Vintage Scandinavian Cabinet by Carl-Axel Acking for Nordiska Kompaniet

This elegant cabinet, made by Nordiska Kompaniet in the 1940s-50s, embodies the distinctive quality and refinement of Carl-Axel Acking's designs. Constructed from rich elm and birch, its craftsmanship is evident in every detail. The cabinet features two doors above dual drawers, opening to reveal a thoughtfully designed interior with adjustable shelves and additional drawers for flexible storage.

The warm hues and natural patina of the wood evoke the timeless appeal of Scandinavian design—known for its restrained elegance and harmonious blend of form and function. Its focus is on simple lines and light spaces. This versatile cabinet complements minimalist spaces while adding an understated sophistication.

 

Designer:
Carl-Axel Acking

Producer:
Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden

Year:

1940’s/50’s

Dimensions:
118.5W x 44.5D x 133.5H (cm)

Condition:

Remarkably well-preserved given its age, showing only subtle signs of wear, as detailed in the accompanying photos. Overall, it is in good vintage condition, with a few light marks that do not detract from its overall appeal. We have carefully refurbished and refinished this piece to preserve the heritage. There are some imperfections:  a mark on the top corner (see last photo) -  an old burn mark on the veneer that was carefully cut out and replaced.

 

Comes with a key.

 

 

Carl-Axel Acking (1910-2001)

 

Carl-Axel Acking stands among the most influential Swedish architects and designers of the 1930s through the 1950s. His work, spanning furniture and lighting, was produced by esteemed manufacturers such as Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, Kooperativa Förbundet in Stockholm, and Bröderna Malmströms Metallvarufabrik in Malmö, along with several renowned cabinetmakers through the Stockholm Crafts Association. During the 1940s and 50s, Acking played a pivotal role within Nordiska Kompaniet’s furniture department, where he designed the iconic "Trienna" chair.

Acking's career gained early acclaim at the 1937 World Exhibition in Paris, leading to numerous prestigious commissions in the years that followed. As a prominent figure in Swedish design, he was also one of the lead architects behind the celebrated H55 exhibition in Helsingborg in 1955, cementing his legacy within Swedish architecture and design.

 

Read more here

 

Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden

Since its founding, Nordiska Kompaniet—endearingly known as "NK"—has been a powerful platform for pioneering furniture designers. Its celebrated department stores in Stockholm and Gothenburg have featured the work of renowned mid-century modern and Scandinavian designers, establishing NK as a benchmark for quality and innovation. Founded in 1902 through the merger of K.M. Lundberg and Joseph Leja, NK was brought to life by Josef Sachs, who envisioned it as a cultural institution to rival Paris's luxury stores. This vision materialized in 1915 with the opening of its iconic Stockholm flagship.

NK's commitment to excellence in furniture design became evident early on, with Axel Einar Hjorth, a master cabinetmaker, leading its production from 1927 to 1938. A defining moment for NK and Scandinavian modernism came with the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition, where architect Sven Markelius's installation for NK showcased Swedish functionalism on an international stage.

Over the decades, NK collaborated with eminent designers such as Carl Bergsten, David Rosen, and Gio Ponti, producing iconic pieces—sofas, lounge chairs, bookcases, and dining tables—that have left an indelible mark on mid-century modern design. To this day, NK remains dedicated to championing progressive design and craftsmanship.

 

Read more here

 

 

Like many Mid-Century pieces, it harmoniously combines sturdy solid wood with a top-grade wood veneer.

 

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.

 

Restoration Process:

In our studio workshop, every item undergoes a meticulous inspection and careful restoration process. We prioritize maintaining the original charm and patina of the piece, while also making it a beautiful addition to modern interiors.

 

Our Approach Includes:

• Examining and reinforcing the joints
• Cleaning the wood and removing any stains
• Conducting veneer repairs as necessary
• Polishing or refinishing surfaces to enhance their appearance

Prices do not include delivery.

 

Cape Town delivery is calculated at check-out.

 

For delivery outside Cape Town please contact us. Delivery to these areas is quoted based on the item's dimensions. We can unfortunately not reserve any items until transport has been finalized.

 

We can arrange shipping in Cape Town and arrange or recommend courier for the rest of the country. 

For larger items, we work with an external service that can handle your delivery. Delivery is made by appointment and we make every effort to give you a 2-hour time window on the date of delivery.

​Please note that most shippers deliver alone so you may be expected to help on one end in bringing your piece inside. Please be aware that additional charges may apply in cases of access challenges, such as stairs, etc.

Contact us to arrange to view, discuss collection or if you have any queries.

 

We deliver locally within Cape Town for a fee and can accommodate collection by courier or in person.  Collections must be made within 7 days of purchase as we cannot hold furniture for extended periods. 

 

For local Cape Town deliveries: We provide a complimentary layer of bubble wrap in our packaging. However, for a more thorough and secure wrapping approach to guarantee the safe arrival of your item, we suggest opting for our comprehensive packaging solution. This solution encompasses multiple layers of bubble wrap, cardboard and foam as needed, and pallet wrap. There is an additional charge of R150-350, depending on the size of the item, to cover the cost of this enhanced service and materials. To arrange for this option, kindly get in touch with us via email: vintageclubhq@gmail.com

 

 

Please refer to our Shipping Policy

 

As to be expected with vintage items, this item may have minor amounts of wear. All of our items are available to view prior to purchase.

Although all effort is made to lightly refurbish and clean our furniture to best represent their original state, it must be noted that the majority of the items we source date from before 1980’s. For this reason signs of their vintage condition & age might still be visible. We try to point out any visible concerns. 

Please note that all items are described to the best of our ability, we strongly encourage our clients to closely inspect item photos, descriptions, and details before purchasing anything. Please review all images as they are considered part of the item description. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. 

 

VINTAGE CONDITIONS:

excellent - Like new, exhibiting minimal to no indications of wear, with scarcely any visible signs of age or use.
very good - Light use marks and signs of age, such as minor scratches and minimal wear on areas like feet or inconspicuous spots on veneer or leather.
good - Displays light to moderate scratches, with some more noticeable blemishes. May have small damages and stains, and the possibility of ring marks. Leather may exhibit small rips. 
fair - Exhibits more pronounced scratches, including lighter ones in many prominent areas (e.g., the top of a sideboard). Leather may show tears and stress marks

Unfortunately we currently only deliver in Cape Town area, but you are welcome to arrange courier on your side, we can also arrange on your behalf. 

Shipment outside of Cape Town is NOT calculated at check-out and is quoted based on the item's dimensions and or weight.

Unfortunately we can not reserve any items until shipping has been finalized (the item should be purchased and checked out, with payment confirmation received if paid via EFT).

After purchase, we can assist you with costs from our preferred supplier. 

Please note that all items shipped outside of Cape Town are wrapped extensively, we charge a small packaging fee depending on the item, starting cost of R150 per individual item. The cost of wrapping depends on the size of the item. For ALL our items, especially fragile items, i.e. glass and mirrors we recommend professional crating.

 

For fragile items or items that have glass elements we don't recommend shipment and transport outside of Cape Town. 

 

Please refer to our Shipping Policy

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