What is Danish design?

Danish design is a style that is best described as functional, minimalistic and sustainable. Danish design had its breakthrough in the 1950s, but is still just as popular today as it was when it first premiered on the design scene. Denmark’s design philosophy manages to seamlessly merge aesthetics with functionality and every-day use. Considering Denmark’s size of just over 5.5 million people, it is impressive how many big names in design this country has to show for.

The top 6 Danish designers you need to know

Denmark is the origin and home to countless designers that are popular around the world. However, some stand out and have managed to dominate the Danish design world since the 1950’s.

1. Arne Jacobsen

This goes without saying, we know, but he simply cannot go unmentioned. He seems to have done it all; architecture, lighting, furniture, typography and accessories. His designs are simple, yet unmistakable. Once you know it, you will always be able to point out an Arne Jacobsen piece.

3. Jørn Utzon

Jørn Utzon might be most known for his iconic work at the Opera house in Sydney, but he has also designed lamps that have become modern classics. The Utzon lamp for the brand &Tradition, for instance, is popular around the globe.

4. Greta Grossman

Greta Grossman stood out as one of the most influential female figures within a male-dominated Danish design world. She is most known for her iconic Gräshoppa and Cobra lamp designs for the Danish brand Gubi.

5. Verner Panton

Verner Panton is the designer behind the iconic FlowerPot collection by &Tradition. The design originates in 1969 but is still just as modern today. In recent years, &Tradition has introduced new colours to the line.

6. Georg Jensen

Georg Jensen, a silversmith from Denmark, is the founder behind the brand Georg Jensen A/S. The iconic steel and silver designs are unmistakable and popular around the world.

The most popular Danish brands today

It is no question that Denmark has an impressive portfolio Danish design brands to show for. Some have been among the top since the 50s, but new ones are being introduced to the market continuously.

These are the classic Danish design brands you need to know

There are many Danish design brands that have been around for a long time, but some simply stand out. Here are the top 5 classic Danish design brands you should know:

1. Kay Bojesen Denmark
2. Georg Jensens
3. Louis Poulsen
4. Gubi
5. Fritz Hansen

The modern Danish design brands we’re loving

Danish design might have had its golden age in the 50s, 60s and 70s, but we would argue that this phenomenon never ended. Danish design is just as, if not even more popular today and new Danish design brands are hitting the scene daily. Here are the top 5 news-comer brands that you need to know about:

1. Broste Copenhagen
2. Normann Copenhagen
3. House Doctor
4. Umage
5. Ferm Living

So what is it that makes Danish design so special?

Danish design has stayed relevant and interesting since the 1950’s, and we understand the fascination! Danish design has always managed to capture and simplify everyday living. Whether it is a stackable glass, a functional lamp that diffuses the light in the best possible way or the eye-catching chair that is handed down through generations – Danish design changes and adapts to our everyday life, while remaining true to its roots and philosophies.

So, what makes Danish design so special? It might just be the perfect combination of attainability, functionalism and simplicity. The pillars that make up Danish design are and stay relevant to us as a society, and a home will always be the focal point of our lives.