AX HM11 lounge chair designed by Hvidt & Mølgaard for &Tradition with dark-stained oak veneer or lacquered frame with walnut inserts.
In 1948, the Museum of Modern Art in New York launched the prestigious "International Competition for Low-Cost Furniture Design," an event that attracted some of the most brilliant minds of the era, including Hans J. Wegner, Charles Eames, Robin Day, Marcel Breuer, and Marco Zanuso. Among the participants were Hvidt & Mølgaard, who presented several designs exploring laminated wood, positioning themselves at the forefront of a groundbreaking movement. The global attention generated by the competition inspired the duo to develop the AX collection.
Designed in 1950, the AX chair emerged during a period of intense creative energy in the post-war years, an era marked by innovation and the democratization of design. A pioneer in the use of laminated veneer, the AX was among the first examples of three-dimensionally molded plywood, redefining the concept of comfort in wooden seating. This advanced technique allowed for an ergonomic and inviting structure without the need for upholstery, maximizing comfort while maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
The AX collection was an immediate international success, culminating in the prestigious Diplôme d'Honneur at the Milan Triennale in 1951.
Visually, the AX stands out for the fluidity of its lines: its curved armrests seem to naturally emerge from the frame, seamlessly blending with the graceful curve of the backrest, which extends into the seat. While its construction appears deceptively simple, it showcases the mastery of Danish cabinetmaking, striking a perfect balance between strength and lightness. The chair consists of two main frames, each formed by two legs and two shells—a solution that merges elegance with structural rationality.
The design principles of the AX armchair later inspired the creation of the X collection.
Starting price (VAT included): € 1.384,70