William Wohlert (1920–2007)

Danish architect and professor – known for Louisiana and modernist architecture

Vilhelm Wohlert was one of Denmark's most important architects of the 20th century. He worked in a modernist tradition, where function, choice of materials and the spirit of the place went hand in hand. He is most famous for the Louisiana art museum, which he designed in collaboration with Jørgen Bo – a project that would shape his entire life's work. Wohlert left his mark both in Denmark and internationally through museums, churches, homes and extensive restoration work.

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Background and education

Povl Vilhelm Wohlert was born in Copenhagen in 1920. After graduating in 1938, he began studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts' School of Architecture, graduating in 1944 under Kaare Klint. Klint's focus on function, materials and clarity in architecture was crucial to Wohlert's own approach. He subsequently worked in Stockholm with Sven Ivar Lind, Sven Markelius and Hakon Ahlberg, which broadened his modernist horizons before returning to Denmark.

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Career and work

In 1949 Wohlert opened his own design studio and in the 1950s he began a long-term collaboration with architect Jørgen Bo. Together they designed a number of iconic buildings, of which the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Humlebæk (1957–1991) became their best-known work. The museum's simple building form, integrated into the landscape with a view of the Øresund, became a milestone in Danish and international museum architecture.

Wohlert was also behind a number of churches – including Stengård Church in Gladsaxe (1962), Margrethe Church in Valby (1970) and Vejleå Church in Ishøj (1985–97). He also designed the Danish Embassy in Brazil (1972–74), the Technological Institute in Høje Taastrup (1968–78) and a number of residential and institutional buildings. As a restoration architect, he was known for his careful work on, among others, Roskilde Cathedral, Vor Frue Church in Copenhagen, Dehns Palæ and Amalienborg Palace.

In addition to his practice, he worked as a professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen (1968–1986) and was an advisor to UNESCO in several countries, including Afghanistan, Yemen and Morocco.

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Characteristics of the architecture

Vilhelm Wohlert's architecture is characterized by a modernist clarity, respect for the surroundings and a restrained use of materials. His buildings are characterized by a special balance between light, space and function, often with large window areas and beautiful integration into the landscape. With Louisiana, he set new standards for museum architecture, where art, architecture and nature merge into a holistic experience.

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Iconic furniture and works by Vilhelm Wohlert

• Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (Humlebæk, 1957–91, m. Jørgen Bo) – internationally recognized masterpiece of Danish modernism.
• Stengård Church (Gladsaxe, 1962, m. Rolf Graae) – simple and light-filled church.
• Margrethe Church (Valby, 1970, m. Rolf Graae) – a striking church building in concrete elements.
• Vejleå Church (Ishøj, 1985–97, m. Claus Wohlert) – known for its sculptural form and modern church space.
• The Danish Embassy (Brazil, 1972–74, with Jørgen Bo) – Danish modernism in an international context.
• Technological Institute (Høje Taastrup, 1968–78) – groundbreaking institutional construction.
• Restoration of Roskilde Cathedral (1984–86, with Inger and Johannes Exner) – reverent preservation of a national monument.
• Piano Chair (OS1) (1955, for P. Jeppesen) – functional musician's chair with elegant design.
• Shaker chair, Model 3 (1957, for Søborg Møbelfabrik) – inspired by the Shaker tradition.
• Triangle Chair (1952, for Odense Stolefabrik) – geometric and innovative chair.
• The Satellite lamp – a distinctive pendant with sculptural aesthetics.
• Louisiana Pendant – developed for the Louisiana Museum, where light and architecture merge.
• The floor lamp model 325 (for Le Klint) – classic Wohlert design in lighting.
  
  

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Producers and collaboration

• Jørgen Bo – many years of collaboration, including Louisiana and several residential projects.
• Rolf Graae – collaboration on several churches.
• Inger and Johannes Exner – collaboration on Frederik IX's Chapel at Roskilde Cathedral.
• UNESCO – advisor on projects in, among others, Afghanistan, Yemen and Morocco.
• Arne Poulsen – simple cabinetmaker's furniture in the classic tradition.
• Ludvig Pontoppidan – production of furniture of high craftsmanship quality.
• Odense Chair Factory – including Triangle Chair from 1952 and bar stools.
• Søborg Furniture Factory – known for the Model 401 Armchair from 1957.
• P. Jeppesen – chairs and especially the OS1 Piano Chair from 1955.
• Næstved Furniture Factory – storage furniture and chests of drawers.
• Sorø Stolefabrik – Model 3 Side Chair shown at the Fredericia Furniture Fair in 1959.
  
  

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Legacy and legacy

Vilhelm Wohlert died in 2007, but his architecture lives on as some of the most striking examples of Danish modernism. Louisiana stands as an international icon, while his churches, embassies and restorations testify to a deep respect for both tradition and contemporary times. Wohlert managed to create architecture on a human scale, where art, nature and construction merge. His works are today protected and are celebrated as an inevitable part of Denmark's architectural history.

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Discover Vilhelm Wohlert's works at KLASSIK

At KLASSIK you will find original furniture and design works by Vilhelm Wohlert – from rare chairs and tables to classic architect-designed details. All works are carefully selected for authenticity and quality.

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