Frode Holm trolley

This is a rare mid-century Scandinavian trolley designed by Frode Holm and produced by Illums Bolighus in Copenhagen, Denmark during the 1950s. The trolley is constructed from a combination of solid mahogany and beech wood, showcasing the deep brown hues typical of mahogany along with the softer, reddish warmth of beech. The structural frame and legs are elegantly tapered, reflecting the refined craftsmanship associated with Danish modern furniture of the postwar period.

The trolley features a rectangular top with softly rounded corners and molded edges. The top surface is hinged, allowing it to open in a butterfly-wing fashion, doubling its usable width when needed. Beneath the top, a fixed lower shelf is divided into two compartments, each with integrated removable trays. These trays fit snugly within the frame, offering practical storage while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. The side handle is sculpted from solid wood and integrated into the leg structure, enhancing the trolley’s ease of mobility. Four small, unobtrusive black castors allow for smooth movement across various surfaces.

Frode Holm, while lesser-known than some of his contemporaries, contributed to the Danish modern design movement with an emphasis on functionally refined pieces. Illums Bolighus, the producer, is a prominent Danish design retailer and producer known for collaborating with leading Scandinavian designers and architects. The company’s legacy of quality craftsmanship and forward-thinking design helped promote Danish modernism internationally.

This trolley is a prime example of mid-century Scandinavian design ideals, merging simplicity with versatility and elegance with everyday functionality. The folding top and removable trays reflect the era’s interest in multifunctional living, particularly in compact spaces. The piece remains in good vintage condition, with light wear consistent with age and use, including minor surface marks and patina to the wood and brass hardware.

The dimensions of the trolley are 77 cm in width, 42 cm in depth, and 59 cm in height. When fully opened, the width approximately doubles. In imperial units, the dimensions are approximately 30.3 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep, and 23.2 inches high.