Ib Kofod-Larsen Dining Chairs

Furniture maker and architect Ib Kofod-Larsen was one of the greatest design minds to emerge from mid-century Denmark, and his impact was felt across the world, especially in the United States. Kofod-Larsen, who is known for his exemplary seating, tables and storage solutions, understood that the attention to detail, quality materials and functional design ethos of the Scandinavian modernism style he followed would become part of a major international movement.

Due to his foresight and innovation, Kofod-Larsen was one of the best-selling Danish designers in the U.S. in the 1950s, when mid-century modernism was at its most popular.

Originally trained as a cabinetmaker, Kofod-Larsen later studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and was most interested in designing practical yet graceful furniture, although he also dabbled in things like wallpaper and textiles. He favored natural grains and woods like teak and rosewood combined with leather, steel and fabric upholsteries to create inviting pieces. Working with manufacturers such as Faarup Møbelfabrik, Christensen & Larsen and Bovenkamp, he brought his sculptural aesthetic to the world.

Some of his seating designs have earned legendary status: The U-56 chair (1956) was renamed the Elizabeth because England’s Queen Elizabeth II is said to have picked up a pair during a 1958 trip to Denmark. With OPE Möbler, he created the Seal chair (1956) with a wooden frame shaped around leather upholstery. The sculptural Penguin chair (1953), produced by Selig and named for its curved back, became Denmark’s most frequently exported piece of furniture to the U.S. at the time. Its bentwood shell echoes the work of Kofod-Larsen’s modernist contemporaries Eero Saarinen and Charles and Ray Eames, while its options as a dining, lounging and rocking chair offer versatility for the home.

As mid-century modern furniture experiences a fresh wave of popularity in the U.S. — although, one could argue that it never really went away — Kofod-Larsen’s timeless pieces are among the most coveted vintage finds. Several of his designs continue to be produced, such as the Penguin chair, which has been manufactured by Brdr. Petersen since 2012.

Find vintage Ib Kofod-Larsen furniture today on 1stDibs.

Danish furniture manufacturer Uldum Møbelfabrik has worked with many of the leading designers of Scandinavian modernism to bring their visions to life. They include the thoughtful mid-century modern work of Danish designer Johannes Andersen, renowned for his sophisticated use of high-quality wood for seating and tables. 

Andersen’s designs with Uldum Møbelfabrik maximized functionality without sacrificing a sense of fluidity in their shape. Typical of Scandinavian modern design, many of the center tables and dining chairs Andersen created with Uldum Møbelfabrik used a range of hardwoods such as teak or rosewood. Designers and manufacturers alike have favored these materials for their durability and stunning wood grains.

20th-century Danish manufacturers and designers were masters of seating, especially chairs. Uldum Møbelfabrik chairs encapsulate all the hallmarks of Scandinavian design, offering curving lines, exceptional comfort and unparalleled quality. 

On 1stDibs, find a collection of seating, tables, and case pieces and storage cabinets.