Ib Kofod-Larsen, a prominent Danish designer, was a visionary in the 1950s and 1960s, though often overlooked in design history. Born in Aalborg in 1921, Kofod-Larsen trained as a cabinetmaker before studying architecture at the Royal Academy in Copenhagen. Rejecting traditional design, he became known for innovative works, such as the reversible dining table at the 1949 Cabinetmakers’ Exhibition, which featured the first use of plastic at the event.
His "Penguin Chair" gained international success, and his 1956 U-56 chair, later known as the Elisabeth Chair, became a hallmark of Danish design. The Elisabeth Chair, combining organic shapes and a sculptural wooden frame, exemplified Kofod-Larsen’s signature style, with splayed back legs and an ergonomic design. It gained further recognition after Queen Elizabeth II ordered two in 1958.
Despite his early success, Kofod-Larsen shifted his focus abroad, designing for companies in the U.S., Sweden, Britain, and Germany. His international work for Selig, OPE, and G-Plan garnered him more acclaim, though his presence in Denmark faded. A private figure, Kofod-Larsen rarely spoke about his work. He passed away on his 82nd birthday in 2003, leaving behind a legacy defined by his aesthetic, craftsmanship, and bold use of materials.
