Danish Learning Community and Resources

Danish Design has become synonymous with elegant and tieless design solutions that prioritize user experience and sustainability. Danish Design, however, was inspired by several factors, including social, economic, and political climate of Denmark in the mid 20th Century. After World War II, Denmark underwent significant social and economic changes, including the emergence of a strong welfare state and a growing middle class. This led to the demand for high quality affordable design that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.  

In addition to these social and economic factors, Danish Design was influenced by the principles of functionalism, which emphasised the practical function of an object over its decorative value. This philosophy emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the excesses of the Art Noveau movement and the growing industrialisation of society. Functionalism prioritized simplicity, clarity and efficiency in design, and this approach became a defining feature of Danish Design.  

The movement’s focus on craftsmanship and high-quality materials has encouraged designers to create objects that are built to last, reducing waste, and promoting a more sustainable approach to consumption. Danish Design has inspired a sense of social responsibility among designers, who prioritise ethical and environmentally conscious production methods.  

Additionally, Danish Design was influenced by the Bauhaus movement, which emerged in Germany in the early 20th century. Bauhaus designers emphasized the use of modern materials and industrial production methods to create objects that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This approach aligned with the principles of functionalism and had a significant influence on Danish Design, particularly in the use of new materials and production techniques.  

Finally, Danish design was inspired by the country’s natural landscape and cultural heritage. The use of natural materials such as wood and leather, and the incorporation of traditional Scandinavian design elements such as clean lines and minimalism, helped create a unique aesthetic that has become synonymous with Danish Design. Overall, Danish Design was inspired by a range of factors, including social and economic changes, design philosophies, and cultural traditions, all of which contributed to the movement’s distinctive aesthetics and design principles. 

At its core, Danish Design emphasizes the use of high-quality materials, the meticulous attention to detail, and a focus on the practical function of an object. These values are exemplified in iconic designs such as the Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen and the PH Lamp by Poul Henningsen, which remain popular and relevant to this day.  

Source: Max Hawley 

One of the key characteristics of Danish Design is the concept of ”hygge”, which loosely translates to cosiness or a sense of well-being. This philosophy encourages designers to create objects that are not only functional but also enhance the quality of life for their users. This approach is reflected in the warm and inviting aesthetic of Danish Design, which often incorporates natural materials such as wood and leather to create a sense of warmth and comfort.  

Today, Danish Design remains a significant force in the world of design, and its influence can be seen in everything from furniture to architecture to graphic design. Its principles have inspired countless designers and continue to shape the way we think about design today, emphasising the importance of functionality, sustainability, and human-centred design. It will be interesting to see what shape Danish Design takes on in the next years to come.