Mogens Koch

Mogens Koch (born March 2, 1898 in Frederiksberg, died September 16, 1992 in Copenhagen) was a Danish architect and professor at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts 1950-68.

Mogens Koch (1898–1992)

Danish architect and furniture designer – timeless functionalism

Mogens Koch was one of the most significant figures in Danish furniture design and architecture. As an architect, professor and furniture designer, he set a high standard for functionalism, where simplicity, flexibility and craftsmanship were central values. His furniture was not intended to impress with decoration, but to serve a clear function with an understated elegance and long life.

"The highest form of simplicity results in something lasting, which is completely free from fashion influences. That is why simplicity is also as contemporary as, for example, the shelving system." – Mogens Koch


Background and education

After graduating from high school, Mogens Koch was admitted to the Danish Academy of Fine Arts' School of Architecture in 1917 and graduated in 1925. He received his professional training in the design studios of Carl Petersen, Ivar Bentsen and Kaare Klint , whose functionalist ideas about simplicity and standardization became crucial to Koch's own design philosophy.


Career and work

In 1934, Mogens Koch established his own design studio together with his cousin, Peter Koch. Here he worked with architecture, furniture design, typography and textiles. His furniture was characterized by a rigorous design language without superfluous decoration, made of honest materials such as wood, leather, wool and brass. He was behind simple, functional solutions that still seem contemporary today.

As an architect, he was particularly known for his work with churches and restorations. From 1950 to 1968, he was professor of architecture at the Danish Academy of Fine Arts and played a central role in the education of a new generation of Danish architects. He was responsible for the restorations of several Danish churches and Roskilde Cathedral, and he participated in the transformation of Frederiks Hospital into Designmuseum Danmark.

Koch's architecture and furniture were driven by a holistic approach, where function, proportions and choice of materials were integrated into a higher unity. Although he often stood in the shadow of contemporaries such as H.J. Wegner , B. Mogensen and A. Jacobsen , his works are today considered among the most refined examples of the ideals of functionalism.


Iconic furniture by Mogens Koch

Most of Mogens Koch's furniture is created with an architectural clarity and an uncompromising understanding of function. His designs unite logic and aesthetics in a way that has made them enduring symbols of Danish functionalism.

  • The Byggereolsystemet (1928) – Mogens Koch’s most iconic work. A flexible and modular shelving system consisting of cabinets, bookcases, display cases and plinths that could be expanded and adapted as needed. The system became a pioneering example of functionalist thinking and is still used today for its timeless functionality and aesthetics.
  • Partners Desk – a classic desk in solid wood with a well-proportioned and functional design.
  • MK16 Folding Chair (1933) – foldable chair with simple construction and logical design.
  • The fireplace chair – comfortable armchair, designed for relaxation and warmth by the fireplace.
  • MK19 Folding Table – practical table with functional folding mechanism that can be used in flexible room layouts.


Producers and collaboration

  • Rud. Rasmussen – production of, among others, the Construction Chair and the Folding Chair.
  • Carl Hansen & Son – later production and relaunch of several of Koch's classics.
  • Knud Juul-Hansen – including desks in functionalist design.
  • Interna – folding chairs and folding tables, including for public spaces.
  • Holger Larsen & With Nielsen – including a cot and cabinets in classic Koch style.
  • NC Jensen Kjær – beautiful cabinets in precious woods, as well as the YinYang table (1952).
  • Fredericia Furniture – has put a few designs into production today.


Legacy and legacy

Mogens Koch died in 1992, but his furniture and architecture still stand as examples of timeless functionalism. His designs – especially the Byggreole system and the Folding Chair – are now considered Danish design classics, known for their simplicity, flexibility and durability. He was uncompromising in his approach and contributed a legacy that continues to characterize Danish furniture design and architecture.


Experience Mogens Koch's original furniture at KLASSIK

At KLASSIK you will find original furniture by Mogens Koch – including the Construction Shelving System, the MK16 Folding Chair and the MK19 Folding Table – carefully selected for authenticity and quality.

If you can't find the exact piece of furniture you're looking for, we're happy to help. Contact us at support@klassik.dk or call 33 33 90 60 – or visit us at Bredgade 3, Copenhagen.