George Nakashima: The Soul of Wood in Mid-Century and Studio Craft Furniture

In the pantheon of Mid-Century Modern designers, George Nakashima occupies a singular place—not just as a master craftsman, but as a philosopher of materials, a bridge between cultures, and a pioneer of the American studio craft movement. Where many of his contemporaries were refining machine-made modernism, Nakashima was slowing it down, elevating the handmade, and reminding the world that furniture could be soulful.

A Life Shaped by Philosophy, Faith, and Wood

Born in 1905 in Spokane, Washington, Nakashima was trained as an architect, earning a master’s degree from MIT before traveling the world—studying in Paris, working in Japan, and spending time in an ashram in India. These global influences would shape both his worldview and his work. He developed a spiritual reverence for nature, especially trees, which he saw not just as raw material, but as living beings with stories to tell.

That reverence found its truest expression in his studio in New Hope, Pennsylvania, where Nakashima began crafting furniture in earnest after his internment at Camp Minidoka during World War II. It was there, under the mentorship of a Japanese carpenter he met in the camp, that Nakashima deepened his connection to woodworking.

A Founding Voice in the Studio Craft Movement

George Nakashima is often credited as one of the founding figures of the American studio craft movement—a post-war response to industrialization that emphasized the artist as maker. Rather than anonymous factory production, Nakashima’s work was intensely personal. Each table, chair, and cabinet was made in his studio by hand, often using slabs of American hardwoods like walnut, cherry, and maple.

His approach stood in stark contrast to the clean, mass-produced lines that defined much of Mid-Century Modern furniture. Nakashima believed in showcasing the imperfections of wood—the knots, burls, cracks, and voids—rather than hiding them. His iconic butterfly joints, used to stabilize natural splits, became both functional and poetic signatures.

Why Nakashima Matters in Mid-Century Modern Design

Even though Nakashima’s aesthetic diverged from the Scandinavian and Bauhaus-influenced norms of the era, his work is undeniably Mid-Century in spirit: modern, reductive, honest. What sets him apart is his deep spiritual and material connection to wood, which made his pieces feel timeless rather than tied to a moment or trend.

Where Mid-Century Modern often focused on progress and sleekness, Nakashima grounded his work in permanence, patience, and presence. His furniture isn’t just admired—it’s felt. Each piece encourages pause and contemplation, offering a sense of grounding in a fast-moving world.

His inclusion in design milestones like the seminal 1952 “Good Design” exhibition at MoMA, and his long partnership with Knoll (who produced versions of his grass-seated chairs and Origins line), cemented his place in the modern design canon. Yet, Nakashima always remained loyal to the slower, more deliberate pace of studio work.

Why Nakashima’s Work is Collectible

Today, Nakashima furniture is among the most revered and sought-after by collectors and institutions alike. Here’s why:

• Singular Craftsmanship: Each piece was made with intentionality, often customized for the client and always handcrafted.

• Material Rarity: Nakashima was known to hold onto wood slabs for decades, waiting for the right purpose. Many pieces contain rare or now-unavailable hardwoods with unique figuring.

• Signature Details: Butterfly joints, exposed joinery, free-edge slabs, and mortise-and-tenon construction all serve as both identifiers and testaments to quality.

• Cultural and Historic Weight: Owning a Nakashima piece is not just acquiring furniture—it’s acquiring part of a philosophical legacy.

• Provenance and Value: Works made during George’s lifetime, especially signed pieces with original documentation, command top prices at auction and continue to appreciate.

A Legacy That Lives On

Today, the Nakashima Studio continues under the leadership of his daughter, Mira Nakashima, preserving and expanding the legacy of her father’s vision. The studio remains a place of reverence, where trees are honored, not harvested, and where the grain of wood guides the hand of the maker.

In a World of Noise, Nakashima Is Silence

George Nakashima once said, “A tree is our most intimate contact with nature.” His work reminds us that design need not be loud to be powerful. In fact, the quieter it is, the more room it leaves for the soul.

In the context of both Mid-Century Modernism and the studio craft movement, Nakashima was—and remains—a crucial voice. His pieces are meditations on nature, permanence, and the handmade, inviting us to slow down and live more thoughtfully.

---

Looking for Nakashima?

