Throughout the years, many iconic chairs have been updated and relaunched in new interpretations with new materials and colours. In many cases, the new variants are developed to commemorate an anniversary and celebrate the designer that made them.
Fredericia celebrates Nanna Ditzel’s 100th anniversary with a recoloured Trinidad Chair
This year, the iconic Trinidad Chair, which was groundbreaking for its time, can celebrate its 30th anniversary. The chair is being launched in new variants: Khaki, Nordic Blue, and a delicate Oak Oil version, all with legs in brushed stainless steel.
Carl Hansen & Søn launches Poul Kjærholm’s iconic PK1 chair with woven paper cord
Poul Kjærholm’s first chair design was the lightweight and stackable PK1 in 1955, which was originally made with stainless steel and wicker. Now the iconic chair is being launched in steel and natural paper cord. The dimensions of the chair have been scaled up by 6% to match modern customers, whose average height has grown since the PK1 was launched in the mid-1950s.
In 2022, Magnus Olesen relaunched the iconic X-Line chair, designed in 1977 by architect Niels Jørgen Haugesen
The chair was relaunched in its original chrome variant as well as in four contemporary colours - cream, brown, blue, and black. The latter lacquered models are suitable for use outdoors, and with their flexibility, they fit well into a time when indoor and outdoor spaces often merge. X-Line is a permanent part of the outdoor environment in the café garden at Designmuseum Denmark, and the chair received the ‘Comeback of the Year’ award at the Design Awards 2022.
Fredericia introduces Børge Mogensen’s J39 in new colours
In 2022, the J39 celebrated 75 years of continuous production, and this chair is a particularly good example of Børge Mogensen’s ability to create timeless furniture. With natural materials and a timeless style, the J39 manages to stay current. In spring 2023, the classic wood types oak, walnut, and beech were joined by two new colours and a lacquered variant, while two more colours will be launched in the autumn. The new colours draw inspiration from Børge Mogensen’s distinctive country house and studio in Lynderup near the Limfjord.
Published in magasinet arkitektur/design no 2 2023.
By Tina Kristensen
Translation: Ann Lykke Jensen
Top image: Fredericia, Nanna Ditzel, recoloured Trinidad Chair