CH53 footstool by Hans J. Wegner celebrates its 70th anniversary

Hans J. Wegner designed the CH53 footstool in 1956 – a piece that quietly embodies his devotion to craftsmanship, everyday functionality and the beauty of honest materials.

In 2026, this understated classic celebrates its 70th anniversary.

CH53 oak whiteoil papercord natural

Throughout his career, Hans J. Wegner explored how simple forms could reveal the essence of good design. The CH53 Footstool is a clear expression of this philosophy: modest at first glance yet masterfully balanced in proportion and materiality.

Crafted from solid wood with a hand‑woven paper cord seat, the CH53 was originally created as a companion to the CH44 Lounge Chair. While the two pieces share the same design language – a light, graceful frame and a tactile, enveloping seat – the CH53 has long proven itself as an independent, versatile object suited to homes and spaces of all kinds.

The footstool is available in two heights, and both sizes serve effortlessly in hallways, bedrooms, kitchens or anywhere a touch of refined simplicity is needed.

Woven in an intricate envelope pattern, the paper cord seat takes a skilled craftsperson more than one hour to complete. The result is a seat that is both supportive and durable. The solid-wood frame highlights Wegner’s sculptural approach to joinery – discreet, carefully resolved details that elevate a seemingly humble piece.

For 70 years, the CH53 has remained a testament to the enduring values of Danish craftsmanship. Today, the footstool is still crafted in Denmark by skilled artisans at Carl Hansen & Søn’s workshop on the Island of Funen, where traditional methods are continually refined through generations of expertise.

CH53 oak whiteoil papercord natural frames
PRODUCT INFO
CH53 footstool
Dimensions (cm)
Seat height 39/43, depth 38, width 50
Materials
FSC®-certificated oak or beech (FSC C135991), black or natural paper cord