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Teak Credenzas

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Material: Teak
Danish MCM teak credenza sideboard by Falster Denmark circa 1970
Located in Sayreville, NJ
Danish Teak Credenza By Falster Denmark Clean lines and tons of storage, this piece is in fantastic original condition with minor wear. 60”L x 18 1/2” D x 30” H Please contact us ...
Category

1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Expertly Restored-Ib Kofod-Larsen "Jutland" Teak Credenza for Brande Møbelfabrik
Located in Los Angeles, CA
________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...
Category

1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Arne Hovmand - Olsen Teak Credenza / Server Denmark
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A very well crafted teak wood credenza / server fashioned by the early cabinetmakers in Denmark with exceptional wood graining the doors . Sculptural pulls to the fronts of the four...
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Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Original Mid Century Modern G Plan Teak Fresco Long 4 Door Drawer Credenza 1966
Located in Portland, OR
A fine & long Mid-Century Modern Danish Style Teak Credenza by G Plan, from the "Fresco" range, 1966. The credenza having a central bank of four graduated drawers flanked by cup...
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1960s English Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Børge Mogensen Teak Sideboard with China Legs of Oak Made for FDB Møbler 1950s
Located in Silkeborg, Silkeborg
Danish architect Børge Mogensen (1914-1972) sideboard with china legs and 2 doors, inside drawers and adjustable shelves. The cabinet is made of teak outside, the frame and legs of ...
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1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Swedish light Teak Credenza by Erik Worts
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid Century Modern Swedish Teak Credenza with 4 drawers and 2 sliding doors by Erik Worts. Has a with a pair of sliding doors opening to adjustable shelves centering four drawers. Si...
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Late 20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Credenza by Florence Knoll for Knoll International with Calacatta Gold Marble
Located in Dallas, TX
Credenza designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll International, 1961. This example is in excellent condition, constructed with teak featuring five drawers, chromed steel base, and the o...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Sideboard in Teak by H.P. Hansen, Denmark, 1960s
Located in Ranst, VAN
This magnificent sideboard is produced by H.P. Hansen in Denmark in the 1960s. There are two sliding doors, four drawers and shelves. The sideboard is finished in teak and is in very...
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Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Expertly Restored - Axel Christiansen Teak Tambour-Door Credenza for Aco Mobler
Located in Los Angeles, CA
________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...
Category

1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Expertly Restored - Hans J. Wegner RY-20 Teak Wood Credenza with Glass Doors
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Hans J. Wegner RY-20 Teak Credenza with Glass Doors for Ry Mobler Manufacturer Ry Mobler ________________________________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mi...
Category

1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Glass, Wood, Teak

1960s Mid Century Modern English 2-Tier Hutch Sideboard Credenza by Nathan
Located in Chapel Hill, NC
1960s mid century modern 2-tier hutch sideboard credenza by Nathan, England. Teak. "Nathan Quality" label intact. Upper section with sliding glass doors & glass shelf by drop down dr...
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Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Modern Teak Credenza Sideboard made in Denmark for Maurice Villency
Located in New York, NY
Mid Century Danish Modern credenza, sideboard, server. This server features two sliding doors, which open to open storage, flanked by a bank of four drawers. Made in Denmark for Maur...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Svend A. Larsen Tambour-Door Teak Credenza for Faarup Møbelfabrik
Located in Los Angeles, CA
________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...
Category

1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Vintage 60s Teak sideboard sideboard Barovero design
Located in None, IT
Teak wood sideboard with black top, with double side doors and central drawers, Barovero design, 1960s. CONDITION: In good condition, may show signs of wear given by time. DIMENSIO...
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1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Credenza by Florence Knoll for Knoll International With Carrara Marble
Located in Dallas, TX
Credenza designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll International, 1961. This example is in excellent condition, constructed with teak featuring ten drawers, chromed steel base, and the or...
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

