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Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

SCANDINAVIAN MODERN STYLE

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

  • Bold, clean lines and simple, sturdy symmetries
  • Use of natural materials — native woods such as pine, ash and beech
  • Open, airy spaces
  • Promotion of functionality
  • Emphasis on craftsmanship; rooted in cabinetry profession and traditional construction techniques
  • Minimal ornamentation (little to no embellishment)
  • A neutral or light color palette owing to prominence of light woods

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. 

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Style: Scandinavian Modern
Set of bookcases by Mogens Koch
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Large set of original bookcases by architect Mogens Koch for master carpenter Rud. Rasmussen. 12 bookcases shown here. We offer the bookcases...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Elm, Pine, Teak, Oak, Mahogany

FRAMA Contemporary Handcrafted Rivet Case
Located in Copenhagen, DK
The Rivet Case convinces with its solid and versatile design. It can be placed vertically as well as horizontally while functioning as a table, storage, or ...
Category

2010s Lithuanian Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mogens Koch Bookcases for Rud. Rasmussen
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Mogens Koch bookcases in Mahogany. Executed by Rud. Rasmussen. The reverse with paper labels ‘RUD. RASMUSSENS/SNEDKERIER/COPENHAGEN/DENMARK.
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Poul Cadovius for Royal System Wall System Book Shelves in Teak, Denmark, 1950s
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Large freestanding wall unit by Poul Cadovius for Royal system. With 4 black metal risers and teak veneer cabinets and shelves. 1x cabinet with sliding doors 42.5 x 37,5 x 160 cm ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Metal

Vintage Danish Rosewood Modular Wall Unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado 1960s
Located in Asaa, DK
Vintage Danish rosewood modular wall unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado 1960s Mid-Century Modern 3 bay shelving system model Cado. This is a original vintage floating bookcase designed ...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Vintage Danish rosewood modular wall unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado 1960s
Located in Asaa, DK
Vintage Danish rosewood modular wall unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado 1960s Mid-Century Modern 4 bay shelving system model Cado. This is a original vintage floating bookcase designed ...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Vintage Danish Teak Wall Unit by Kai Kristiansen for FM, 1960s
Located in Asaa, DK
Vintage Danish modular Teak wall unit by Danish architect Kai Kristiansen for Feldballes Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1960s Floating modular 4 bay shelving system model FM Reolsystem. This ...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Sculptural Freestanding Pine Shelve by Rainer Daumiller, 1970s
Located in Odense, DK
Rare freestanding shelving unit in solid pine. Designed by Rainer Daumiller for Hirtshals Savvaerk. Ca 1970s. A rare object with beautifu...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Pine

Classic Vintage Midcentury Scandinavian Danish Modern Rosewood Bookcase Cabinet
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This classic modernist cabinet was made in Denmark during the 1960s. Made of high-quality, noble rosewood. Its structure is very strong, with expressive graining. The pieces of furni...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood, Rosewood

Bookcase Made In Oak From 1890
Located in Lejre, DK
This tall bookcase in oak from 1890 year is an exemplary piece of furniture craftsmanship with both elegance and functionality. It is equipped with a lower sideboard with two cabinet...
Category

1890s Danish Antique Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Oak

Original vintage wooden bookcase
Located in Brescia, IT
Particular Scandinavian bookcase made of oak wood. The linearly designed structure shows open shelving units varying in height and size. This multiplicity of shelves offers a variet...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Modern Danish vitrine bookcase in mahogany by HW Klein
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Danish vitrine bookcase in mahogany by HW Klein for Bramin
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Modular shelving system BO71 in teak by Finn Juhl
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Modular shelving system BO71 in teak by Finn Juhl for Bovirke in the 1960s. Comprising 3 columns, 4 rules, 1 unit with 6 drawers, a writing desk, 13 Oregon pine shelves, and 22 brass...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage birch bookcase cabinet
Located in Brescia, IT
Small 1960s entryway cabinet with double shelf. A piece of furniture with clean lines and a retro feel that traces the mid-century Scandinavian style. Ideal for the entryway but als...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Birch

