Torbjørn Afdal Krobo bench

This is the Krobo bench or side table, designed by Norwegian designer Torbjørn Afdal and produced by Mellemstrands Møbelfabrikk under the Bruksbo label in Norway during the 1960s. The piece is executed in solid rosewood, exhibiting a rich, deep reddish-brown tone with striking, natural grain patterns characteristic of this tropical hardwood. The design features a long, rectangular top with raised edges and rounded corners, supported by two geometric box-frame legs that provide both structural stability and visual symmetry. A horizontal stretcher detail beneath the top adds additional reinforcement and design coherence.

Torbjørn Afdal was a leading figure in post-war Norwegian design, renowned for his sophisticated, functional furniture that bridged traditional craftsmanship with modernist ideals. His works, often produced by Mellemstrands and under the Bruksbo label, gained international attention for their elegance, precision, and use of premium materials. The Krobo series in particular was conceived as a multifunctional solution, usable as a bench, low table, or platform, and it became one of Afdal’s most celebrated contributions to Scandinavian design history.

This example has been fully restored and is presented in excellent vintage condition. The restoration work has preserved the wood’s natural patina while ensuring structural integrity and surface quality, with no visible cracks or discoloration.

The dimensions of the piece are 120 cm in width, 37 cm in depth, and 34 cm in height. In imperial units, this translates to approximately 47.2 inches wide, 14.6 inches deep, and 13.4 inches high. The minimalist form, material richness, and precision of execution place this piece firmly within the Scandinavian modern tradition of the mid-twentieth century.