Paying tribute to a pioneering designer
Dubbed the grande dame of Danish design, Nanna Ditzel (1923–2005) is regarded as one of the most visionary and versatile figures in 20th-century Scandinavian design.
Over six prolific decades, Ditzel’s work defied categorisation yet remained deeply human. Her legacy is defined by elegance, innovation, and clarity of vision—an enduring voice in the global design conversation.
In 1989, Ditzel joined Fredericia as the second house designer, following the house’s close and formative collaboration with Børge Mogensen. Under the leadership of Thomas Graversen, the next generation of the family-run business embraced Ditzel’s vision. Together, they created groundbreaking designs that bridged the gap between design heritage and the spirit of contemporary culture.
“ When I begin work on a new chair, everything is possible; everything is allowed. It’s a challenge. ”
Nanna Ditzel, 1994
A designer breaking the rules
Nanna Ditzel has deservedly positioned herself in the history of design due to her many striking and innovative designs across centuries and disciplines. Being a generation after legendary architects and designers like Børge Mogensen and Hans J. Wegner, Ditzel also studied under the master architect and designer Kaare Klint at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts after graduating as a cabinetmaker and while studying as a furniture architect at the School of Arts and Craft.
Product highlights
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Taking design to new heights
In September 2023, Trapholt – Museum of Modern Art and Design opened the most extensive exhibition on Nanna Ditzel ever staged. Earlier that spring, a sneak peek of the exhibition was showcased at Fredericia's Copenhagen Showroom.
Perspectives on Nanna Ditzel
Learn more about Nanna Ditzel through conversations with the people who knew her, worked with her and studied her from afar.
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Keep exploring
Nanna Ditzel’s approach to design was shaped by an interest in how furniture accommodates the body and how a seat can create a space of its own. Explore our universe of Nanna Ditzel stories and discover the legacy of this iconic designer.
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