Carl-Axel Acking (b. 1910), Swedish Architect & Furniture Designer

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Carl-Axel Acking in 1955
Carl-Axel Acking in 1955 | Pamono

Carl-Axel Acking (1910-2001) was a prominent architect, and interior and industrial designer, who was particularly active during the 1940s and 1950s. He is remembered for his important contribution to modernist architecture and design in Sweden.

Education

From 1931 to 1934, he studied at the National College of Art in Stockholm, then at the Art School and the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, graduating in 1939. 

Biography

In the 1930s, he worked as Gunnar Asplund’s assistant. In 1939, set up his design studio. Between 1943-64, he taught at Konstackskolan and 1964-76, Tekniska Skolan in Stockholm and the Tekniska HΓΆgskolan, Lund. He was the architect of the Swedish Embassy in Tokyo and the interior designer of ships of the North Star Line. He designed (with others) the 1955 ‘H 55’ exhibition, HΓ€lsingborg. In 1949, designed furnishings for Hotel Malmen, Stockholm.

Furniture

Seating and storage pieces made up the majority of Acking’s furniture design. His most famous designs include the Anette dressing table (1943) for Nordiska Kompaniet (NK); the Bentwood Chair (1944) β€”a chair assembled from just ten pieces which Acking hoped would be both practical for a modern family and suitable for mass production; the Trienna Chair (1957) for NKβ€”named after Milan’s Triennale, where the chair was exhibited; and the Tokyo Chair (1959)β€”originally designed for the Swedish Embassy in Tokyo. Acking experimented with designing lighting, textiles, and cabinets throughout his career.

Mid-Century Swedish Cabinet by Carl-Axel Acking

Mid-Century Swedish Cabinet by Carl-Axel Acking for Nordiska Kompaniet, 1953
Mid-Century Swedish Cabinet by Carl-Axel Acking for Nordiska Kompaniet, 1953 | 1stDibs

The Scandinavian Modern Cabinet in two-tone birch and walnut with beautiful inlay on the front doors is a stunning piece of furniture that will elevate any room it’s placed in. The sleek lines and minimalist design are characteristic of the Scandinavian style, emphasising functionality and simplicity. The two-tone finish adds visual interest and warmth to the piece, while the intricate inlay on the front doors adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Overall, this Scandinavian Modern Cabinet is a timeless piece that will stand the test of time and be cherished for years.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

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