Design Icon: Nyhavn Desk
The Nyhavn Desk is a true masterpiece of design. Striking, elegant, functional and practical, it is a classic piece of mid-century Danish furniture that flawlessly fuses utility with modern sensibilities - in any setting.
The designer: Finn Juhl
Danish designer Finn Juhl (1912–1989) was a pioneering figure in mid-century modern design.
Initially studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, he first trained as an architect. His early work in architecture influenced his furniture design, informing his creations to be functional, sculptural and beautiful.
Juhl’s design philosophy centred on the belief that furniture should not only be functional but should be a work of art. His dedication to merging form with function is clear in his work, where every piece has both a practical utility to it and a strong visual impact.
Juhl was influenced by the minimalist principles of American designers like Charles Eames, but with a focus on Danish craftsmanship and functionality.
Driven by organic shapes and innovative techniques, his designs set him apart from his contemporaries. This is exemplified in The Nyhavn Desk by House of Finn Juhl first designed in 1945, due to its forward-thinking design and clean lines.
He wanted to create the desk with a weightless appearance by using slender, burnished or steel painted legs paired with wooden toes. This created a light silhouette that is still high on function and practicality with its features.
Juhl’s legacy remains with other designs such as The Chieftain Chair, The Pelican Chair, and The Boomerang Sofa, all being celebrated to this day for their sculptural integrity, quality and craftsmanship.
The Finn Juhl Nyhavn Desk
With its geometric lines and subtle, rounded corners, The Finn juhl Nyhavn Desk’s simple yet functional form prioritises simplicity and elegance. Appearing to float with its slim silhouette, it is a work of art.
A notable design feature is the three-drawer compartment for integrated storage that appears suspended in the air. This combined with the premium materials of solid FSC®-certified wood for the frame and the high-quality steel legs create both a robust yet refined design high in structural integrity.
With polished steel or brass hardware for drawer handles, it combines the industrial aesthetics of metal contrasting with the warm hues of wood for a sophisticated look.
Practical and artistic, The Nyhavn Desk is a mid-century design classic that suits small, modern home offices, open-plan living spaces and professional office settings.
Where can I buy it?
The Finn Juhl Nyhavn Desk can be purchased at high-end retailers specialising in premium, designer furniture like Holloways of Ludlow.
Available in solid oak, solid walnut or Oregan pine veneer finishes, it can be owned with or without the tray. The tray comes in two colourways: cool tones of blue and warm tones of yellow.
You can choose between small (135 cm), medium (170 cm) and large (190 cm) desk sizes to suit your space.