At Hobbs Modern, we occasionally offer rare, original George Nakashima works, including  Trestle table.  Every Nakashima item we handle is vetted for authenticity and celebrated for its quiet artistry.

Why Nakashima’s Work is Collectible

Today, George Nakashima’s furniture ranks among the most coveted in both the worlds of design and fine art collecting. What began as studio-made furniture now sits comfortably in major museum collections, high-design interiors, and private estates worldwide. Here’s why his work continues to grow in value and cultural significance:

1. Authentic Handcraftsmanship in an Automated World

Each Nakashima piece is hand-built using traditional joinery and woodworking techniques that are nearly extinct in modern production. As consumers and collectors increasingly value authenticity and narrative, Nakashima’s hands-on approach feels rare and deeply meaningful.

2. One-of-a-Kind Nature

No two Nakashima pieces are the same. The wood slab dictated the design, and the furniture was made around the natural contours of each tree. His signature live edges, knots, and butterfly joints were not design affectations—they were expressions of respect for the individuality of each tree. This uniqueness makes every piece essentially a one-off functional sculpture.

3. Timeless Aesthetic

Nakashima’s work transcends fashion. It isn’t mid-century in the Eames or Wegner sense—it’s more elemental. His fusion of Japanese, Shaker, and American vernacular styles results in furniture that feels outside of time, which is precisely why it integrates so well into both modern and traditional interiors.

4. Provenance and Documentation

Nakashima carefully documented his later work, often signing pieces and recording client orders.  Pieces from his New Hope studio—especially those signed by George himself or documented in original shop drawings—carry significant provenance and value in the secondary market. Pieces with known histories or direct ties to prominent collectors and architects command premium prices.

5. Increasing Rarity

George Nakashima passed away in 1990, and while the Nakashima Studio still produces furniture under his daughter Mira’s leadership, pieces made during his lifetime are finite. Early examples—particularly from the 1950s to the mid-1970s—are becoming harder to find, especially in original condition with a documented history.

6. Cultural and Artistic Reverence

Nakashima’s work has been acquired by institutions like MoMA, the Smithsonian, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His legacy isn’t just about furniture—it’s about philosophy, craft, and reverence for nature. As the line between collectible design and fine art continues to blur, Nakashima’s work is now viewed with the same seriousness as sculpture or painting.

7. Growing Market Recognition

Auction results reflect this rising esteem: Nakashima pieces regularly outperform estimates, and collectors are now seeking even more obscure and experimental works from his studio. A Conoid bench or live-edge dining table with the right provenance can fetch six figures at auction, rivaling works by the most celebrated modern designers.

---

A Legacy That Lives On

Today, the Nakashima Studio continues under the leadership of his daughter, Mira Nakashima, preserving and expanding the legacy of her father’s vision. The studio remains a place of reverence, where trees are honored, not harvested, and where the grain of wood guides the hand of the maker.

 

Continue reading

Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard: The Understated Architects of Danish Modernism

In the history of Danish Modern design, some names shine quietly but cast a long and lasting shadow. Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen were two such visionaries—designers who combined architectural rigor, innovative craftsmanship, and warm minimalism to help define a generation of furniture.

While many associate Danish Modern with soft curves and light woods, Hvidt & Mølgaard brought a structural clarity to their work that stood apart—especially in their use of solid teak, a choice both bold and rare for the time.

---

1. A Collaborative Force of Precision and Warmth

Peter Hvidt (1916–1986) and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen (1907–1993) formed their studio in 1944 and worked together until the mid-1970s. Their partnership was grounded in a shared background in architecture and cabinetmaking—an intersection that would define their work’s remarkable balance between engineering and elegance.

They were early pioneers of Danish modernist export furniture, creating pieces that could be flat-packed, shipped, and assembled abroad without sacrificing quality or style. This not only made their work internationally accessible but also helped spread Danish design globally.

---

2. Sculptural Simplicity Meets Technical Innovation

What makes Hvidt & Mølgaard’s work so enduring is their ability to take simple forms and imbue them with character. Their designs are often reduced to essential lines—no extra ornamentation, just pure function refined to art. But look closer, and you’ll see what sets them apart: carefully considered proportions, tapered legs that feel impossibly light, floating shelves, and joinery that’s as beautiful as it is precise.

One of their most iconic works, the AX Chair (1950), was among the first to use laminated bent plywood in Denmark—years before it became widespread. It represents their belief in combining modern manufacturing with timeless craftsmanship.

