’Sustainability’. ‘Socially Responsible Buying’.’Circular Economy’.
We often hear these terms, and fortunately there is growing focus on concrete change - the furniture industry included.
The report ’Circular economy in the Danish furniture industry' published by Lifestyle & Design Cluster in collaboration with Copenhagen Design Agency concludes that in the coming years, this focus will become an increasingly competitive parameter for Danish furniture companies.
It is therefore no longer 'merely' about using FSC certified wood in production. It is more than that - it’s also about pervasive environmentally-friendly production, local production pertaining to the climate impact of transport, long-lasting designs and, last but not least, recycling ...
Recycling is KLASSIK's foundation. The world certainly does not need even more poor quality furniture produced to satisfy the buy, use and throw away motto. It is our philosophy that if you buy less but always good quality, it proves to be an economical and - not least -aesthetic advantage.
Danish design classics - made to last
It is said that the average age of a piece of furniture is only 8 years. We suspect that Danish furniture classics improve this ratio tremendously ;-)
Old classics are primarily made of high quality wood, which is why it’s usually only the cover or the foam padding that wears through time. Unlike some of today's furniture, older furniture is built to be dismantled and reassembled. Therefore, the covering can easily be replaced and reupholstered, giving the furniture lease to a new and beautiful long life.
In addition, much of Kvadrat's original upholstery range can still be obtained to this day (e.g. the iconic Hestedækken Wool used on Børge Mogensen's BM 1789 shown below). In this way, the historical authenticity can be preserved if so wished.
Of course, upholstery does cost, but can be justified. Especially if you look at it from an eco-friendly point of view.
Unique, architect designed furniture keeps its value
An architect-designed classic can undoubtedly be costly. This is one of the reasons why the piece has so often been especially taken care of over time. Their timeless designs make the furniture as relevant to this day, and help keep their value.
Additionally, some of the original classics are produced from types of wood that are extremely rare today and in some cases even extinct. Thus, they cannot be obtained again. Ever.
Which is yet another good reason to cherish, care for, and continue to appreciate these unique pieces. It pays off for the environment and for future generations to come. This approach can also often prove to be a really good investment.
A great example is this Finn Juhl sofa. 10 years ago the price was around 65.000DKK. Two years ago, we sold it for 125.000DKK - and today it is back in our Showroom for 210.000DKK.
Saving both your wallet and the environment
Because these designs are so very timeless, a selection of original models have been relaunched and produced to this day. In KLASSIK we have many such examples of furniture that may be over 50 years old, but with new upholstery and a little gentle professional restoration, appear as new. It is practically impossible to discern the difference between them and a newly produced model. Except the price. So, by investing in a recycled classic, it's not just the environment you are taking into consideration, but just as importantly, your purse string.
TIPS
- With regular care and maintenance, our designer furniture can last for many generations to come. See how best to maintain leather here.
- Do you have a piece of furniture that could need a new lease of life? Get a non-binding offer for upholstery by filling out this form.
- There is often a lot to save by buying a recycled classic - even a 30-50% return on newly-produced model prices. To see a selection of classics, click here