Poul Kjærholm

Poul Kjærholm began his career as a cabinetmaker before furthering his education at the School of Applied Arts in Copenhagen. Like his contemporaries such as Arne Jacobsen and Hans J. Wegner, Kjærholm played a pivotal role in the global recognition of Scandinavian design during the mid-20th century. His work is widely regarded for its minimalist aesthetic, innovative use of materials, and a deep understanding of craftsmanship. While many of his peers relied on wood, Kjærholm embraced the industrial materials of his time, particularly steel, which he skillfully combined with more traditional elements such as leather and wood.

Kjærholm’s designs, such as the PK11 and PK20, are celebrated for their understated elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. The PK11, with its three-legged steel frame and curved wooden backrest, exemplifies Kjærholm’s mastery of material integrity and minimalist design. The PK20, with its cantilevered steel frame and leather seat, showcases his ability to blend organic forms with industrial materials. Kjærholm's work strikes a perfect balance between form and function, creating pieces that are as beautiful as they are practical. His designs draw from both modernist principles and historical furniture forms, which he reinterpreted through his own architectural sensibility. The result is timeless furniture that marries industrial modernism with refined craftsmanship, continuing to be revered for its lasting influence and enduring elegance.