With extensive archives to take inspiration from, many Nordic design brands love nothing more than celebrating incredible pieces from their past while simultaneously launching new items that will become just as iconic in the future.
Whether it’s statement furniture, leading lighting or smaller decorative items, this season there are a whole host of very special editions that have been created to mark a significant anniversary, achievement or event.
Here’s more about some of my favourites:
1. CH07 Shell Chair from Carl Hansen & Søn
Available to buy until the end of the year this exclusive 60th anniversary edition of Hans J. Wegner’s CH07 Shell Chair was considered shocking and revolutionary when first presented at the Cabinetmakers’ Autumn Exhibition in Copenhagen in 1963. Made of rosewood and oak, and available with or without a seat upholstered in black, matt aniline leather, this graphic looking, yet extremely comfortable piece of furniture still demonstrates this prolific Danish designer’s superior carpentry skills all these decades later.
2. Utzon Special Edition Pendant Lamp from & Tradition
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Danish architect and designer Jørn Utzon completing the iconic Sydney Opera House, &Tradition have introduced the Utzon Special Edition Pendent Lamp to its collection. This bold Steel Blue pendant, with its lacquered finish and chrome details, offers a new take on the originally conceived 1947 classic, and gives us a glimpse into the sleek, sculptural design style that would become so recognisable in one of the 20th century’s greatest architectural feats.
3. Arkade Chair Anniversary Edition from Brdr. Krüger
Celebrating 100 years since Danish designer Nanna Ditzel’s birth this very special Anniversary Edition of her Arkade Chair is a timeless tribute to her lasting legacy. Handmade by fifth generation family company Brdr. Krüger in their workshop in Værløse, this beautiful and expressive piece of furniture combines a playful frame of curved white oiled oak and chrome detailing with a backrest made from supple Sørensen leather and a seat of soft Australian sheepskin.
4. Stool 60 Villi from Artek
Alvar Aalto’s beloved Stool 60 has been celebrating its 90th birthday this year and to mark this incredible anniversary, Finnish favourites Artek have collaborated with research-based design studio FormaFantasma on a special edition of this timeless three-legged classic. Encouraging a wider, wilder and more responsible use of native Finnish birch wood, Stool 60 Villi, features natural markings such as knots and trails left by colonising insects, highlighting the impact of climate change and industrialisation on the forest.
5. PH 2/2 Luna Table Lamp from Louis Poulsen
Originally introduced in 1939, the PH Luna was known as ‘The Night Stand Lamp’, a name given to this petite table lamp by its designer, Poul Henningsen. Instantly recognisable by its characteristic curved stem and three mouth-blown opal glass shades, this limited edition piece, which is available to buy until the end of the year, has been increased in height to suit how we use our lighting now. Made from untreated brushed brass, the base, stem and switch will patinate beautifully too, giving the lamp its own unique character.
Five more to look out for:
- Ultima Thule Vases from Iittala
To mark the 55th anniversary of their Ultima Thule series of glassware, Iittala have added a series of show-stopping vases to the collection. There are two sizes available, in clear and ‘linen’ coloured glass plus a recycled glass and white ceramic option. - Gothenburg 400 Years from Fine Little Day
To celebrate their hometown of Gothenburg turning 400 years old, Fine Little Day have created a series of very special printed products to collect including a poster, tray and scarf. - Marie’s Yellow Pedal Bin from VIPP
With a limited-edition version of her husband’s iconic design now available in her favourite colour, Marie’s Yellow is a fitting tribute to the woman behind the brand. - Birdy 70 Year Anniversary Table Lamp from Northern
Celebrating its 70th anniversary in style Birger Dahl’s original 1952 Birdy Lamp has been reimagined by Northern in a limited-edition brushed aluminium and steel finish. - Bent Georg Jensen Series from Georg Jensen Damask
To celebrate 100 years since the birth of Bent Georg Jensen rediscover his most famous damask designs all crafted using ancient weaving techniques. The Tripp Bedding is a firm favourite of mine.
All images courtesy of the brands shown.
Enjoyed reading this post? Then find out more about the latest collection, ‘Choreography of Contrasts’ from Ferm Living.
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