Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen Chair 316, 1950s

At Caning Canada, we take immense pride in our commitment to quality craftsmanship and timeless design. One of the gems in our weaving portfolio is the legendary Chair 316, designed by the renowned Danish designer Peter Hvidt. Today, we’re excited to delve into the design history of this iconic chair and share some important updates about our weaving options.

The Visionary Behind Chair 316: Peter Hvidt

Peter Hvidt (1916-1986) was a pivotal figure in the world of Danish design. His work is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a deep appreciation for natural materials. Hvidt studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills and developed a unique design philosophy that would later influence the mid-century modern movement.

In the 1950s, Hvidt collaborated with his partner, Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, to create furniture pieces that combined elegance with practicality. The duo’s works were often defined by clean lines, organic shapes, and a seamless blend of craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. Among their most celebrated creations is the Chair 316, a piece that embodies the essence of Hvidt's design ethos.

The Timeless Appeal of Chair 316

Introduced in the early 1950s, Chair 316 is an exceptional example of Hvidt's ability to merge beauty with comfort. Its sleek form and inviting contours make it a centerpiece in any room. The chair features a minimalist frame, elegantly crafted from solid wood, which is paired with a beautifully woven seat.

Originally, the chair was offered with an envelope weave, we have made the decision to discontinue the envelope weave option for Chair 316.

New Weaving Options: Seagrass in Basket Weave

While we no longer offer the envelope weave for Chair 316, we however are thrilled to introduce a new weaving option: seagrass in a basket weave. This beautiful alternative not only maintains the chair's elegant silhouette but also provides a visually appealing texture that harmonizes with the natural wood frame.

Embrace Timeless Design with Caning Canada

At Caning Canada, we remain dedicated to honoring the legacy of great designers like Peter Hvidt while providing options for renewing within our wheelhouse. By offering the Chair 316 in seagrass with a basket weave, we ensure that this iconic piece continues to resonate with contemporary tastes while celebrating its rich design heritage.