Crafting the Present: The Spanish Chair
The Spanish Chair stands out as one of Børge Mogensen’s most celebrated designs and a personal favourite, showcasing his unique take on modernity. Created for Fredericia in 1958, the inspiration behind this extraordinary design stemmed from a family trip to Andalucia, where he experienced the Spanish medieval style of furniture construction.
“ My goal is to create items that serve people and give them the leading role instead of forcing them to adapt. ”
Børge Mogensen
Iconic modernity
While travelling through Spain, Børge Mogensen observed an ornate chair with wide armrests, a traditional style involving Spain’s medieval furniture construction. Mogensen modernised the design by reducing the ornamentation and retaining simple, minimal construction where form follows function and anything extra is eliminated.
He expanded upon his early work with solid oak and added saddle leather in his design of The Spanish Chair. The chair was launched in 1958 as part of an innovative living space exhibition at the Copenhagen Cabinetmaker’s Guild, where all tables were removed from the floor to create an open living area. Adding wide armrests to the chair made a more open and informal space for relaxing and conversing.
Designed to last for generations
Renowned as the founding designer of Fredericia, Børge Mogensen (1914–1972) is acclaimed for his pioneering role in shaping Danish Modernism. His enduring legacy reflects a lifelong ambition to create functional and beautiful furniture designed to last for generations.
Throughout his career as a designer, Mogensen found inspiration from around the world, dedicating himself to creating everyday furniture that transcended mere functionality. His unparalleled ability to create iconic furniture using natural materials and timeless expression makes it relevant across various times, generations, and cultures.
Andreas Graversen's house was furnished with Børge Mogensen's furniture, including the Spanish Chair.
A Børge Mogensen living room
Pictured here is the first showing of The Spanish Chair at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition "Country House".
Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition, 1958
Original drawings of The Spanish Chair, July 1958.
Iconic modernity
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