---

3. The Beauty—and Boldness—of Solid Teak

Perhaps the most unique contribution Hvidt & Mølgaard made to Danish Modernism lies in their case pieces—sideboards, desks, and wall units often constructed from solid teak rather than the more common veneer.

This was highly unusual at the time, even in high-end Scandinavian furniture, as solid wood was expensive, heavier, and more prone to movement over time. But in the hands of these two designers, solid teak became a hallmark of durability and tactile richness. It allowed for:

• Precision-crafted edges and joints that were razor-sharp and long-lasting

• A depth of grain and patina that veneer simply couldn’t match

• Integrated sculptural details, like louvered or tambour doors and sculpted drawer pulls

These pieces were designed not just to function well, but to age beautifully—earning them a revered place among collectors today.

---

4. Masters of Modular Living

Hvidt & Mølgaard were ahead of their time in promoting modularity and flexibility in furniture design. Their iconic wall units—built with solid teak uprights and customizable shelving or cabinetry—offered elegant storage solutions for modern, urban homes. These systems were both architectural and warm, reflecting the designers' belief in furniture as an extension of the home’s structure.

Their designs spoke to a lifestyle: minimal, thoughtful, and intentional. Every joint, every curve, every choice of material served a purpose.

---

5. Why Collectors Covet Hvidt & Mølgaard

While their name may not be as widely known as Wegner or Mogensen, those in the know understand the deep value of Hvidt & Mølgaard pieces:

• They stand the test of time, both structurally and stylistically

• Their use of solid teak gives them weight, warmth, and unique grain variation

• Their forms work in both minimalist and eclectic interiors, offering versatility without compromise

• Original pieces are increasingly rare and highly collectable, especially well-preserved case goods and modular systems

---

Discover Hvidt & Mølgaard at Hobbs Modern

At Hobbs Modern, we’re proud to feature work by Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, particularly their solid teak case pieces and modular wall units, restored with care and precision. These are heirloom-quality works that honor both the artistry and the innovation of Danish design.

👉 Browse available Hvidt & Mølgaard pieces or contact us to inquire about upcoming inventory.
Let us help you bring a rare piece of Danish architectural history into your space.

Continue reading

Poul Kjærholm: The Steel Poet of Danish Modern Design

When we think of Danish Modern design, names like Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, and Finn Juhl immediately come to mind. But standing apart—and arguably above in terms of conceptual rigor—is Poul Kjærholm. While his contemporaries worked primarily in wood, Kjærholm took a different path, forging a legacy built on steel, leather, and restraint. Today, his work is among the most coveted in the world of design collecting.

A Different Kind of Danish Modern

Poul Kjærholm (1929–1980) was trained as a cabinetmaker but quickly became more interested in industrial materials, especially steel. Unlike many of his peers who saw metal as cold or impersonal, Kjærholm saw poetry in its precision. He once said he viewed steel as a material with the same artistic merit as wood—if not more. His unique perspective helped to expand the boundaries of what Danish Modern could be.

While others explored organic curves and warm teak, Kjærholm pursued minimalism with a sculptural sensibility. His pieces feel more aligned with Bauhaus principles than with the cozy domesticity often associated with Scandinavian design. Yet they still exhibit the same care for craftsmanship, proportion, and human comfort.

Why Kjærholm Matters

Kjærholm’s importance lies in his ability to bridge art, architecture, and furniture. His designs are not just functional objects; they are quiet statements—balanced, restrained, and deeply considered. He worked closely with Fritz Hansen early in his career, but it was his long-standing partnership with E. Kold Christensen that produced his most iconic work, including the PK22 lounge chair, PK61 coffee table, and the PK80 daybed.

These pieces defy trends and remain timeless, occupying that rare space where design becomes both utilitarian and museum-worthy. In fact, his work is part of permanent collections at institutions such as MoMA in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The Details Matter: Allen Screws and Leather

Kjærholm’s devotion to precision went far beyond material choice. One of the most fascinating details is his use of Allen screws imported from the United States. At the time, these were not common in Denmark, but Kjærholm selected them for their refined look, superior strength, and hexagonal recess—which aligned perfectly with his vision of clean, uninterrupted lines. These screws allowed for disassembly without visible fasteners, reinforcing the purity of form he sought in each design. The use of industrial hardware was deliberate—it highlighted the beauty of engineering rather than hiding it.

