Gubi Denmark is a design company that has made a name for itself in the world of Scandinavian design. Founded in Copenhagen in 1967, the company has a rich history of producing furniture, lighting, and other accessories that embody the principles of Danish design.
What is Danish Design?
Danish design is a design movement that emerged in Denmark in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by its functionalism, simplicity, and use of natural materials. Danish design is often associated with the mid-century modern style, which was popular in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s.
At its core, Danish design embraces the idea that form should follow function. This means that the design of an object should be based on its intended use, rather than simply aesthetic considerations. Danish designers also prioritize simplicity and minimalism in their designs, believing that less is more.
The History of Gubi Denmark
Gubi Denmark was founded in 1967 by Gubi and Lisbeth Olsen. The company started out as a small showroom in Copenhagen, selling furniture and lighting from other designers. However, Gubi and Olsen soon began designing their own products, with a focus on Danish design principles.
Gubi Denmark’s first product was a chair called the Gräshoppa (grasshopper), designed by Greta Grossman. The chair, which features a minimalist design and a tripod base, has since become an iconic piece of mid-century modern furniture.
In the 1970s, Gubi Denmark expanded its product line to include lighting, and the company became known for its innovative use of materials such as metal and glass. Today, Gubi Denmark continues to produce furniture and lighting that embodies the timeless elegance of Danish design.
The Gubi Denmark Aesthetic
Gubi Denmark’s products are known for their clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. The company’s designers prioritize the use of natural materials such as wood and leather, often combining them with metal or glass for contrast.
One of Gubi Denmark’s signature products is the Beetle chair, designed by GamFratesi. The chair’s distinctive shell-shaped seat is inspired by the exoskeleton of the beetle, while the slender legs give it a delicate, lightweight appearance. The Beetle chair is available in a wide range of colors and materials, including leather, velvet, and wool.
Another iconic Gubi Denmark product is the Bestlite lamp, designed by Robert Dudley Best in 1930. The lamp features a minimalist design with a pivoting arm and a dome-shaped shade, and is available in floor, table, and wall-mounted versions.
Gubi Denmark Today
Today, Gubi Denmark is a global company with showrooms and retailers all over the world. The company continues to produce furniture and lighting that reflects the timeless elegance of Danish design, while also incorporating new materials and technologies.
Gubi Denmark’s products can be found in a wide range of settings, from hotels and restaurants to residential homes. The company has collaborated with some of the world’s leading architects and designers, and has won numerous awards for its innovative and timeless designs.
