Peter Hvidt & Orla M. Nielsen
In addition to their work as furniture designers, Hvidt and Mølgaard also designed a number of buildings and interiors throughout their careers.
Peter Hvidt & Orla M. Nielsen
Peter Hvidt (1916-1986) and Orla Mølgaard (1907-1993) were Danish furniture designers who are widely regarded as two of the most influential designers of the mid-20th century. They collaborated on a number of iconic furniture designs that were characterized by their clean lines, simplicity, and functionality.
Hvidt was born on December 17, 1916, in Copenhagen, Denmark, while Mølgaard was born on August 5, 1907, in Aarhus, Denmark. They both trained as architects at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where they developed a shared interest in furniture design.
In 1944, Hvidt and Mølgaard founded their own furniture design firm, Hvidt & Mølgaard, which specialized in producing modernist furniture designs. They quickly gained a reputation for their innovative designs, which were characterized by their use of new materials and techniques, such as laminated wood and steam-bent wood.
One of Hvidt and Mølgaard's most famous designs is the AX chair, which they designed in 1950. The chair features a bentwood frame and a woven seat, and it was praised for its elegant design and comfortable seating. Other notable designs by the duo include the Spindle back chair, the Minerva lounge chair, and the Portex table.
In addition to their work as furniture designers, Hvidt and Mølgaard also designed a number of buildings and interiors throughout their careers. They were known for their attention to detail and their ability to create cohesive, functional spaces.
Hvidt and Mølgaard received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to design. They were awarded the prestigious Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale in 1951, and their work was exhibited in museums and galleries around the world.
Hvidt passed away on December 19, 1986, in Copenhagen, Denmark, while Mølgaard passed away on October 6, 1993, in Søborg, Denmark. However, their legacy continues to be celebrated today, and their furniture designs remain highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts around the world.