Among the most inspiring iconic chairs of the 20th century, those of designer Hans Wegner remain without doubt the most legendary. A perfect illustration of Danish design, his creations of wooden chairs combine simplicity and clean lines to create what Hans Wegner called “organic functionality.” In other words, a modern approach emphasizing the functional character of furniture.

The flourishing story of Danish designer Hans Wegner

Born in 1914, Hans Wegner began his career as an apprentice to master cabinetmaker H.F. Stahlberg. During this time, he learned to work with wood, the material he would favor throughout his career. Hans Wegner quickly understood the unique character and natural beauty of wood.

In 1936, the designer Hans Wegner started creating his first wooden furniture. One of his early projects was designing furniture for the Aarhus City Hall. Over his lifetime, he designed more than 500 chairs, and today countless designers still draw inspiration from his work. Let’s take a closer look at some of his most iconic chairs.

The Chair PP503: A timeless wooden chair with armrests

Perhaps one of the simplest yet most elegant creations, The Chair PP503 is modest and truly timeless. This wooden armchair has no unnecessary details, just a seat with a beautifully curved backrest. It was famously favored by John F. Kennedy, who said that The Chair helped relieve his back pain.

The Wishbone Chair CH24: A Nordic style dining chair

The Wishbone Chair CH24, also known as the Y Chair, is another iconic design by Hans Wegner. With its woven rattan seat and distinctive Y-shaped backrest, this chair has been in continuous production for more than 67 years. Its graceful curves and timeless elegance make it a global design icon.

The Wishbone CH24 is also available as a Wishbone bar stool. With its slim angled legs and Y-shaped backrest, this mid-century modern bar chair combines comfort with Scandinavian simplicity.

The CH23 Chair: A wooden dining chair with natural cord seat

For anyone looking for an original wooden dining chair, the CH23 chair is a perfect choice. While the Wishbone Chair CH24 is Wegner’s most produced design, the CH23 remains one of his most famous. Its straight legs balance perfectly with the curved backrest, while the handwoven paper cord seat highlights Wegner’s attention to craftsmanship.

The CH07 Shell Chair: A sculptural lounge chair

The CH07 Shell Chair, also known as the three-legged chair, is one of Wegner’s most recognizable designs. Its shell-shaped seat and tripod legs make it a true Scandinavian lounge chair classic, beloved by interior design enthusiasts around the world.

The PP225 Flag Halyard Chair: A modernist masterpiece

Unlike many of his wooden designs, the Flag Halyard Chair PP225 combines cord, sheepskin and a sleek steel frame. This modern lounge chair perfectly blends comfort and innovation, making it one of Wegner’s most striking and unique pieces.

The CH25 Lounge Chair: A low seat with timeless charm

With its low seat and natural materials, the CH25 Lounge Chair is another timeless piece. Its woven rattan backrest and armrests offer comfort and durability, making it an elegant Scandinavian wooden armchair for any interior.

Bring Hans Wegner’s design into your home today

The brilliance of Hans Wegner’s chairs lies in their perfect balance between subtle beauty and functionality. Whether you are decorating a dining room, living room, office, or bedroom, there is undoubtedly a Wegner-inspired solution for you. Looking for a statement piece or practical everyday seating? Discover our full collection of Hans Wegner inspired chairs.