Jens Risom: a seat at the table

Abstract

Jens Risom was one of the first designers to introduce Scandinavian design to the United States. In 1942, Risom's designs formed the majority of the inaugural collection of original furniture for the iconic Hans Knoll Furniture Company, and many of his pieces are still in production today by manufacturers including Knoll, Design Within Reach, De Padova, Camira, and Ralph Pucci. This biography of Risom spans his education in Denmark, early collaborations with Georg Jensen and Hans Knoll, the creation of his own company - Jens Risom Design - his prefab house on Block Island, RI, as well as his legacy and presence in the 21st century.