Book Case System by Børge Mogensen for FDB Møbler 1960s
Located in Handewitt, DE
Large book case system, model no.152 by Børge Mogensen for FDB Møbler. Made in teak. He designed his China Series in 1960s. Produced i1960s. Nice patina and teak color. Note: Pleas...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Mogens Koch for Rud Radmussen Modular Library in Mahogany
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Mogens Koch for Rud Rasmussen, modular book case or library, mahogany, Denmark, 1950s Intriguing and substantial modular library by Danish designer Mogens Koch. This piece is constr...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Entryway console with drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
Low Scandinavian bookcase from the 1960s, made of fine teak, is an expression of minimalism and elegance. With its linear design and smooth surfaces, it provides open spaces for book...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Cado Wall rosewood shelving unit by Poul Cadovious
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Cado shelving system by Poul Cadovius in Rio rosewood composed of: - 4 rack panels: H 202 cm - 5 shelves: H 2 cm x W 80 cm x D 22 cm - 1 box with 4 niches, colored blue, gray and ...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Vintage teak bookcase with sideboard
Located in Brescia, IT
With a generous combination of open shelves and wide doors, it offers the perfect blend of display and storage. The high quality of the material and care in the workmanship make it a...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage Danish Modular Teak Wall Unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado, 1960s.
Located in Asaa, DK
Vintage Danish Modular Teak Wall Unit by Poul Cadovius for Cado, 1960s. Mid-Century Modern 5 bay shelving system model Cado. This is a original vintage floating bookcase designed by...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian bookcase with display case
Located in Brescia, IT
Vintage open bookcase with storage compartment. This Swedish bookcase reflects in taste and lines the craftsmanship of 1960s Scandinavian design. Consists of a display case, open sh...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Vintage teak open bookcase
Located in Brescia, IT
1960s Scandinavian bookcase. This piece of furniture is an example of clean, functional design that characterizes the era of modernism. Its teak wood frame, features shelves of vari...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Nordic bookcase with sideboard
Located in Brescia, IT
This Scandinavian bookcase from the 1960s is a masterpiece of design and functionality. With top shelves for displaying books and art objects, it is complemented by drawers and doors...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Original vintage Nordic bookcase
Located in Brescia, IT
With its slender frame and sliding doors, this Swedish bookcase is a classic example of Scandinavian design from the 1950s and 1960s. Its shelves provide ample space for books and de...
Category

1950s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage bookcase with storage compartment
Located in Brescia, IT
Scandinavian 1960s teak and birch furniture. This cabinet with built-in bookcase, created in the midst of the Scandinavian style of the 1960s, combines the functionality of an enclo...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Birch, Teak

Scandinavian bookcase with flap door
Located in Brescia, IT
Its open shelves allow books and objects to be elegantly displayed, while the folding door reveals hidden space, perfect for storing documents or electronic equipment. The clean line...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Pine

Swedish bookcase with lockable doors
Located in Brescia, IT
The shelves of this Swedish bookcase, help keep books and decorative items in order, while the doors below hide generous compartments for storing the less aesthetic elements of daily...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Original 1960s vintage bookcase
Located in Brescia, IT
This bookcase with four shelves and lockable door is a functional interpretation of the Scandinavian tradition. Made of warm tone wood, it provides a convenient arrangement for books...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

1950s Art Deco bookcase with drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
Mahogany sideboard with two drawers and lockable hinged door. A piece that reflects the sophistication of mid-century design through its modern lines and retro flavor. The drawers p...
Category

1950s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Danish teak bookcase with drop-down desk
Located in Brescia, IT
Vintage 1960s cabinet with shelving and storage compartment. This Scandinavian bookcase with drop-down door is a perfect example of Scandinavian design that aims to combine aestheti...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Bookcase with storage compartment produced by Bodafors
Located in Brescia, IT
Scandinavian furniture from the 1960s that combines elegance and practicality. The warmth of the teak frame blends with a design that prioritizes usability: open shelves for books a...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Oak bookcase with 6 drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
Vintage Scandinavian chest of drawers with shelving. Featuring six drawers that provide ample space to carefully organize personal items, it has open shelves that invite the arrange...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage bookcase with shelves and drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
1960s teak cabinet from the Bodafors company. A Scandinavian piece of furniture with a simple and functional design. Consisting in the lower part of a chest of drawers with 4 drawer...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood, Burl

Skovby Danish Modern Teak Lighted Glass Front Triple Bookcase on Hairpin Legs
Located in South Bend, IN
A sleek mid-century Danish Modern triple bookcase cabinet By Skovby Møbelfabrik Denmark, Circa 1970s Teak, with glass front doors and interior shelves and steel hairpin legs. Inte...
Category

1970s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Steel

Vintage Danish Mid Century Modern Teak Bookcase by Johannes Sorth
Located in San Marcos, CA
Here is a beautiful scandinavian modern bookcase in teak designed by Johannes Sorth and manufactured by Nexxo Mobelfabrik in Denmark in the 1960's. This lovely case piece, recently i...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Bookcase
Located in VANCOUVER, CA
Teak mid-century bookcase, circa 1960s. Low profile design with adjustable shelf, can be hung at 7 different heights. A perfect condo sized storage solution. *6 available, construct...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Bookcase
Located in VANCOUVER, CA
Teak mid-century bookcase, circa 1960s. Low profile design with adjustable shelf, can be hung at 7 different heights. A perfect condo sized storage solution. *6 available, construct...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian Modern Rosewood "Pega" Bookcase by Ib Juul Christiansen, 1970s.
Located in Asaa, DK
Scandinavian Modern Rosewood "Pega" Wall Unit by Ib Juul Christiansen, 1970s. Large 3 bay Mid-Century Modern shelving system designed by Danish architect Ib Ju...
Category

