How did you start collaborating with Carl Hansen & Søn?

I participated in a national TV programme called Denmark’s Next Classic. We were five designers who had to design six different products each within only three weeks. One of the products I designed for the TV show was the Sideways sofa. I wrote an e-mail to the CEO and owner of Carl Hansen & Søn, Knud Erik Hansen, inviting him to watch the TV show, and he did. From then on, we started collaborating.

To what do you attribute the popularity and impact of the Sideways sofa?

I believe it was so well received because it is relevant, beautiful, and has a high level of craftsmanship and a long-lasting quality. People can relate to the inviting shape and the fact that we need to balance the use of electronic devices.

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Has your work for Carl Hansen & Søn evolved since then?

I think that when you get to know the company you work with over several projects, the collaboration becomes stronger.

Please tell us more about your new designs for Carl Hansen & Søn.

Just like the original [Sideways] sofa, both new additions [the lounge chair and coffee table] use classic materials that have been shaped to enhance human interaction. I truly believe that we need to balance our use of digital devices and face each other in person and be more present, so that’s why the rounded shape of the chair leads you to turn to the person next to you in a way that is still comfortable, and the table, with its reversible top, has a shelf that nudges you to place your phone or tablet aside, encouraging you to take a break from scrolling and instead enjoy the present.

The table consists of two parts: an organic, round solid wooden frame and a reversible tabletop, and you can choose different two-sided tops that can be turned for longevity and individuality.

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What was the process of designing these pieces like? Was it very different from your previous projects?

The close collaboration with the very skilled product development department and the workshop of Carl Hansen & Søn ensures a thought-through product.

The scale of Carl Hansen & Søn and all the in-house skills make the collaboration smooth and very professional. Not all my clients are as privileged.

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Is there a material you never tire of using?

Wood has so many great attributes that I love, and that I will always love working with.

How do you incorporate Carl Hansen & Søn’s heritage and craftsmanship into your work for them?

My passion for functionality and tactility, which allows the user to explore [the product], goes well with the brand’s heritage of thought-through details and high quality.

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What drives you as a designer?

My curiosity and my passion for studying human behaviour.

In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges designers are facing today?

To remain relevant and take responsibility. We must ensure that designing a new product is justified in a world already full of unnecessary items.

Who and what inspires you?

I am inspired by a wide range of things and people, and my sources of inspiration often vary depending on the projects I am working on. For example, nature, art and everyday experiences can spark my creativity. Influential designers, artists and mentors also play a significant role in shaping my work. Ultimately, each project draws from different inspirations tailored to its unique context and goals.

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