3daysofdesign Through the Eyes of Margarita Shatkova

At the recent "3daysofdesign" 2024 event in Copenhagen, factories from Denmark, Belgium, Finland, Sweden, and Italy were showcased. In my review, I would like to focus specifically on Danish design. Denmark is a country that highly values coziness. Danish design embodies naturalness and comfort, but also pays great attention to the details and forms that constitute aesthetics and functionality.

The exhibition's slogan was: "Don't be afraid to dream."

Those who dare to dream are compelled to seek innovative solutions that challenge everything, exploring uncharted territories to reveal possibilities once deemed unattainable. Their pursuit includes the discovery of natural and recycled materials with compelling properties and outcomes that prioritize the planet and its people, encouraging every link in the chain to push the boundaries of established norms.

In their joint exhibition, A-N-D's lighting harmoniously complements the furniture made by NORR11, subtly accentuating the characteristics of each brand.

The SS24 collection not only fulfills practical purposes but also exhibits a masterful combination of creativity, craftsmanship, and steadfast dedication to both form and function. Inspired by past decades or contemporary artistic movements, each item narrates a unique tale of aesthetic excellence and the ambition to create visually impactful and functional interior spaces.

The legendary Tiger Armchair GM 4106, designed by Henrik Lehm, prioritizes aesthetics and superior comfort. The Tiger is not only stylish but also serves as a piece of interior decor where one can comfortably sit at the dining table for extended periods. This timeless design has progressively become a staple in Scandinavian homes. The rear armrests are available in oak, ash, elm, walnut, or a black-painted version.

Since its inception in 1911, the family-owned company Fredericia has established a robust connection between expert craftsmanship and innovative design, developed through close collaboration with a cadre of internationally acclaimed designers. Iconic designers such as Børge Mogensen, Hans J. Wegner, and Nanna Ditzel, along with contemporary luminaries like Barber Osgerby, Jasper Morrison, Cecilie Manz, and Maria Bruun, have all contributed to shaping Fredericia into the bastion of design and craftsmanship it represents today.

Finn Juhl crafted furniture with the human body in mind, setting him apart from his mid-century contemporaries in Denmark and Scandinavia. Rather than limiting himself to practical construction, Finn Juhl embraced a sculptor's perspective in his furniture design. This approach led to the creation of iconic pieces such as the "Pelican Chair," "Poet Sofa," "Chief Chair," and "Chair 45," which are now beloved icons of the Danish modern movement. To reintroduce Finn Juhl's seminal works, we must embrace his mindset and strive to grasp his philosophy. It's about the emotions. Creating furniture cannot be reduced to a mere technical and commercial endeavor. One must be exceedingly critical and uncompromising because, with Finn Juhl, it's not about commercial ventures and excessive profits.

By the time of his passing in 1989, Finn Juhl had achieved recognition as an award-winning and highly esteemed furniture designer on the international design scene. Finn Juhl's sculptural furniture pieces continue to be celebrated globally, and he is revered as one of the patriarchs of the Danish modernist movement in America.

The Monolit Chair, designed by Cecilie Manz for Fritz Hansen, offers exceptional comfort with its deep seat and distinctive character, derived from its monolithic structure.

The backrest forms a circular protective shell that envelops the sitter, fostering a sense of warmth and a protected personal space.

Normann Copenhagen marks its 25th anniversary by engaging you with the brand's core essence. The "ELEMENTS OF NORMANN" exhibition aims to encapsulate the fundamental identity that has shaped the brand for the last quarter of a century.

With an homage to the love of color, the materials that define the collections, and the brand's vision for the future, the company invites visitors to delve into the heart of the brand.