Arne Emil Jacobsen (1902-1971) was a renowned Danish architect and furniture designer. Born in Copenhagen, Jacobsen initially aspired to be a painter, but his mother encouraged him to pursue the more secure field of architecture. He studied at the Architecture School at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts from 1924 to 1927.
During his studies, Jacobsen exhibited chair designs at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, where he received a Silver Medal. His early designs were influenced by the rationalist architecture of Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius.
After completing his studies, Jacobsen worked at city architect Poul Holsøe's architectural practice. In 1929, he won a Danish Architect's Association competition for designing the "House of the Future" which was built full scale at the subsequent exhibition in Copenhagen's Forum. This recognition led to Jacobsen setting up his own office.
One of Jacobsen's most iconic achievements is the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, completed in 1960. This project showcased his mastery of integrated design, as he not only designed the building itself but also the interior, furniture, and fixtures. The Egg and Swan chairs, created for the hotel, have since become iconic symbols of mid-century modern design.
In addition to his architectural pursuits, Jacobsen's influence extended to various design disciplines. He designed a range of household items, including cutlery, furniture, and lighting fixtures. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to simplicity made his designs both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
Arne Jacobsen's legacy endures through his timeless designs, which continue to be celebrated and faithfully produced by premium makers.