Sweden outshines Denmark in design

Designers like Arne Jacobsen, Hans J. Wegner, Borge Mogensen and Poul Kjaerholm brought international renown to Danish design. But according to Mark Isitt, editor in chief of Forum design magazine, this success has its downside. He points out that Danish designers who were once renowned for their innovative creations are now content to busy themselves with managing the results of their success. "Sweden has left Denmark far behind as far as furniture and product design are concerned. Its products are much more dynamic and colourful, whereas Danish design is dominated by fear and anxiety. Danish designers are trying too hard, getting lost in details and technicalities and forgetting their creativity. Perhaps this is because Denmark has such a strong tradition in furniture design. All Sweden has, on the other hand, is Ikea – so things could only get better."

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