1970s vintage Teak wood sideboard Danish
Located in None, IT
Teak wood sideboard, has 19 internal drawers and three sliding doors; The external doors are equipped with a key lock. Danish design, 1970s. Conditions: In good condition, it show...
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1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Modern Danish Teak sliding door credenza
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid Century Danish Modern Scandinavian teak credenza in the style of Børge Mogensen. Sliding doors open to interior with (2) adjustable or removable shelves - (1) on each side. Made ...
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1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid century Danish Modern Long Teak Credenza with Tambour Doors Kofod Larsen
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Stunning teak long mid-century Danish modern teak with (2) Tambour doors credenza sideboard by Kofod Larsen. Beautiful Pair of tambour doors reveal (3) adjustable Shelves and (1) fel...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Danish MCM Tambor Roll Front Teak Credenza Cabinet Kai Kristiansen Feldballes
Located in Portland, OR
A good diminuitive tambor roll front Danish Mid Century Modern teak cabinet/credenza, circa 1960, by Kai Kristiansen for Feldballes Møbelfabrik. The cabinet is of diminuitive form and has twin tambor roll-front doors, enclosing four storage areas, the cabinet is raised on circular tapered legs. The cabinet is made from figured grain teak and is in excellent condition, this elegant & classic MCM cabinet...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Expertly Restored -Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenza by Carlo Jensen for Hundevad
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Danish Modern credenza designed by Carlo Jensen for Hundevad Co. in Denmark circa 1960’s. This compact credenza includes tapered solid teak wood legs and two doors with a vintage key...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Birch, Teak

Arne Vodder for Sibast 75" Tambour Door Credenza/Cabinet in Teak Made in Denmark
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed by Danish icon Arne Vodder, this wonderful cabinet was produced by Sibast, the producer of some of the most iconic pieces ever made, such as the Bovirke Chaise. This cabinet...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Modern Inspired Low-Profile Teak Wood Credenza by Artisanal
Located in New York, NY
A seamless blend of modern minimalism and functional elegance, this low-profile credenza is a refined storage solution designed for contemporary interiors. Its streamlined silhouette...
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2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Mid-Century Modern Teak Wood Media Credenza/ Media Console by Artisanal
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your living space with this handcrafted solid teak wood media console, blending mid-century aesthetics with modern functionality. Featuring smooth rounded edges, tapered legs...
Category

2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Mid Century Danish Modern Teak Gunni Omann 94 inch Credenza with 4 Drawers
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid century Danish modern Teak gunni omann long credenza. Has 4 drawers with felt inside and 3 sliding doors. Plenty of storage room inside this 94" long Credenza. Has pin holes for ...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Solid Wood Credenza/ Media Console by Artisanal
Located in New York, NY
Designed for both elegance and functionality, this modern teak wood credenza is a refined addition to any living space. Showcasing a sleek mid-century aesthetic, it blends natural wa...
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2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

H. P. Hansen Teak Credenza
Located in Philadelphia, PA
H.P. Hansen Teak Credenza with sliding doors and center drawers. Beautiful shape with top newly refinished. 86" long with tons of useful storage! Upper display Cabinet can be purc...
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1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian Mid Century Danish Modern light oak 4 drawer 2 door credenza
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Scandinavian Mid Century Danish Modern light oak 4 drawer 2 door credenza. Beautiful sideboard in light oak that has (4) drawer and (2) sliding doors with 2 adjustable shelves. Inter...
Category

1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Oak, Teak

1950s Teak Buffet, Credenzas By Carl Löfving & Söner, Sweden
By Carl Löfving & Söner
Located in Silvolde, Gelderland
Extremely beautiful and high quality buffet cabinet / credenzas with seven drawers and an extendable shelf allover in very good condition designed by Kurt Karlsson for Löfvings & Sön...
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1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Hans Wegner for Ry Mobler Credenza Wall Unit, Teak, 1958
Located in Culver City, CA
Step into the mid-century magic with this Hans Wegner-designed wall unit from Ry Mobler, a true vintage gem born on April 28, 1958 (it's birthday is stamped on the back of the piece)...
Category

