Vintage Danish Modern Teak Credenza or sideboard by Niels O. Møller, 1960s

A rare and exceptional Model 20 sideboard in teak, designed by Niels Otto Møller and produced by J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik during the 1960s. This piece showcases the elegance and quality for which Møller is renowned, combining refined proportions with masterful Danish craftsmanship.

 

The sideboard features a richly toned teak top framed by raised lip edges, a subtle yet practical detail. Two book-matched sliding doors with inset pulls carry the grain seamlessly across the façade, opening to reveal a spacious interior fitted with adjustable shelves and four solid teak pull-out drawers. The entire case rests on cigar-shaped legs, creating the highly coveted “floating” effect characteristic of the finest Danish Modern design.

 

With its clean lines, expressive grain, and superb construction, the Model 20 reflects Møller’s signature balance of functionality and artistry. Retaining both its JL Møller maker’s badge and Danish control label, this authentic example is a collector’s piece of enduring value and sophistication, ideally suited to both modern and eclectic interiors.

 

Details:

Designer: Niels O. Møller

Manufacturer: J. L. Møllers Møbelfabrik

Origin: Denmark, 1960s

Material: Teak

Dimensions W.210 D.48 H.80 cm

Authenticity: bearing both the Danish Furniture makers Control and J.L. Møller manufacturer’s marks.

Condition:

Presented in beautifully restored vintage condition, this example displays a rich and even teak tone with a refined, satin finish consistent with high-quality Danish craftsmanship. The sliding doors operate smoothly along the track, and the cabinet stands sturdy on its original tapered solid-teak legs.

The interior has been professionally reconstructed as close as possible to the original specification. The missing shelves have been remade in high-quality plywood with a beautifully grained veneer, while the sliding trays have been expertly remade in solid teak to match the original factory layout and proportions.

These elements integrate seamlessly with the piece and greatly enhance its functionality, while remaining faithful to the original design intent. Minor, expected signs of age and use remain on select surfaces, all discreet and entirely in keeping with the sideboard’s vintage authenticity. No structural issues are present. 

A few historic impact marks on the top have been filled and carefully restored; they remain faintly visible but do not detract from the overall appearance. Additional photos are available on request.

 

Overall, the credenza presents beautifully, remaining structurally sound, elegant, and highly collectible. A superb and increasingly scarce example of the Model 20, ready to be placed and enjoyed. 

 

 

Niels O. Møller (1920–1982)

Danish Master of Modern Craftsmanship

Niels O. Møller was a Danish furniture designer celebrated for his uncompromising commitment to craftsmanship and material quality. Trained as a cabinetmaker, Møller founded J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik in 1944 in Aarhus, Denmark, where he combined traditional woodworking techniques with the refined principles of modern Scandinavian design.

Møller’s work is distinguished by its elegant simplicity, organic lines, and meticulous joinery. He insisted that only the finest materials be used — from select cuts of teak, rosewood, and oak to premium leathers and woven seats — ensuring every piece achieved a balance of beauty, comfort, and durability.

Although best known for his iconic dining chairs (notably Models 71, 75, 77, 78, and the widely celebrated Model 82), Møller also produced a limited range of sideboards, credenzas, and tables. These larger case pieces, such as the example offered here, are rare and sought after for their restrained elegance and the same impeccable attention to detail that defines his seating designs.

The company carried the prestigious Danish Furniture makers’ Quality Control mark, a guarantee of superior craftsmanship, and remains a benchmark in the history of mid-century Danish design. Today, Niels O. Møller’s furniture is highly collectible, valued not only for its timeless aesthetic but also for its enduring testament to Denmark’s golden age of furniture making.

 

 

As with many quality Mid-Century pieces, this design thoughtfully pairs solid wood construction with a premium wood veneer—an approach widely used at the time to highlight beautiful grain patterns while ensuring lasting stability.

 

We try to capture the condition of our items in our photographs as best as possible. Prior to dispatch all items are carefully cleaned and re-coated with danish oil to ensure your item is looking its best when delivered.