Roland Wilhelmsson “Kvadrat” Coffee Table, Sweden 1970s

Danish furniture design possesses a homely tone in nature and character. The best works are characterized by the will to produce genuine, technical workmanship, a sound critical atti...

Ole Wanscher was a leading figure in Danish and Scandinavian design, as was his mentor, the legendary Kaare Klint, renowned to be the “father” of modern Danish furniture design. Toge...

This “Svensk Fur” or ‘Swedish Pine’ dining table is a nod to modernist design with traditional Swedish craftsmanship. The design relays an insight about the society and culture in which it was produced: closeness to nature, the appreciation of a clutter-free environment and the value of quality handiwork. The Malmvall pieces that appeal to most are the models designed for Karl Andersson & Söner, for the sheer fact that they seem completely contemporary and undated. The pieces of the line, such as this table, are often compared to the designs of Axel Einar Hjorth, even though Malmvall’s designs are exceptional on their own merit. Self-taught, Göran Malmvall was a highly skilled cabinetmaker with considerable technical expertise and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. This table holds a natural expression with its airy and organic design, which is dominated by the natural beauty of the material and the creative use of the tenon and mortise joinery. The rectangular tabletop showcases the solid pine’s pattern, reinforcing the rustic feel. The legs have carved out vertical lines, a smart detail that elongates them optically. Göran Malmvall, the youngest son of Karl Andersson, was a highly skilled cabinetmaker with considerable technical expertise and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. His expertise can be traced not only in this detail, but also in the legs’ joinery technique. Swedish modern – despite its name – in many ways transcends the word ‘modern’, and so does Malmvall. Like the style, the Svensk Fur pieces can be incorporated successfully into contemporary and traditional interiors alike, lending themselves to a timeless and universal appeal. Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. Dimensions: 51.18 in W x 31.1 in D x 28.34 in H 130 cm W x 79 cm D x 72 cm H About the Designer: Göran Malmvall (1917–2001) was the youngest son of the manufacturing company’s founder, Karl Andersson. He studied furniture design under Carl Malmsten and was involved with the family business from an early age until 1982, mainly in the capacity of an in-house furniture designer. Self-taught, he was a highly skilled cabinet-maker with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. His most notable designs include Svensk Fur, Svitjod and, not least, the KA 72 cabinet...

With warm tones, exceptional versatility, and crafted with a range of appealing materials, Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard Nielsen furniture showcase the Danish duo’s penchant for innovation and durable design. For decades, the pair created sleek coffee tables - like this piece - that are characterised by the practicality and elegance commonly attributed to Scandinavian modernism. In mid-century modern design, the use of wood held a special significance: it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasised the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. The design of this coffee table is inspired by the mid-century inclination towards elemental shapes, featuring a simple, elegant circle as its tabletop, supported by four straight legs connected by overlapping cross stretchers. This minimalist approach combined with solid wood creates a timeless appearance that resonates with any design style. Furthermore, round tables, such as this model, held a special place in mid-century design. Their open, unobtrusive look fosters social interaction, making them ideal for gathering, discussion, and shared experiences. The absence of sharp corners enhances safety and flow within a space, promoting a harmonious environment. This table has a humble but well-thought-out structure that relies on its material for its aesthetic, with a natural expression dominated by the natural beauty of the wood and its characteristics. The most eye-catching design (and functional) element remains the cross stretchers connecting the legs. Albeit simple, its uncommon overlap - as opposed to bisecting - design catches the eye, and contrasts effectively with the top. The design of this table encapsulates a rich moment in furniture design history. It's a tangible embodiment of the mid-20th century era’s focus on materiality and craftsmanship, while also reflecting the innovative spirit of Danish designers like Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard Nielsen. Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood. Dimensions: 36.22 in Ø x 22.05 in H 92 cm Ø x 56 cm H Literature: Fritz Hansen catalogue, 1951 About the Designers: Both Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen attended what is now the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, with Mølgaard-Nielsen having completed his studies under the Danish furniture design pioneer and architect Kaare Klint. Trained as an architect and cabinetmaker, Hvidt established his own firm in 1940 and taught at his alma mater for a few years. After they won a design competition held in Stockholm, Hvidt partnered with Mølgaard-Nielsen in 1944 to establish their firm in Copenhagen. The collaboration between Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen yielded more than 250 designs and lasted over 30 years. Aside from having created a wardrobe for the Queen of Denmark as well as numerous architectural structures, the pair’s flagship achievements include 1944’s teak Portex chair...

A large pine coffee table; design and production attributed to Roland Wilhelmsson, Sweden, 1970s. All items ship from High Point, North Carolina.

A pine coffee table designed and produced by Roland Wilhelmsson, Sweden, c. 1970s. Minor surface scratches. Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Dimensions (inches): 17.15"H x...

20th century Swedish pine coffee table by Roland Wilhelmsson. Signed: Roland Wilhelmsson, Ågesta 1968.

A brutalist Swedish modern coffee table in solid pine designed by Yngve Ekström for Swedese, circa 1970. This table is made in solid pine and is mounted and dismantled by screwing...