1970s Norwegian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Danish Mide-Century Teak Cabinet
Located in VANCOUVER, CA
Teak Danish cabinet, circa 1960's. Cute & compact condo sized beauty! Lovely grain patterns, metal finger pulls, tapered contrasting legs and removable shelf. Bottom side edges have ...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Pair of China Bookcases in Rosewood by Børge Mogensen, Made in Denmark, 1960s
Located in Lejre, DK
Pair rare of bookcases in rosewood with adjustable shelves, designed by Maa. Børge Mogensen for C.M. Madsen cabinetmakers in 1958. Made in Denmark in the 1960s.
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Teak Bookcase - 022471 Vintage Danish Mid Century
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Mid century MCintosh bookcase, Hairpin legs
Located in BRUNOY, FR
Vintage English bookcase from the 1960's - 70's, MCintosh brand. Scandinavian-style vintage English bookcase from the 1960s-70s mounted on contemporary metal legs. This narrow vintage bookcase...
Category

1960s English Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Metal

Bookcase with small sideboard
Located in Brescia, IT
This Scandinavian teak wood bookcase, dating from the mid-century design period, offers a combination of aesthetics and functionality. At the top, three spacious shelves are illumina...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage Danish Mid Century Long Westergaard Rosewood Bookcase - 022482
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage teak bookcase with drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
This 1964 Scandinavian bookcase, constructed of teak wood, combines elegance and practicality. At the bottom, four drawers with handles carved directly into the wood provide space fo...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Bookcase with oak drawers
Located in Brescia, IT
Nordic oak bookcase, dating from the 1960s, combines simplicity of design with everyday functionality. The cabinet has three drawers with carved wooden handles. The open, airy upper ...
Category

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Vintage Danish Mid Century Long Teak Bookcase - 0224111
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Bookcase/Cabinet
Located in VANCOUVER, CA
Teak Danish bookcase/cabinet, circa 1960's. Backless top with 3 adjustable shelves allows your wall color to show through, for a light, airly feel. Locking cabinet with height adjust...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Suspended bookcase designed by Josef Frank manufactured by Svenskt Tenn 1950s
Located in Brescia, IT
Rare hanging bookcase designed by Josef Frank in the 1950s in mahogany wood. Produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden in the 1950s. Good conditions. A conservative restoration was done w...
Category

1950s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Danish Modern Rosewood Bookcase
Located in VANCOUVER, CA
Rosewood Danish bookcase, circa 1960's. Lovely graining, height adjustable shelf with 5 hanging options. Removable tapered legs. Nice as is condition! Unrestored item with option to...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Vintage Danish Mid Century Teak Bookcase - 022411
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Set of Four Bookcases in Elm by Mogens Koch, Danish Design, Midcentury, 1960s
Located in Lejre, DK
4 matching bookcases in solid elm designed by Mogens Koch for Rud. Rasmussen cabinetmakers in 1933. Made in Denmark and in all original condition. Each bookcase is D 36cm / 28 CM, W ...
Category

1930s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Elm

Vintage Danish Mid Century Teak Secretary Bookcase - 022410
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage Danish Mid Century Teak Bookcase - 022403
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Vintage Danish mid-century modern, made in the 1950's - Recently refurbished The piece is more than 65+ years old and some wear and tear can be expected, but we do everything we can...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Axel Einar Hjorth "Lovö" Shelf in Pine for Nordiska Kompaniet Sweden, 1930s
Located in Stockholm, SE
Rare Scandinavian modern bookcase / shelf model "Lovö" by Axel Einar Hjorth produced by Nordiska Kompaniet Stockholm, 1930s. In good original condition aquired from the original owne...
Category

1930s Swedish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Pine

Danish freestanding vintage bookshelf system/ book case teak by Omman Jun , 1960
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish freestanding vintage bookshelf system/ book case teak by Gunni Omann Jun , 1960s Design : Danish design by the designer Omman Jun Dimensions: Height: 188 cm Width: 120 cm...
Category

1960s Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish freestanding vintage bookshelf system/ book case teak by Hundevad , 1960s
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Danish freestanding vintage bookshelf system/ book case teak by Hundevad , 1960s Dimensions: Height: 195 cm Width: 70 cm Depth: 31 cm It is in good vintage condition, however, ...
Category

1960s Danish Vintage Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Book Case by Børge Mogensen for FDB Møbler 1960s China Series
Located in Handewitt, DE
Book case, model no.152 by Børge Mogensen for FDB Møbler. Teak shelve on solid oak base. He designed his China Series in 1960s. Produced i1960s. Note: Please have a look on the matching cabinet and large book case...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Oak, Teak

Scandinavian Modern bookcases for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Scandinavian Modern bookcases for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage bookcases created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include case pieces and storage cabinets, seating, tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, hardwood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Scandinavian Modern bookcases made in a specific country, there are Europe, Scandinavia, and Denmark pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original bookcases, popular names associated with this style include Rud Rasmussen, Mogens Koch, Børge Mogensen, and Poiat. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for bookcases differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $264 and tops out at $80,865 while the average work can sell for $2,812.

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