Finn Juhl’s Inspiration from Japan The Japan Series – House of Finn Juhl

Japan Sofa by Finn Juhl featuring minimalist wooden frame with horizontal backrest and clean upholstered seating in contemporary setting.

The Japan Series, designed by Finn Juhl in 1957, represents his inspired interpretation of Japanese architectural principles. Its solid horizontal backrest rests on tapered legs, referencing traditional temple doors, while circular recesses add refined detail. Despite its minimalist construction, Juhl maintained his signature separation between carried and carrying elements by using bracket spacers between the backrest and frame. Created during his collaboration with France & Son, this piece combines industrial practicality with 1950s design ideals, available in oak or walnut with textile or leather upholstery options.

 

Japan chair in dark walnut with upholstery creating focal point in mid-century inspired interior with natural materials. Photo: Lars Petter Pettersen
Photo: Lars Petter Pettersen.

Japan Series collection by Finn Juhl including lounge chair, sofa, and footstool showing design consistency across the 1957 line. Japan Sofa displaying the characteristic floating backrest and tapered legs inspired by Japanese temple architecture. Japan Sofa in walnut finish with textile upholstery displayed against neutral backdrop highlighting its architectural proportions. Japan Sofa showing the distinctive circular recess detail where backrest meets frame, highlighting Finn Juhl's craftsmanship.