Erik Buck Oak Daybed by Knud Juul-Hansen, 1950s

This rare daybed, designed by Erik Buck and produced by Knud Juul-Hansen in Denmark in 1953, is a distinctive example of early Danish modern furniture, combining natural materials with an understated industrial sensibility. The design reflects the transitional period of postwar Scandinavian design, where organic forms were increasingly paired with functional simplicity and durable construction.

The frame is crafted from solid oak, showcasing a warm, honey-toned patina that has developed over decades of use. The grain is clearly visible and contributes to the tactile and visual richness of the piece. Rounded edges and softened transitions throughout the frame demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and attention to comfort, while also emphasizing the clean, flowing lines characteristic of Scandinavian modernism.

Supporting the oak platform are dark green-painted metal legs that introduce a subtle industrial contrast. The color treatment of the metal is understated, offering depth without visual heaviness, and contributes to the overall sense of balance and refinement. The legs terminate in oak-tipped feet, a thoughtful and elegant detail that visually links the base to the wooden upper structure. This combination of wood and painted metal is rare for the period and adds to the daybed’s uniqueness.

The cushion has been reupholstered in Kvadrat™ Hallingdal wool, a benchmark fabric in Scandinavian furniture upholstery. Woven from wool and viscose, it offers excellent durability and a subtle, textural surface. The grey tone chosen for this restoration complements the natural oak and the muted green of the legs, creating a cohesive and neutral palette that aligns with the modernist ethos of timeless functionality.

The upholstery is fitted with precision, maintaining the slender, horizontal silhouette of the original design. The lack of excess detailing allows the quality of the materials and the clarity of form to take precedence. With its low profile and wide proportions, the daybed functions well as both a lounge and a decorative platform, suitable for a range of interior settings from residential living areas to modernist-inspired public spaces.

The dimensions—194.5 cm in width, 90.5 cm in depth, and 36.5 cm in height (approximately 76.6 x 35.6 x 14.4 inches)—make the daybed expansive enough for comfortable reclining while remaining unobtrusive in scale. Its proportions are thoughtfully balanced, offering both presence and lightness.

Erik Buck, known for his well-crafted and elegant furniture designs, often emphasized organic lines and practical comfort. Though primarily associated with dining and lounge chairs, this daybed reflects his broader design sensibilities—modest yet expressive, with a strong focus on material interplay and structural clarity. The collaboration with Knud Juul-Hansen, a lesser-known but highly skilled Danish cabinetmaker, adds to the historical interest of the piece.

In excellent vintage condition, this daybed retains its original structure with minimal signs of wear. The oak frame is solid and well-preserved, the metal legs show only light patina, and the new upholstery maintains the integrity of the original design.

Additional information:
Producer: Knud Juul-Hansen
Color: Green, Grey
Decade: 1950s
Country: Denmark
Style: Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern
Material: Fabric, Metal, Oak
Designed in: 1953
Dimensions: W: 194.5 / D: 90.5 / H: 36.5 cm
Item Number: 157133