was designed by Kurt Østervig for the Danish manufacturer Centrum Møbler during the 1950s. It is model 55 from early productio...
Leather, Wood, Rosewood
Sold
H 19.69 in W 76.78 in D 38.59 in
Rare ‘Berlin’ daybed by Bruno Mathsson for Firma Karl Mathsson, Sweden 1969
By Firma Karl Mathsson, Bruno Mathsson
Located in Antwerp, BE
Rare ‘Berlin’ daybed designed by Bruno Mathsson for Firma Karl Mathsson, Sweden 1969. This first edition daybed has the original canvas upholstery with leather cognac buttons. The fr...
Beech
Sold
H 30.71 in W 104.34 in D 47.25 in
Elegant Four-Seat Danish Curved Sofa, 1940s, New Bouclé Fabric Upholstery
Located in Paris, FR
Large and elegant four-seat curved sofa manufactured in Denmark, in the 1940s. Very soft and comfortable seat. oak wood feet. This sofa is an original piece from the 1940s that has been fully restored and newly re-upholstered in the traditional way by the best French craftsmen, we used a high quality wool Bouclé fabric from the French House...
Sheepskin, Fabric, Wool, Bouclé, Upholstery, Wood
Sold
H 24.02 in W 76.78 in D 30.71 in
Swedish Mid-Century Modern Daybed/Sofa Made in Pine, Reupholstered, 1970s
Located in Odense, DK
A gorgeous freestanding daybed in solid pine with a drawer underneath. Reupholstered cushions in bouclé ish wool. Made by a Swedish cabinetmaker in 1970s. This daybed can also be used as a couch or a freestanding bed...
Pine, Wool
Ib Kofod Larsen: Kandidaten model sofa for OPE
Located in PARIS, FR
Kandidaten sofa by Ib Kofod Larsen for OPE (Olof Persons). The armrests of this sofa are made of oak and teak, they are also connected to the central s...
Oak, Teak
Sold
H 26.78 in W 88.59 in D 30.71 in
Vintage Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern Black Leather 3Seater Sofa from Ulferts
By Ulferts Swedish, Lennart Bender
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This elegant three-seater leather sofa was designed by Lennart Bender and produced by the Swedish Ulferts Tibro during the 1960s. The frame is made of solid oak wood. The sofa is finished with natural leather in a slightly shiny black color. The soft, loose seat and backrest cushions make comfort during use. The sofa perfectly match into the living room in a modern and classic style. The sofa has a signature. Lennart Bender is a Swedish designer who is well known for his design of the Krokus armchairs...
Leather, Oak