1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Tambour-Door Credenza Signed Peter Løvig Nielsen, 1965
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Elegant credenza designed and manufactured by Peter Løvig Nielsen in Denmark, dated 1965. Featuring a teak wood construction with seamless tambour doors adorned with subtle aluminum-accented pulls. The doors open smoothly to reveal ample storage room within; five dovetailed trays located in the middle compartment with two shelves on the left, and one large shelf on the right. Whether you are storing linens and silverware or using it as a media console, this piece is versatile enough to be use...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Metal

Midcentury Italian Gianfranco Frattini Two Tier Teak Sideboard
Located in Troy, MI
Found in Italy, this circa 1960s teak sideboard is attributed to Gianfranco Frattini. Unusual two tier design with the tallest section consisting of a cabinet with a fold down door a...
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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Tambour Door Credenza in Teak by Bernhard Pedersen
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Denmark Designer: Bernhard Pedersen Manufacturer: Bernhard Pedersen + Søn Era: 1960s Materials: Teak Measurements: 82.5″ wide x 20″ deep x 31.5″ tall
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Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Large Teak Credenza by A. Younger Ltd
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: England Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: A Younger Ltd Era: 1960s Materials: Afromosia Measurements: 84″ wide x 18″ deep x 32″ tall Condition: In excellent original condition...
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Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Bloom Marquetry Bar Credenza
Located in New York, US
A centerpiece in any space, the Bloom Cabinet is crafted from a combination of teak and walnut, creating a beautiful contrast. Inspired by hibiscus flower, each petals are brought to...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indonesian Post-Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Mahogany, Oak, Teak, Walnut

1960's Mid-century Danish Teak Credenza with Doors and Drawers
Located in Oakland, CA
1960s Danish teak credenza crafted with three sliding doors and series of four drawers, each adorned with angled triangular pulls, raised on tapered legs. The interior is made of cub...
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Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Modern Wooden Credenza by Artisanal
Located in New York, NY
Elegantly crafted with clean lines and warm wood tones, this mid-century modern credenza is a timeless statement piece that seamlessly blends functionality with refined aesthetics. D...
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2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Wood, Teak

Danish Modern Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen Two Level Tambour Cabinet
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Danish Modern cabinet with two-level tambour doors, designed by Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen for Søborg Møbelfabrik. The tambour doors slide smoothly to reveal a well-organize...
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1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Style Credenza
Located in Denton, TX
Made by G Plan in England low four door teak credenza with one shelf on each side.
Category

20th Century English Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Mahogany, Teak

Scandinavian Modern Teak Tambour Credenza
Located in Trenton, NJ
This Vintage Teak Office Credenza is a sophisticated blend of Scandinavian modern design and timeless elegance, crafted with exquisite teak finish. This vintage office credenza...
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Late 20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Modern Teak Credenza, Cambre Collection for Craft Associates
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Designer: Laura Trenchard Manufacturer: Craft Associates Modern Furniture Period/Model: Mid-Century Modern Specs: Maple, teak Dimensions H 30.25 (76.84cm) L 78 (198.12cm) D 18 (45...
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2010s American Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Maple, Teak

Danish Mid Century Modern Teak 6 Drawers Dresser Credenza Recessed Pulls MINT!
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Danish Mid Century Modern Teak 6 Drawers Dresser Credenza Recessed Pulls MINT!
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20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian modern danish teak 4 door credenza
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Scandinavian Danish Modern teak credenza on a plinth base with four doors which open to three cabinets with adjustable shelving beside a cabinet with three small drawers over two la...
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1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Credenza Bar Cabinet
Located in Miami, FL
All original gorgeous Mid-Century Modern teak and maple cabinet from the 1960s. The vintage Danish sideboard features a pair of sliding doors, each with a sculpted teak handle, openi...
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1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Maple, Teak

