Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen bookcase

This very rare storage system with integrated bar and writing desk, designed by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen and produced by Søborg Møbler in 1952, exemplifies the refined functionality and material richness central to Danish modernism. Executed in solid teak, the piece is marked by its architectural clarity, modular structure, and thoughtful detailing, making it a standout example of postwar Scandinavian furniture design.

The storage system is composed of a series of vertically stacked and horizontally connected components, combining open shelving, closed compartments, and drawer units into a cohesive and balanced arrangement. The teak surfaces display a deep, golden-brown patina, with expressive grain patterns that enhance the organic warmth of the wood. The craftsmanship is evident in details such as dovetail joinery, seamless transitions, and carefully integrated wooden pulls, which reinforce the sense of integrity and tactile refinement.

A notable feature of the system is its multifunctional center module, which serves either as a drop-front writing desk or as a concealed bar. Behind the elegant tambour doors lies a versatile interior space fitted with shelves and compartments, ideal for storing writing materials, glassware, or spirits. The tambour mechanism, constructed with precision, glides smoothly and allows for space-saving functionality—an elegant and practical solution that reflects the designers’ commitment to utility without aesthetic compromise.

The upper and lower sections include open shelves and drawers of varying dimensions, providing generous storage for books, tableware, or personal items. The modularity of the unit suggests that it was designed not only as a fixed object but also as a customizable system that could adapt to changing needs and environments, a forward-thinking concept for its time.

Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen were instrumental in defining the direction of Danish furniture in the mid-20th century. Known for their light, rational forms and innovative production methods, the duo collaborated with several leading manufacturers and left a legacy of enduring designs. Their work often bridges the artisanal tradition of cabinetmaking with a modernist embrace of efficiency and clarity, as demonstrated in this system.

In excellent vintage condition, the storage unit retains its structural solidity and original finish, with a warm patina and light wear consistent with age. It remains fully functional and visually intact, testifying to the durability of both the materials and the design concept.

This piece stands as a rare and highly collectible example of Scandinavian modern design—elegant in form, versatile in function, and exemplary in craftsmanship. It embodies the ideals of Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen’s design philosophy: to create furniture that enhances everyday living through intelligent form and enduring beauty.