pk22 chair
Balancing industrial precision with natural materials, the PK22 reflects Kjærholm’s belief that steel deserved the same artistic respect traditionally given to wood. Its low, open profile and sculptural simplicity give the chair a calm presence, making it equally suited to living spaces, lounge settings and quiet architectural interiors.
More than seventy years after its introduction, the PK22 remains an enduring benchmark of modern furniture design.
What is the history of the PK22 chair?
The PK22 chair was designed by Poul Kjærholm in 1956 and quickly became both a commercial and critical success. The chair evolved from Kjærholm’s earlier PK25 graduation project, also known as the “Element” chair, which he created at the Danish School of Arts and Crafts in 1952.
For the PK22, Kjærholm refined the continuous steel structure used in the PK25, dividing the frame into repeating elements while maintaining the same sculptural clarity. The result was a chair that felt lighter, more resolved and more practical in construction, while still expressing the same architectural purity.
The chair received international recognition when it won the Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale in 1957, cementing its position as a landmark of Danish modernism.Originally conceived alongside the PK61™ coffee table for Kjærholm’s own home, the PK22 has remained in continuous production and continues to represent his vision of timeless, material-led design.
the design
The design is made up of simple strips of steel, the legs are fastened to the frame beneth the seat with machine screws called 'allen' or unbrako' screws. These were industrial components, Kjærholm saw in them the potntial to be able to join the simple strips of stell in tghe same way woodwoorkers would use joints to create strong bonds in wooden furniture.
A discreet satin-brushed stainless steel frame supports the suspended seat and back, creating a clean visual tension between structure and softness. Every element is reduced to its essential form, reflecting Kjærholm’s search for the ideal proportion and dimension.
The chair’s profile feels both sculptural and restrained, embodying the clarity and calm that define much of Scandinavian modernism. Despite being designed in 1956, the PK22 remains fundamentally modern today.
how are they made?
In the leather and canvas versions, the seat and back are supported by a laced canvas underlayer, while the outer material is folded around the frame and secured with hidden buttons for a clean, uninterrupted appearance.
The wicker version uses woven rattan core strands wrapped directly around the frame, allowing the material itself to provide both structure and surface. Each chair is manufactured in Denmark and designed for longevity, with components that can be disassembled and recycled where required.
In 1955, he began a lifelong collaboration with manufacturer Ejvind Kold Christensen, producing many of the designs that would later become icons of Danish furniture design. Following Kjærholm’s death in 1980, Fritz Hansen took over production of The Kjærholm Collection in 1982.
Kjærholm’s furniture introduced a new perspective to modern design, combining industrial materials with exceptional craftsmanship to create pieces that feel calm, architectural and enduring.
Discover more in our journal about Poul Kjærholm's modernist villa in Rungsted. More than simply a home, it stands as a complete embodiment of Poul Kjærholm’s design philosophy a place where furniture, material and space exist in perfect harmony.
what are the choices of PK22 chair?
leather
Leather versions of the PK22 emphasise the chair’s refined and architectural qualities. The suspended seat creates a soft contrast against the brushed steel frame, while the natural texture of the leather adds warmth and depth.The chair is available in a range of leather finishes including Aura, Grace, Haze and Natural leather.
discover the pk22 chair in leather
canvas
Canvas versions highlight the chair’s lighter and more utilitarian expression. The material gives the PK22 a relaxed simplicity while maintaining the same sculptural clarity and comfort.
discover the pk22 chair in canvas
wicker
The wicker version introduces a more tactile and organic feel. Woven from rattan core strands directly around the frame, it brings texture and craftsmanship to the design while maintaining the chair’s light and minimal silhouette. Poul was interested in the inherent strength of wicker as a natural material. Wicker also ages beautifully taking on a patinated finish over time.
discover the pk22 chair in wicker
real or fake?
As one of the most recognisable lounge chairs in Danish modern design, the PK22 chair has been widely replicated over the years. While many copies imitate the silhouette, they rarely capture the precision, balance and material quality of the original.
Authentic PK22 chairs are produced by Fritz Hansen as part of The Kjærholm Collection. Originals are distinguished by their satin-brushed stainless spring steel frame, carefully engineered proportions and highly resolved construction details.
The relationship between the thin steel frame and the suspended seat is central to the chair’s design. Replicas often appear heavier, less refined or incorrectly proportioned, losing the sense of lightness that defines the original.
Material quality is another important distinction. Genuine models use carefully selected leather, canvas or wicker alongside precision-engineered steel components designed for longevity and structural integrity.
An original PK22 reflects Poul Kjærholm’s exacting approach to furniture design where every line, joint and material choice serves both function and expression.
the pk61 coffee table
Originally designed as a companion piece to the PK22™ lounge chair, the PK61™ coffee table reflects the same refined approach to proportion, structure and material honesty that defines much of Poul Kjærholm’s work.
Designed in 1956, the table reduces furniture to its essential elements, with four brushed steel components supporting a square tabletop available in marble, granite or glass.
Like the PK22, the PK61 balances precision with simplicity. Its low, open profile brings calm structure to a space, while the exposed construction reflects Kjærholm’s belief that materials should be expressed honestly rather than concealed. The result is a piece that feels architectural yet understated designed not to dominate a room, but to quietly shape it over time.
Explore the PK61™ coffee table by Poul Kjærholm
FAQS
the pk22 chair
When was the PK22 chair designed?
The PK22 was designed by Poul Kjærholm in 1956.
Who manufactures the PK22?
The chair is produced by Fritz Hansen as part of The Kjærholm Collection.
What materials is the PK22 made from?
The chair combines a satin-brushed stainless spring steel frame with seating in leather, canvas or wicker.
What inspired the PK22?
The design evolved from Kjærholm’s earlier PK25™ graduation project from 1952.
Did the PK22 win any awards?
Yes. It won the Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale in 1957.
Why is the PK22 considered iconic?
Its minimalist form, refined proportions and innovative use of steel made it a defining piece of Danish modernism.
Is the PK22 comfortable?
Yes. Despite its minimal appearance, the suspended seat construction creates a supportive and comfortable seating experience.
Where is the PK22 typically used?
The chair is commonly used in living rooms, lounge spaces, architectural interiors and quiet retreat settings.
What is the difference between the leather, canvas and wicker versions?
Each material changes the character of the chair while maintaining the same structure and proportions. Leather feels refined and architectural, canvas offers a lighter expression, and wicker introduces texture and warmth.
Is the PK22 still in production?
Yes. The chair remains in production through Fritz Hansen.
How can you identify an authentic PK22?
Authentic examples are produced by Fritz Hansen and feature precise construction, satin-brushed spring steel and carefully resolved material detailing.
Why is steel important in Poul Kjærholm’s work?
Kjærholm viewed steel as a material deserving the same artistic respect traditionally given to wood, using it to create furniture with clarity, precision and structural honesty.
