Kai finished his furniture maker apprenticeship in 1948 and two years later he was accepted into the Academy of Fine Arts where he studied furniture design under Kaare Klint.
In the mid 1950’s he opened his own design office and began working alongside Schou Andersen Møbelfabrik; famous for the popular #42 dining chair which is still sought after for not only it’s beautiful looks, but it’s comfort. It has become one of the most iconic Danish modern pieces of furniture.
Throughout his career Kai has been associated with some of the best known Scandinavian manufacturers in the production of his fabulous designs; the likes of Kjærsgaard, Fritz Hansen, Tarm og Feldballes, Magnus Olesen, Fritz Hansen, Axel Kjærsgaard, and Heltborgto, name a few.
From 1956 to 1965 Kai was responsible for organizing a regional Furniture Fair, and from 1966 to 1970 he was the driving force behind the renowned Scandinavian Furniture Fair.
As a designer he created Danish mid-century furniture for all walks of life; from tables, writing desks and sideboards, to chairs, tv stands and bar cabinets. Most pieces were manufactured in teak or rosewood.
Kai Kristiansen Reolysystem
One of Kai Kristiansen’s most famous designs is the FM Reolsystem, a shelving system which was designed to offer maximum flexibility with endless possibilities to combine wall mounted shelves and cabinets to fit any wall in any home. Widely popular not only Scandinavia but also throughout North America and the rest of Europe for it’s flexiblility and design; the simple use of metal bars which fix to the wall, and use of desirable wood, completes an amazing yet practical look.
The use of straight clean lines and quality wood finish is simply gorgeous.
This fabulous shelving system and others are available to purchase from RE:SOURCE Vintage, you can find more photos and info here.
Teak File Storage
Tapley Cherrywood
Staples Ladderax
