Classics endure for a reason, and in Fritz Hansen’s case, that reason is the visionary nature of its products. The Danish furniture company has played a considerable role in establishing the hallmarks of contemporary design since it was established in 1872. Along the way, titans such as Hans. J. Wegner, Arne Jacobson, Verner Panton, Finn Juhl, Børge Mogensen, and Poul Kjaerholm put Scandinavian design on the map by pushing the boundaries of their craft with bold, new ideas. In celebration of its 150th anniversary, the company is looking back at some of the most forward-thinking pieces of furniture that have gone on to establish the lexicon of furniture design as we know it today. One such piece is the PK0 A chair, which Fritz Hansen is re-releasing for the first time.
Created by Kjærholm in 1952, only 600 PK0 A chairs were in circulation until this year. Ahead of its time then, even today the chair’s sloping, curvilinear profile is downright futuristic. Kjærholm was inspired by the sculptures of Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Jean Arp when creating the chair, as well as his contemporaries pushing American and Japanese design forward at the time.
“The PK0 A stands out in design history,” says Marie-Louise Høstbo, Head of Design at Fritz Hansen. “In the early 1950’s, Poul Kjærholm challenged our perception of the construction of a chair. Two molded forms, each sculptural in shape, were connected by a simple spacer to create a comfortable chair with no defined frame or base. The design continues to inspire with its durable aesthetics, function, and beauty.”
The PK0 A chair will be offered in either an Oregon pine or black stained ash finishes, starting in September of this year. In the meantime, check out the other five designs Fritz Hansen is reinterpreting in celebration of its 150th anniversary, showcased in the video below.