About
Lifespan: 1919–1989
Birthplace: Kirkeby Sogn, Denmark
Manufacturers: Mogens Kold Møbelfabrik, Warm Nordic
Story
Arne Hovmand-Olsen (1919–1989) was a Danish furniture designer whose work belongs to the postwar generation of Danish modernism. Trained first as a cabinetmaker and later in furniture design, he worked across chairs, lounge seating, tables and storage furniture.
He began a cabinetmaking apprenticeship in 1938, entered technical-school training in furniture design in 1941, and opened his own design studio in 1944. His cabinetmaking background is reflected in slender timber members, angled legs, carefully resolved joints and visually light constructions.
During the 1950s he worked with manufacturers including Mogens Kold Møbelfabrik. His output ranged from upholstered lounge chairs to timber dining chairs and tables, including Cocktail Lounge, Wingman, Lean Back, Noble Chair, Evermore and Surfboard.
His furniture often combines oak or teak with upholstery, paper cord or cane. Curved arms and backrests, narrow frame members and deliberate separation between seat and structure give many of his designs a light, open appearance.
Warm Nordic now works with the designer’s family to reissue several of his works, including Cocktail Lounge from 1953, Wingman and Evermore from 1955, Lean Back from 1957, and Noble Chair and Surfboard from 1959.
History & Works
1919 (age 0)
Born in Denmark.
1938 (age 18)
Began a cabinetmaking apprenticeship.
1941 (age 21)
Entered technical-school training in furniture design.
1944 (age 24)
Opened his own design studio.
1953 (age 33)
Designed Cocktail Lounge.
1955 (age 35)
Designed Wingman and Evermore.
1957 (age 37)
Designed Lean Back.
1959 (age 39)
Designed Noble Chair and Surfboard.
1989 (age 69)
Died.
Furniture
Cocktail Lounge
Wingman
Evermore
Lean Back
Noble Chair
Surfboard
References
Warm Nordic — Arne Hovmand-Olsen, Cocktail Lounge, Wingman, Evermore, Lean Back, Noble, Surfboard