Brand Focus: Carl Hansen & Søn: Icons of Danish Design
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Time to read 2 min
Carl Hansen & Søn is a Danish furniture brand known for its exceptional craftsmanship, commitment to traditional woodworking techniques, and enduring Scandinavian design.
With a legacy rooted in quality and tradition, the brand collaborates with iconic designers to create pieces that blend functionality with excellence.
The history
The mid-20th century was a hugely influential time in the rise of Danish modernism, a design ethos that focuses on simplicity, functionality and the use of natural materials. The era was deeply rooted in an appreciation for craftsmanship, honouring both utility and classic forms.
Established in 1908, Carl Hansen & Søn was founded by Carl Hansen on the Danish island of Funen. Family-owned, it continues to pass down traditional woodworking techniques and remains dedicated to quality craftsmanship and design to this day.
The company initially focused on handcrafted furniture, tailored to individual orders, but then moved into collaborating with designers, creating world-renowned pieces that would go on to define the era.
Carl Hansen & Søn's design philosophy
Much like many of the design companies of the times, the guiding light for creation was function, minimalism and craft that lasts, made from honest materials; solid wood, paper cord and natural finishes.
Complete with an eye on sustainability by using ethically sourced materials like FSC-certified wood and ensuring eco-conscious production, Carl Hansen & Søn very much champions planet-friendly production and design.
Furthermore, the antithesis of classic craftsmanship and modern techniques marries in a beautifully contrasting way. The two approaches result in timeless designs with a contemporary edge.
Carl Hansen & Son Wishbone CH24 & HJW37 Pendant
Collaborations with designers
One of Carl Hansen & Søn’s pivotal partnerships began with Hans J. Wegner and resulted in some of the most iconic furniture pieces in history, including the Wishbone Chair (CH24) in 1949 and Elbow Chair (CH20) in 1956.
The Wishbone Chair (CH24)
Famously inspired by Ming Dynasty chairs, The Wishbone Chair (CH24) has a distinctive Y-shaped backrest, steam-bent wood frame crafted from one continuous piece. The seat is hand-woven from over 120 metres of paper cord, a labour-intensive process that contributes to its ergonomic support and visual lightness.
The process of making each chair requires over 100 steps of hand-finishing, embodying just the care and attention that goes into crafting the kind of pieces Carl Hansen & Søn are associated with.
The Elbow Chair (CH20)
A masterful study in simplicity, this stackable chair was designed with a gently curved steam-bent backrest for ergonomic benefits and plush upholstery for even more comfort.
The design of the chair means that it can serve multiple sitting positions and its solid oak frame is lightweight as well as sturdy, suiting work and home life.
With its clean lines and exacting craftsmanship, The Elbow Chair (CH20) holds its place today as a refined, practical piece steeped in style and longevity.
The Carl Hansen & Son legacy
Today, Carl Hansen & Søn are an undeniable cornerstone of Danish design history. Celebrated worldwide for their contributions to the world of furniture and design, their commitment to heritage continues embracing their roots, preserving their legacy of excellence.
Known for their heirloom-worthy pieces, owning Carl Hansen & Søn furniture is to own a piece of history.
At Holloways of Ludlow, we offer a carefully curated selection of Carl Hansen & Søn furniture and lighting, allowing customers to bring this unmatched craftsmanship and design into their homes.
Written by Tomas Dobbins
Tomas is our Store Manager, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. When he’s not keeping the website in shape, you’ll likely find him at home with headphones on - either deep into a new game or lost in a playlist.