Kai Kristiansen desk

This rare freestanding desk, model 70, was designed by Danish designer Kai Kristiansen in 1958 and produced by Feldballes Møbelfabrik in Denmark. It exemplifies the precision, clarity, and refined materiality that define mid-century Danish design, and stands as a testament to Kristiansen’s skill in combining utility with sculptural presence.

Crafted in richly figured rosewood, the desk features a deep, warm tone enhanced by the complex, linear grain patterns characteristic of the species. The surface has been carefully preserved and polished, retaining a lustrous finish that emphasizes the organic variation in the wood. The coloration and texture contribute significantly to the visual depth and luxurious feel of the piece.

The design is defined by clean, architectural lines with a strong horizontal emphasis. The rectangular top rests on a frame supported by tapered, angular legs that subtly slope outward, providing both visual dynamism and structural stability. The desk is freestanding, designed to be viewed from all sides, and is equally compelling from the front and rear. The back includes open shelving, allowing the desk to function effectively in the center of a room as both a working surface and a spatial divider.

The drawer configuration typically includes two banks of drawers—one on each side—offering practical storage while maintaining the symmetry and balance of the overall form. The drawer fronts are integrated seamlessly into the design, often with minimal or recessed pulls that reinforce the clean aesthetic.

Measuring 172 cm in width, 85 cm in depth, and 72 cm in height (approximately 67.7 × 33.5 × 28.3 inches), the desk offers ample working surface and storage capacity while maintaining a relatively light visual footprint.

Kai Kristiansen (born 1929) is regarded as one of the most innovative voices in Danish modernism. Known for his architectural training and functionalist sensibilities, Kristiansen developed a design language that is both rigorous and elegant. His furniture often features bold geometry, refined joinery, and an intuitive understanding of materials. The model 70 desk reflects these qualities, combining minimalist structure with expressive woodwork.

Feldballes Møbelfabrik, a Danish manufacturer active during the golden age of Scandinavian modernism, was known for its close collaborations with leading designers and its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. The production of this model underlines the workshop’s ability to execute complex forms with precision and sensitivity to material.

The desk is in excellent vintage condition, with minor signs of age-related wear and a well-maintained surface.