 Rare PK24 (Click Here)

His choice of leather also reflects his quiet sophistication. Kjærholm favored natural, untreated leathers that would age gracefully, developing patina and character over time. In contrast to the coolness of steel, the leather brought warmth and tactility to his designs, creating a perfect balance between hard and soft, industrial and organic. Each material was chosen not just for function but for how it would evolve, deepen, and interact with the human body and the surrounding space.

Why Kjærholm is Collectible

There are several reasons why Kjærholm's pieces are highly sought after:

1. Material Innovation: His use of stainless steel and leather was groundbreaking within the context of Danish furniture. The contrast between cold metal and warm leather feels both modern and timeless.

2. Architectural Appeal: Kjærholm’s work resonates with architects and serious collectors because of its structural honesty and purity of form. These are pieces that elevate a space without overwhelming it.

3. Limited Production: Many of his pieces were produced in relatively small quantities, particularly those manufactured by E. Kold Christensen. Collectors often seek out these early editions, identifiable by subtle construction differences and the use of original materials.

4. Rarity and Provenance: Original PK pieces, especially from the Kold Christensen era, have become increasingly rare. Provenance, condition, and originality (especially the patina of the leather and the untouched steel finish) significantly affect value.

5. Timeless Aesthetic: His commitment to minimalism has allowed his designs to age with extraordinary grace. They feel as cutting-edge today as they did in the 1950s and 60s.

The Quiet Power of Restraint

Poul Kjærholm may not have been as prolific as some of his peers, but the depth and clarity of his vision have ensured his lasting influence. He didn’t follow trends—he followed form, material, and philosophy. In doing so, he created a body of work that feels more like sculpture than furniture, more like architecture than decoration.

For collectors, designers, and design lovers, owning a Kjærholm piece is more than acquiring furniture—it’s participating in a lineage of modernism that celebrates restraint, integrity, and elegance. In the world of Danish Modern, where warmth and wood often take center stage, Poul Kjærholm is the cool, cerebral counterpoint—reminding us that steel, too, can be deeply human. 

---

Continue reading

At first glance, his designs may seem simple, but at closer inspection they are full of detail. Inventive and bordering on engineering. He drew, sculpted, made prototypes, was involved in production and participated in the entire process down to every test and launch. He was a creative designer, maybe one of the greatest designers in the golden age of Danish design.

Continue reading

Edward Wormley: The Quiet Force Behind American Modernism

When the conversation turns to Mid-Century Modern icons, names like Eames, Nelson, and Bertoia often come up first. But any serious collector or design historian knows that Edward Wormley deserves a seat at that table—if not the head of it. A master of blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, Wormley brought an elevated, cosmopolitan sensibility to American furniture design.

His work for Dunbar Furniture Company blurred the lines between classic and contemporary, creating pieces that remain deeply collectable, sophisticated, and quietly revolutionary.

---

1. A Bridge Between Eras

Unlike many of his contemporaries who rejected the past in favor of a sleek, new future, Wormley saw the value in tradition. His genius was in updating classical forms with modern materials, scale, and function. He respected the roots of furniture design—18th-century English, Regency, even Asian influences—but interpreted them through the lens of American Modernism.

This balancing act gave his work a timeless quality that avoided trend-chasing. Wormley’s pieces feel neither aggressively futuristic nor stuck in the past—they feel inevitable.

---

2. The Dunbar Era: Craftsmanship Meets Innovation

Wormley was hired by Dunbar in 1931 and stayed with the company for more than three decades, becoming its lead designer and elevating it to one of the most respected furniture brands in America. What set Dunbar apart—largely thanks to Wormley—was a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and a forward-thinking approach to design.

While other companies embraced mass production, Wormley’s designs for Dunbar often featured:

• Hand-fitted joinery

• Exotic woods like rosewood and primavera

• Brass, leather, and woven cane details

• Custom upholstery in luxurious textures

Dunbar furniture was built to the highest standards and marketed to a sophisticated clientele, including architects and designers furnishing modern homes.

---

3. Signature Pieces That Endure

Wormley’s portfolio is vast, but a few designs stand out as enduring icons:

• The Model 5006 Long John Bench: A minimalist slatted design that can still be found in high-end interiors today.

