Rimbert Sandholt bedside tables

This rare and refined pair of side tables or bedside tables, designed by Rimbert Sandholt and produced by Glas & Trä Hovmantorp in Sweden, captures the essence of Scandinavian mid-century design through its meticulous craftsmanship, elegant proportions, and harmonious material palette.

Each table is crafted from richly figured rosewood, celebrated for its deep brown coloration and dramatic, swirling grain patterns. The rosewood surfaces are polished to a smooth, lustrous finish that brings out the organic character of the wood, while the subtle sheen adds visual depth. The contrast between the dark exterior and the lighter interior wood—possibly birch or beech—creates a visually engaging dialogue between warm and cool tones, a hallmark of Swedish furniture from this period.

Structurally, the tables feature a compact rectangular form elevated on finely tapered legs that provide both stability and lightness. The leg design, understated and elegant, contributes to a floating aesthetic, allowing the tables to maintain a minimal footprint while offering strong visual presence. The drawer fronts are gently curved in profile, a sophisticated detail that softens the geometric structure and reveals Sandholt’s attention to material continuity and ergonomic ease.

The drawers are seamlessly integrated into the body of the tables, with no protruding hardware to disrupt the clean lines. Their interiors, finished in a lighter wood, reflect the same level of craftsmanship as the exterior, reinforcing the thoughtful design ethos behind each component.

Rimbert Sandholt’s work, though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, is marked by a strong commitment to form, materiality, and proportion. His collaboration with Glas & Trä Hovmantorp, a Swedish manufacturer known for producing high-quality furniture during the postwar period, resulted in pieces that exemplify both aesthetic refinement and practical function.

In excellent vintage condition, the tables show only minimal wear, with surfaces and joinery exceptionally well preserved. The rosewood has developed a rich patina, and the finish remains vibrant and consistent throughout.

As a matched pair, these tables offer not only practicality for bedside or living room use but also a sculptural, timeless presence. They stand as exceptional examples of Swedish modern furniture design—reserved, functional, and quietly luxurious.