SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN
"Simplicity at its most stylish"
What is Scandinavian Design?
Scandinavian Design originates from the countries of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. The beauty of Scandinavian design is radiated through light colours and the ample use of wood. It was said to be a design movement of simplicity, minimalism, functionality and craftsmanship. (Source) The primary material is wood, followed by granite, clay, leather, metal, linen, wool and furs, and the Nordic colour palette tends to be light and pale pastel colours. The Scandinavian design, is inspiration taken from the nature,animals and wilderness of the world.  |
| Jens Risom |
JENS RISOM
Jens Risom was one of the first designers in the 1940's to bring Scandinavian furniture and interior design styles to the united states. He created the first KNOLL chair in 1941 along side Hans Knoll(who was a furniture manufacture). Which they made their first collection called the "600 Series" which was made up of 25 designs, of which 15 was Jens Risom designs (source). The collection was made up of Side Chair, Lounge Chair, Stool, Dining and Amoeba Tables.
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| Traditional Scandinavian folk print source |
Jens Risom was acknowledged for blending different striking, well-defined curves and angles from traditional Scandinavian values and flair from post-war American designs. He truly set the standards for the Knoll chairs and for the company, and has made the business a susses and well known today.
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| The first Knoll Chair designed by Jens Risom and Hans Knoll in 1941-1942 Photo Source. |
Jens Risom Design (JRD)Soon after this success, the war in Germany followed and Risom was taken away from his work. He came back returning to his freelance career. Risom was determined to strike out on his own, forming Jens Risom Design (JRD) on May 1, 1946.His furniture was kept to the the highest of craftsmanship and quality, and was made at a high price tag. The furniture was made with the best of the few materials available during WWII.
"Risom's work continued to reflect the Danish approach to modernism, with its emphasis on traditional values and the human need for warmth, beauty and simplicity."
How we see Scandinavian design today?
Today we see Scandinavian Design in a lot of ways through the use of furniture, art, architecture, interior, fabric. Here are some of my favorites.
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Here is some more really cool examples.
