Icons of Mid-Century Design: Henry Walter Klein

Celebrating the visionaries who shaped 20th-century interiors

Henry Walter Klein: Scandinavian Craft Meets Continental Flair

Blending the elegance of Danish modernism with a distinctly international perspective, Henry Walter Klein brought a fresh sensibility to mid-century Scandinavian design. Born in Norway in 1919, Klein began his career in cabinetmaking before studying under the influential Danish designer Finn Juhl at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen. The blend of his Norwegian roots and Danish training gave rise to a unique design language that was refined, functional, and quietly luxurious.

After founding his own furniture company in the 1950s, Klein partnered with Bramin, a respected Danish manufacturer known for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality materials. It was through this collaboration that many of his most enduring pieces were produced, each characterised by clean lines, clever joinery, and subtle details that elevate form without compromising function.

Design with Warmth and Structure

Klein’s work is marked by balance between structure and softness, simplicity and sophistication. His furniture often features rounded edges, sculptural legs, and organic finishes, pieces that feel both modern and deeply welcoming. Klein’s focus remained consistent; to create beautifully made, usable furniture that could enhance everyday living

Teak Sideboard for Bramin

Crafted in Denmark in the 1960s, the teak sideboard by H.W. Klein is a masterclass in proportion and detail. The design combines ample storage with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Its sliding doors and sculpted handles provide both form and function. The rich grain of the teak adds warmth, while the craftsmanship ensures this piece remains as timeless as it is practical. Perfect for anchoring a dining space or living room with quiet confidence.

Teak & Cognac Leather Dining Set for Bramin

This 1960s dining set, designed by Klein for Bramin, pairs solid teak with buttery cognac leather to create a striking and cohesive suite. The chairs feature sculptural curved backs that hug the sitter, offering comfort without excess. The generous oval table, with its streamlined legs and beautifully figured surface, grounds the set in understated luxury. A true collector’s ensemble that invites everyday use while exuding mid-century charm.

A Legacy of Refined Utility

Klein’s designs may not have courted the spotlight like some of his contemporaries, but their appeal lies in their lasting relevance. Each piece reflects a sensitivity to space, material and human use, values that continue to resonate with today’s collectors and design lovers.

Discover more Scandinavian icons in our Kai Kristiansen and Severin Hansen Jr. features.

Explore Midcentury Furniture in London and Beyond

From rare sideboards to sculptural dining sets, our collection of midcentury furniture in London is carefully curated to celebrate the craftsmanship and design integrity of icons like Henry Walter Klein. Get in touch to source a specific piece or browse our full range of original vintage furniture.