Sofas by Poul Kjærholm

Læs beskrivelsen Læs mindre

Poul Kjærholm is known for his minimalist and sculptural design, where steel and leather meet in a timeless aesthetic. Among his most iconic sofas are the PK31 series (PK31/2 and PK31/3), which balances simplicity with exceptional comfort, as well as the rare PK26 wall-mounted sofa, which almost floats freely in the room. At KLASSIK, you will find original Poul Kjærholm sofas from early manufacturers, including E. Kold Christensen, characterized by their authenticity, quality, and collector's potential. Each Poul Kjærholm sofa is an investment piece in international design history.

The story behind

Poul Kjærholm holds a unique position in Danish furniture design. Trained as a cabinetmaker and later as an architect, he consistently worked with construction, proportion, and the inherent character of materials. This approach is particularly evident in his sofas. Poul Kjærholm sofas are designed with a clear constructive logic, where steel forms the frame and the upholstery is precisely fitted.

The PK 31 series from 1958, as well as the PK 80 from 1957 and the wall-mounted PK 26 from 1965, demonstrate the breadth of his work with sofas and daybeds. Several of the models were produced by E. Kold Christensen and later by Fritz Hansen, which is a significant part of their documented history.

Design and materials

Kjærholm's sofas are built around steel frames – most often chromed, matte chrome, or brushed – with cushions in leather or textile. The construction is visible and meticulously crafted, and the connection between the frame and upholstery is executed with great precision. The expression is sleek, and the comfort lies in the well-balanced proportions and the quality of the materials.

Depending on the model, manufacturer, and period, details may vary. This applies to surfaces, upholstery, and minor structural aspects. However, the basic form and the overall idea are consistently maintained.

Known models of Poul Kjærholm sofas

PK 31/2 – 2-seater sofa

The PK 31/2 is the compact version in the PK 31 series, designed in 1958. The sofa consists of a freestanding steel frame, into which the cubic cushions are fitted with precise spacing from the frame. The model has been produced by both E. Kold Christensen and later Fritz Hansenand is available in various leather and textile finishes.

PK 31/3 – 3-seater sofa

The PK 31/3 continues the series' design language on a larger scale. The long, horizontal lines are emphasized by the slender steel frame, while the spacious cushions give the sofa weight. The model was designed in 1958 and is known from production by both EKC and FH.

PK 31/4 – 4-seater sofa

The PK 31/4 is the longest version of the series. It maintains the same constructive structure as the other models, but with an extension that gives the sofa a distinctive horizontal character. Examples are seen with matte chrome steel frames and upholstery in various types of leather.

PK 26 – wall-mounted sofa

The PK 26 is a wall-mounted sofa designed in 1965 and constructed as modules. The spring steel construction supports the deep-tufted cushions and frees up the floor space beneath the sofa. The model was produced by Fritz Hansen and is also seen from the period by E. Kold Christensen.

PK 80 – daybed

The PK 80 from 1957 is a daybed with a steel frame and a tightly upholstered mattress. The simple construction and clear lines are characteristic of Kjærholm's work. The PK 80 has been produced by both E. Kold Christensen and Fritz Hansen.

Restoration at KLASSIK

At KLASSIK, each Poul Kjærholm sofa is individually assessed. Some are preserved with their existing patina, while others are carefully restored in our own workshop. We work with materials from Sørensen Leather, among others, and textiles from Kvadrat, and we adjust the upholstery so that proportions and expression are as close as possible to the original.

The goal is to preserve the furniture's character and construction.

Sell your Poul Kjærholm sofa to KLASSIK

We purchase original Poul Kjærholm sofas from the period 1920s to 1980s, including models such as PK 31/2, PK 31/3, PK 31/4, PK 26, and PK 80. If you wish to sell, you can send pictures and a short description to bud@klassik.dk
, after which our purchasing department will make a specific assessment.

Originality and sustainability

An original Kjærholm sofa is characterized by material quality, precision in execution, and a construction where nothing is left to chance. Natural patina and signs of wear are often part of the furniture's history and can underscore its authenticity.

Preserving and restoring existing furniture extends the lifespan of a meticulously crafted piece and is a conscious choice.

Contact us

At KLASSIK, since 1991, we have worked with the purchase, sale, and careful restoration of original Danish design classics. You are always welcome in our store at Bredgade 3, 1260 Copenhagen K.

Phone: +45 33 33 90 60
Email: support@klassik.dk

Web: klassik.dk
Instagram: @klassikcopenhagen