Mid-Century Danish Modern Teak Credenza by H.P. Hansen
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This mid-century Danish modern teak credenza by H.P. Hansen is a clean-lined, well-balanced piece with timeless appeal. At 79” long, it’s generously sized without feeling bulky—thank...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid-century Scandinavian Low Teak Sideboard Media Credenza
Located in Oakland, CA
Handcrafted from beautifully grained old-growth teak, this mid-century Danish low credenza features two sliding doors that open to reveal a mahogany interior with adjustable shelves....
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Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Sophisticated Teak Credenza
Located in South Charleston, WV
Unmarked but probably made by D-Scan. A large credenza boating volumes of storage for living room or office. Measures nearly 20" deep, 78.5" wide and 29.5" tall. A fine Danish Mi-Cen...
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Late 20th Century Singaporean Scandinavian Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Large Mcintosh Dunvegan Credenza In Teak #2
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Scotland Designer: Val Rossi Manufacturer: McIntosh Era: 1960s Materials: Teak Dimensions: 79” wide x 18” deep x 30” tall Condition: In good ...
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20th Century Scottish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Danish Modern Large Scale Cabinet, Chest or Credenza in Teak
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A stunning Scandinavian cabinet from the 1960's. This sleek piece features gorgeous book-matched teak wood, large door and six drawers with tons of interior storage space. Nice shall...
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1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

1950s Professionally Restored Dux Mid Century Danish Modern Teak Credenza
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Danish Modern Teak Sideboard "Ulvö" by Yngve Ekström for Dux, 1959 Discover timeless elegance with this stunning Scandinavian modern teak sideboard, model "Ulvö," designed by the re...
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1950s Swedish Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Vintage Sculptural Danish Teak H.P. Hansen Sideboard Credenza
Located in San Jose, CA
Mid Century Modern sideboard credenza by H.P. Hansen in teak, circa 1960s, made in Denmark. This showcase piece features sliding doors accessorized with sculptural handles. Offers pl...
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1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Rare Teak Credenza by Niels Moller, Danish Modern, 1960s
Located in Raleigh, NC
A stunning rare example from Neils Moller from the 1960s. Teak cabinet with beautiful coved top and simple refined details. Plenty of storage with open cabinets and drawers.
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Johannes Andersen for Uldum Mid Century Danish Teak Tambour Door Credenza
Located in Countryside, IL
Johannes Andersen for Uldum Mid Century Danish Teak Tambour Door Credenza This credenza measures: 96.5 wide x 20 deep x 33 inches high All pieces of furniture can be had in what we...
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1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Tambour Doors Long Dresser Credenza by Dyrlund
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Teak Danish Mid-Century Modern tambour doors credenza dresser.
Category

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Double Tier Danish Mid Century Credenza in Teak + Oak
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Denmark Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Teak, Oak Measurements: 61" wide x 17.5" deep x 62" tall
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Oak, Teak

Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Low 4 Drawers Sliding Doors Compartment Credenza
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern take long condenser dresser. with two sliding doors compartment adjustable shelves and four drawers. Made in Denmark for Maurice Villency.
Category

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Palle Suenson, Two Part Wall Cabinet
Located in San Francisco, CA
Palle Suenson, two part wall cabinet An extremely rare two part wall hanging cabinet by Danish Architect Palle Suenson in the 1940s. The upper section is...
Category

1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Mahogany, Teak

Danish Teak Tambour Doors Long Credenza Dresser Server with Glass Doors Hutch
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Danish Mid-Century Modern finished back teak long credenza with sliding glass doors hutch.
Category

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Glass, Teak

Credenza by Florence Knoll for Knoll International With Carrara Marble
Located in Dallas, TX
Credenza designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll International, 1961. This example is in excellent condition, constructed with teak, featuring five drawers, chromed steel base, and the ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Younger "Fonseca" Credenza In Teak + Afromosia
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: England Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: A. Younger Ltd Era: 1960s Materials: Teak, Afromosia Measurements: 82.5″ wide x 19.5″ deep x 30″ tall Condition: In excellent original...
Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Teak Credenzas

Materials

Teak

A teak and metal credenza made by Barraja Palermo, Italy, 1950s
Located in Chiavari, Liguria
This sideboard, crafted from painted metal and teak, featuring internal doors and drawers, represents an exemplary piece of Italian craftsmanship under the distinguished marque "Barr...
Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Credenzas

Materials

Metal

Find Vintage Mid-Century Teak Credenzas and Other Storage Furniture on 1stDibs

Antique and vintage credenzas can add an understated touch of grace to your home. These long and sophisticated cabinet-style pieces of furniture can serve a variety of purposes, and they look great too.

