Scandinavian furniture designers have revolutionized the American sector, contributing to the mid-century modern style.
The Scandinavian style is considered one of the main currents in modern design. It is still manifested strongly in the interior design trends and furniture industry, with its simple lines, graphic patterns, and vivid colors harmoniously combined with neutrals.
One of the most influential Scandinavian designers of those times was Johannes Andersen, a Danish icon who applied Nordic design principles and applied them in a modern, new way.
The Principles of Scandinavian Design
Let’s talk briefly about what makes the Scandinavian design unique and why it has become so influential today.
The influence of the harsh weather and austere environment was crucial for how houses were built and how the furniture came to have interesting characteristics. What can describe Scandinavian best is the combination of practicality and pleasant aesthetics.
Scarce resources and the remoteness of production points often forced furniture builders and carpenters to make the best out of what they had, maximizing the potential of the materials. This practical principle is still kept in Scandinavian design, with a good example given by the mainstream giant Ikea and its storage-friendly pieces.
The harsh weather and dark days can lead to anxiety and negativity from spending so much time indoors. This naturally led to a need for compensating the uninviting weather from the outside with a warm, cheerful interior. That is why you will find such vivid colors and joyful patterns in Scandinavian design.
Johannes Andersen, an Iconic Danish designer
Andersen lived during the exciting times of the Danish design expansion and began his career as an apprentice cabinet maker. His first creations were made in his furniture shop and during collaborations with other design houses in Sweden and Denmark. By this time, modern Danish design was becoming internationally acclaimed.
His characteristic works were defined by organic, creative curves applied to simple lines. The Johannes Andersen pieces are almost architectural, keeping significant proportions and functionality while giving a fantastic homage to nature and its organic, asymmetrical shapes.
Andersen coffee tables exceed the expectations of how a coffee table should be shaped. He uses triangles with rounded corners, oval shapes, and tapered legs to create a flowing design that brings out the wood fiber’s beauty.
There is always great attention to detail in his works. The most exciting thing about an Andersen piece is how comfortable it is when you use it, despite its futuristic appearance. It is easy to see why Johannes Andersen’s creations are still sought after by design lovers and interior designers.
Practicality is also significant in Andersen furniture, such as surface extensions, ergonomic seating, and beautifully proportionate dimensions.
As a modern style icon, Andersen still influences design, remaining one of the most iconic Danish designers of the last century.
