Danish furniture-maker Carl Hansen & Søn has relaunched renowned designer Børge Mogensen’s Asserbo Series, introducing the enduring design to a new generation of aficionados. 

Heralded as “the people’s designer” and an elemental force behind the Danish Modern movement, Børge Mogensen valued a democratic “workshop” method when designing, placing greater emphasis on practicality, utility and quality craftsmanship rather than fleeting trends and “preconceived artistic ideas.” This adherence to thoughtful functionality and a simple yet refined aesthetic translated into exceptionally crafted pieces that were intended to last multiple lifetimes — to become heirloom pieces passed down through generations.  

Originally conceived in 1961 for Mogensen’s own holiday home in the region of Denmark it’s named for, the Asserbo Series is a perfect encapsulation of his ethos. With gently rounded profiles and elegant — yet restrained — detailing, the table and bench that comprise the series share a rigorous consistency and an undeniable Shaker-style sensibility. 

While Mogensen made his own version from pine, Carl Hansen & Søn has chosen sustainably forested eucalyptus wood to fabricate the reissue. The fast-growing hardwood species is characterized by its density, subtle grain and lack of overtly noticeable knots, which will contribute to the pieces’ longevity and heirloom quality. Finished in a dark oil stain, the rich tones of the wood are complemented by brushed brass hardware. 

The informal design of the furniture also nods to one of Mogensen’s most-respected influences: the Danish architect and designer Kaare Klint, who focused on developing pieces that comfortably fit human proportions and that transmitted a visual calm while also fulfilling an everyday purpose. 

With scaffolding-like frameworks, the table and bench in the Asserbo Series by Børge Mogensen from Carl Hansen & Søn offer stability and durability, while the rounded backrest and slight curve of the bench seat soften the structural rigidity; a range of leather and fabric options are available for the upholstery of the bench cushion. 

Though developed for the home, the pleasing aesthetic of the Asserbo Series works just as well in restaurants and other public spaces.  

The post Carl Hansen & Søn Resurrects Børge Mogensen’s Beautifully Utilitarian Asserbo Series appeared first on Azure Magazine.

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