In Italy, the credenza was originally a small side table used in religious services. Appropriately, credere in Italian means “to believe.” Credenzas were a place to not only set the food ready for meals, they were also a place to test and taste prepared food for poison before a dish was served to a member of the ruling class. Later, credenza was used to describe a type of versatile narrow side table, typically used for serving food in the home. In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard — in fact, the terms credenza and sideboard are used almost interchangeably today.

Credenzas usually have short legs or no legs at all, and can feature drawers and cabinets. And all kinds of iterations of the credenza have seen the light of day over the years, from ornately carved walnut credenzas originating in 16th-century Tuscany to the wealth of Art Deco credenzas — with their polished surfaces and geometric patterns — to the array of innovative modernist interpretations that American furniture maker Milo Baughman created for Directional and Thayer Coggin.

The credenza’s blend of style and functionality led to its widespread use in the 20th century. Vintage mid-century teak credenzas and other mid-century modern credenzas are particularly popular — take a look at Danish furniture designer Arne Vodder’s classic Model 29, for instance, with its reversible sliding doors and elegant drawer pulls. Hans Wegner, another Danish modernist, produced strikingly minimalist credenzas in the 1950s and ’60s, as did influential designer Florence Knoll. Designers continue to explore new and exciting ways to update this long-loved furnishing.

Owing to its versatility and familiar low-profile form, the credenza remains popular in contemporary homes. Unlike many larger case pieces, credenzas can be placed under windows and in irregularly shaped rooms, such as foyers and entryways. This renders it a useful storage solution. In living rooms, for example, a credenza can be a sleek media console topped with plants and the rare art monographs you’ve been planning to show off. In homes with open floor plans, a credenza can help define multiple living spaces, making it ideal for loft apartments.

Browse a variety of antique, new and vintage credenzas on 1stDibs to find the perfect fit for your home today.

Shop Antique, New and Vintage Teak Furniture Today

Antique, new and vintage teak furniture has enduring classic appeal.

While teak sideboards, lounge chairs and coffee tables are luxurious additions to any living room or other interior space, teak outdoor furniture dazzles on patios and by the pool — teak is durable and strong, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Whether you're indoors or outside, furnishings made of this tropical hardwood tree species have long been popular with design enthusiasts of all kinds.

Appreciated for its dense grain and rich luster, old-growth teak was a sought-after material among mid-century modern designers, who also pushed it to the brink of extinction.

“Teak is incredibly slow-growing, so much of what is still harvested is young, and from a sustainability standpoint, this is far from ideal,” says Brian Volk-Zimmerman of Volk Furniture in Brooklyn. When he does use it, he only goes for reclaimed teak, as many species of the tree have been over-forested.

It wasn’t always this way. In the previous century, according to Jenny Cashin — owner of the shop Mid-Century Modern Home, in British Columbia — Danish designers, and Scandinavian modernists in general, harvested teak as much as they liked. This enhanced their pieces’ handcrafted look and came to define the timeless simple shapes of mid-century modern design. “We still see current teak deck furniture that’s very porous and light,” says Cashin, who specializes in Danish modern and mid-century modern furniture made between 1940 and 1970. However, she notes, “it’s not the same caliber.”

Old-growth teak, aged 150 to 500 years old, is far denser, with a pronounced telltale grain, Cashin says. Though she can’t speak to why it found favor with Danish designers like Jens Risom, an incredibly accomplished, still-obscure furniture designer who created sideboards, dining tables and more in teak. Cashin believes their choice came down to aesthetics. Ben Erickson, a furniture maker in Brooklyn whose leather lounge chair is made of teak, believes it may have been the material’s workability.

“Even though it’s not the best on blades because it has a high mineral content, it is really beautiful to turn and shape by hand,” he says. “You can get an amazing luster by hand sanding and oiling it.”

Find a range of antique, new and vintage teak furniture on 1stDibs.

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