Carl Hansen & Son

Founded in 1908 by Danish cabinetmaker Carl Hansen, Carl Hansen & Son began as a small furniture workshop on the island of Fyn. From the very beginning, the brand has been guided by an uncompromising commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and a belief in collaborating with the world’s most talented designers. More than a century later, these principles still underpin every piece in the Carl Hansen collection.

The evolution of Carl Hansen & Son has been shaped in no small part by its long-standing relationship with legendary designer Hans J. Wegner. This collaboration produced some of the most recognisable and enduring designs in modern furniture history. Today, Carl Hansen chairs are celebrated for their sculptural simplicity, refined proportions and outstanding build quality, all rooted in the traditions of Danish cabinetmaking.

At Holloways of Ludlow, we have a long-standing admiration for Carl Hansen & Son. The brand perfectly reflects our appreciation for thoughtful design, honest materials and traditional manufacturing skills. One of the most iconic designs of all time, the CH24 Wishbone Chair remains one of our best-selling pieces and is widely regarded as Hans J. Wegner’s most famous work. Carl Hansen dining chairs, in particular, are prized for their elegant lines, comfort and lasting durability – pieces designed to be used and enjoyed every day.

Renowned across the world, Danish design is synonymous with quality and restraint, and Carl Hansen furniture epitomises the very best of Scandinavian living. Many designs in the collection are now considered mid-century classics, defining an era while remaining entirely relevant in contemporary interiors.

Five facts about Carl Hansen & Son

1. Founded on craftsmanship in 1908
Carl Hansen & Son was established in Odense, Denmark, with a focus on meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality materials, values that continue to define the brand today.

2. An iconic partnership with Hans J. Wegner
The collaboration with Hans J. Wegner began in 1949 and resulted in some of the world’s most celebrated chairs, including the CH24 Wishbone Chair, which has been in continuous production since 1950.

3. Over 100 steps to create a Wishbone Chair
Each CH24 chair requires more than 100 individual production steps. The hand-woven paper cord seat alone takes around an hour, reflecting the brand’s dedication to traditional techniques.

4. Family-owned for over a century
Now led by Knud Erik Hansen, the founder’s grandson, Carl Hansen & Son has remained family-owned for more than 115 years while expanding its global presence.

5. A strong commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is central to the brand’s philosophy. Responsibly sourced FSC-certified wood is used throughout production, and all waste wood is repurposed to heat manufacturing facilities.

Learn more history and stories about Carl Hansen & Son here.