The Architect Finn Juhl is a comprehensive biography of Finn Juhl’s life and creative achievements, written by Esbjørn Hjort and published in 1990 by Arkitektens Forlag. The book presents an extensive overview of Juhl’s multidisciplinary work—ranging from furniture and architecture to applied arts—revealing the depth and originality of his contribution to modern design.
Although formally trained as an architect, Juhl regarded himself primarily as a furniture designer. Remarkably, he was largely self-taught in furniture design, developing an artistic and highly individual approach that drew strong influence from sculpture and modern art. Breaking away from the traditional methods of Danish cabinetmaking, he pursued a freer, more expressive visual language. The book highlights key examples of his furniture—such as the Chieftain Chair, along with designs for Baker Furniture, Bovirke, and France & Son—many of which now reside in museums and private collections around the world. While his work initially sparked controversy, it swiftly gained wide recognition.
Juhl was also deeply engaged in interior design. He created the first interior concept for the Bing & Grøndahl store in Copenhagen and went on to design significant spaces such as the Trusteeship Council Chamber at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the Interior 52 showroom in Trondheim, SAS ticket offices, the Wilhelm Hansen shop, and the Richmond Hotel restaurant. The UN project, in particular, is explored in detail and stands as one of his most celebrated achievements.
Juhl’s architectural work forms another important dimension of his career. He designed his own residence at Kratvænget, as well as private houses such as Villa Aubertin, the summer house in Asserbo, the summer house in Rågeleje, and two houses in Klerkendorf. His architectural approach emphasized spatial planning and interior layout over façade design, prioritizing comfort, light, and the relationship between interior and exterior. His own home—characterized by dark background colors, white walls, and subtle yet intricate detailing—exemplifies the essence of his style.
In the realm of applied arts, Juhl experimented broadly. He designed porcelain for Bing & Grøndahl (ultimately not produced due to manufacturing constraints), silverware for Georg Jensen, glass for the Venini glassworks (designed in 1969 but never manufactured), and textiles including rugs. These pursuits highlight his fascination with diverse materials and expressive forms.
Juhl was also highly active in exhibitions, both as a contributor and as an exhibition architect. He participated regularly in the Cabinetmakers’ Guild annual exhibitions and contributed to high-profile shows such as the Georg Jensen anniversary exhibition, the House of the Future exhibition in Copenhagen, The Arts of Denmark exhibition in New York, and Two Centuries of Danish Design in London. His ability to shape exhibition environments further solidified his reputation.
The book traces how Juhl’s work—initially met with criticism from traditionalists—gradually earned international acclaim, particularly in the United States. His sculptural, artistic approach played a key role in establishing the global reputation of Danish modern design. The biography also provides insight into his personal life: born in 1912, married to music publisher Hanne Wilhelm, a devoted concertgoer, widely traveled, and described as cosmopolitan with an aristocratic temperament.
Overall, The Architect Finn Juhl offers a detailed and scholarly exploration of how Finn Juhl established a unique position in furniture, architecture, and applied arts. By tracing his major projects and creative evolution, the book illuminates the enduring influence of a designer who reshaped the possibilities of Danish design.
About
Author
Esbjørn Hjort
Publisher
Arkitektens Forlag
Size
30.6 × 24.6 cm (144 pages)
Review
For many, the name Finn Juhl evokes images of graceful, sculptural furniture that redefined modern Danish design. Esbjørn Hjort’s The Architect Finn Juhl is far more than a catalogue of Juhl’s works—it is a richly detailed journey through the creative life of a designer who operated at the intersection of architecture, furniture, interior design, and applied arts.
The book examines not only his groundbreaking furniture designs—such as the iconic Chieftain Chair—but also his extraordinary interior projects, including the internationally renowned Trusteeship Council Chamber at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and the early showroom for Bing & Grøndahl in Copenhagen. Juhl’s architectural works, such as his own house at Kratvænget and several private residences, reveal his sensitivity to spatial composition, light, and atmosphere.
Hjort also illuminates Juhl’s ventures into ceramics, silverware, glass, and textiles, demonstrating an unending curiosity for form and material. His exhibition designs further showcase his ability to create immersive environments that communicate artistic intent with clarity and elegance.
Although initially confronted with skepticism from design traditionalists, Juhl’s sculptural approach eventually won widespread acclaim, especially in the United States. His influence was instrumental in establishing the international prestige of Danish design in the mid-20th century. Through extensive images and thoughtful analysis, the book reveals how Juhl’s unmistakable style emerged and evolved across disciplines.
Reading this volume offers more than an appreciation of Juhl’s accomplishments; it allows one to encounter his worldview—expressive, exploratory, and deeply human. For readers interested in design, architecture, or the history of Danish modernism, The Architect Finn Juhl is an essential work that provides profound insight into the mind and legacy of an extraordinary designer.