• The Janus Collection (1957): A visionary blend of modern and classical influences, showcasing Wormley’s range.

• Sofas and sectionals with floating frames, curved arms, and low, horizontal profiles—comfort-driven yet sculptural.

• Case goods with leather pulls, tambour doors, or inset marble—a mix of utility and ornament.

These pieces are sought after today not just for their style, but because they were built to last. Many survive in pristine condition or have been lovingly restored.

---

4. Understated, But Not Underestimated

Edward Wormley never sought the spotlight. He wasn’t trying to redefine modernism with bombast or provocation. Instead, he pursued a quieter path—designing furniture that made everyday living more elegant, intelligent, and humane.

His interiors weren’t filled with sharp contrasts or ironic gestures. They were cohesive, calm, and impeccably crafted. In many ways, Wormley laid the groundwork for the kind of livable modernism that still defines good design today.

---

5. Why Wormley Matters Now

As interest in 20th-century design continues to grow, Wormley’s pieces have become increasingly collectable, and for good reason:

• They blend beautifully into both traditional and modern interiors

• They reflect high-end American craftsmanship rarely matched today

• Their understated luxury and intelligent proportions never go out of style

Collectors value them not only for their beauty but also for their substance. A Wormley piece is never just a pretty silhouette—it’s a tactile, well-engineered object meant to be used and appreciated for generations.

---

Explore Edward Wormley at Hobbs Modern

At Hobbs Modern, we’ve long admired Edward Wormley’s genius. We frequently feature restored Dunbar pieces and other Wormley designs, each selected for its craftsmanship and integrity.

👉 Browse Our Collection or contact us to learn more about what’s currently available.
Let us help you bring timeless American Modernism into your space—with authenticity, elegance, and soul.

Edward Wormley occupies a singular position in the history of modern design, bridging the gap between American traditionalism and the forward-thinking aesthetics of the mid-century movement. While often less overtly radical than some of his contemporaries—such as Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, or George Nelson—Wormley’s work for Dunbar Furniture represents a refined synthesis of classical European craftsmanship, Scandinavian simplicity, and modernist functionalism. His ability to straddle these worlds make him an enduring and favourite designer to this day.

In a time when dupes, copies and mass production have become the norm, Wormley’s work serves as a reminder of the value of thoughtful design and enduring quality. His furniture not only embodies the highest ideals of modernism but also offers a timeless elegance that continues to captivate and inspire. 

Continue reading

Hans Wegner’s twist was to cut the armrests free from the seat for lightness and ease of movement. The arms were designed with a gap underneath for practical reasons. He wanted to create an armchair you could move your legs around and in: stick them through the sides and not just over the arms but under the arms as well. Hans Wegner understood that people can be restless when sitting.

 

Continue reading

Mid-Century Modern design is a style that has captured the hearts of many with its timeless allure and practical functionality. Emerging in the mid-20th century, this design movement is known for its clean lines, organic forms, and an emphasis on functionality. Among the various elements that define this era, credenza furniture stands out as a quintessential piece that embodies the elegance and utility of Mid-Century Modern design. Continue reading

Midcentury Modern design is a style that has been loved by furniture fans for many years. Emerging in the mid-20th century, this design movement is celebrated for its clean lines, functional forms, and minimalist aesthetic. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend easily with many decor styles while maintaining a distinct, timeless character. For those passionate about real, restored old furniture, Hobbs Modern is a go-to source. Continue reading

Vintage brass table lamps are charming pieces in the Mid-Century Modern design style. These lamps are not just lighting fixtures; they are art pieces that tell a story from the past. Their timeless appeal and detailed craftsmanship make them a sought-after addition to any home. In this article, we will explore the history, design characteristics, and maintenance tips for these beautiful lamps. Continue reading

Mid-Century Modern style is highly regarded in the world of interior design, known for its clean lines, organic forms, and timeless appeal. This design movement, which became popular from the mid-20th century, continues to influence contemporary aesthetics, combining function and elegance. This style focuses on using high-quality materials, with leather being a popular choice for living room furniture. Leather living rooms embody a sense of luxury and sophistication, making them a popular choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The rich texture and durability of leather not only enhance the visual appeal of a space but also offer practical benefits that align perfectly with Mid-Century Modern principles. Continue reading