Intarsia Furniture, a Danish heritage brand, is experiencing a renaissance under the leadership of Nanna Aakjær. Originally founded in 1948 by master carpenter and furniture designer Jørgen Aakjær Jørgensen and his wife, Lis Aakjær Jørgensen, the company was once renowned for its craftsmanship and dedication to Scandinavian design values. Now, nearly 75 years later, their granddaughter has taken on the task of reviving the legacy with a fresh vision that bridges classic Danish design with modern sensibilities.
Nanna Aakjær, CEO and owner of Intarsia Furniture.
Honouring heritage with contemporary design
Nanna Aakjær has made it her mission to reintroduce her grandfather's iconic furniture designs to a new generation of design enthusiasts. 'I grew up surrounded by my grandfather's furniture,' she shares. 'And even as a child, I could feel there was something special about it – the care, the details, the warmth. In 2019, I knew it was time to bring it back.'
With a background in Innovation and Design Management, Aakjær has focused on maintaining the essence of the original designs while subtly adapting them to fit modern interiors. 'I made only subtle changes,' she explains. 'We transitioned from darker woods like teak to lighter Nordic woods, such as oak, which feel more current. We also incorporated modern production techniques to ensure durability and easy maintenance – but the soul of the pieces remains intact.'
The Coffee Table No. 25 is designed in the1960's by Jørgen Aakjær Jørgensen.
The art of Intarsia and timeless craftsmanship
At the heart of the collection is the intricate intarsia technique, a rare woodworking method that involves inlaying different wood types to create decorative patterns. This craftsmanship, deeply rooted in Danish design heritage, is making a resurgence through Intarsia Furniture's modern reinterpretation.
One standout piece in the collection is the Heart Table, a design that holds deep personal significance for Aakjær . 'It's always been my favourite,' she says. 'It has a simplicity that's almost poetic. The intarsia detail is minimal yet full of character. Even after 70 years, it fits effortlessly into modern Nordic homes.'
Overcoming challenges and expanding horizons
Reviving a historical brand comes with its share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was sourcing skilled manufacturers who could uphold the high standards of traditional craftsmanship. After a year of prototyping and refining, the vision finally materialised, and today, Intarsia Furniture is gaining momentum beyond Denmark.
The company has expanded into international markets, with select retailers in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, and a new distributor in the United States. As demand grows, Aakjær remains committed to maintaining the brand's integrity and craftsmanship.
The Arcus Shelf is designed by Nanna Aakjær, with great inspiration from her grandfather.
A future rooted in tradition and innovation
Beyond business, Aakjær's work remains deeply personal. Her studio serves as both a creative hub and a family home, where inspiration is drawn from everyday life. 'I work during the day to keep everything running,' she shares. 'But the creative part often happens at night, when the house is quiet. That's when I reconnect with the joy of creating.'
Looking ahead, her vision is clear: to grow the brand organically while staying true to the values that defined her grandfather's work—quality, honesty, and beauty in simplicity. 'I hope we can bring this story to more people,' she reflects. 'To show that furniture can carry history. That craftsmanship still matters. And that design, when done right, is timeless.'
Additionally, they will also be participating in this year's 3 Days of Design at the following address: St. Regnegade 12, 2nd floor, 1110 Copenhagen K.
More information:
Intarsia Furniture
Fjordbakken 13, 9440 Aabybro
+45 2810 9391
[email protected]
www.intarsiafurniture.com
Denmark