Rolf Rastad

Rolf Rastad (born 1916) was a Norwegian interior architect and furniture designer best known for his influential collaboration with Adolf Relling. Together, they became central figures in the development of Norwegian mid-century modern design, creating furniture and interiors defined by functional clarity, craftsmanship, and understated elegance.

Biography

Rastad studied at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry before briefly working for the furniture manufacturer Hiorth & Østlyngen. In 1943, he co-founded the design office Rastad & Relling in Oslo together with Adolf Relling, establishing one of Norway’s most recognized postwar design partnerships.

The studio produced furniture and interiors that reflected the ideals of Scandinavian modernism through balanced proportions, practical functionality, and refined material use. Among their most notable designs is the iconic “Bambi” chair, now regarded as a classic of Norwegian mid-century furniture.

In addition to furniture production, Rastad & Relling completed important interior commissions for institutions and public spaces, including the Norwegian Royal Yacht Norge, the Norwegian Parliament, and the Grand Hotel in Oslo. Their work helped define a distinctly Norwegian interpretation of modernism that balanced architectural discipline with warmth and comfort.

Following the dissolution of the partnership in 1970, Rastad continued independently and remained active within the furniture industry. Today, his work is appreciated for its contribution to the international recognition of Scandinavian postwar design.