One of the most significant architects in Denmark’s history and a pioneer of Danish functionalism in Scandinavian, mid-century modern furniture, Vilhelm Lauritzen maintained a lifelong belief that design is an art for the people.
Born in the town of Slagelse in 1894, Lauritzen had an early interest in architecture and design. He graduated from the Sorø Akademi in 1912 and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in 1922. That year, Lauritzen founded the Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects studio.
Travel to Spain, Greece and throughout Central Europe influenced his architectural work. His first major project was in 1928, when he designed the Daell’s Department Store in Copenhagen. Subsequent notable design projects included the Nørrebro Theater in 1931, the Radiohuset building in 1936 and Copenhagen Airport’s first terminal in 1939, inspired by Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier.
Although architecture was among Lauritzen’s chief passions — he was also an avid lepidopterist — he was keenly interested in the furnishings of his projects, designing everything from chairs and settees to door handles and ashtrays. His influential creations include the iconic VL 38 “Radiohus” table and the VL 45 “Radiohus” pendant light — a powerful downward light that provides a gentle illumination through handblown, white opal glass. Both were designed for Danish furniture manufacturer Louis Poulsen in collaboration with Danish designer Finn Juhl. Vilhelm Lauritzen’s lamps and wall sconces, which have obliquely angled lamp heads, were likewise designed in partnership with Poulsen for the Radiohuset building in the 1930s.
Lauritzen remained active in his studio until 1969, overseeing numerous architecture projects in the 1950s, such as the Shellhuset building, Folkets Hus — known today as the VEGA concert hall — and the Danish Embassy in Washington, DC.
Lauritzen died in 1984. His legacy lives on with Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects still operating in Copenhagen’s Nordhavn district, and his elegant lamps remain in production by Louis Poulsen.
On 1stDibs, discover a range of vintage Vilhelm Lauritzen lighting, seating, tables and more.
Vilhelm Lauritzen VLA62 'Radio House' Oak Wood Mirror for Carl Hansen & Son
By Carl Hansen & Søn, Vilhelm Lauritzen
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vilhelm Lauritzen VLA62 'Radio House' Oak Wood Mirror for Carl Hansen & Son The story of Danish Modern begins in 1908 when Carl Hansen opened his first workshop. His firm commit...
Mirror, Wood, Oak
Vilhelm Lauritzen Wall Mirror in Mahogany, 1930s, Danish Modern
By Vilhelm Lauritzen
Located in Odense, DK
Rare wall mirror designed by Danish architect Vilhelm Lauritzen and executed in selected solid mahogany with a beautiful grain. Classic 1930 functionalism and superior craftsmanship ...
Mirror, Mahogany
Mid-Century French Wall Mirror In Gilt Wood Frame, 1930s
Located in Palermo, IT
Mid-Century French wall mirror in gilt wood frame, 1930s The mirror has a patina of age and the frame has some cracks. Overall in good condition. Very fascinating and rare object.
Mirror, Wood
Minimalist Danish Teak Wood Mirror
Located in San Francisco, US
This stunning 46” mirror features a warm wooden frame crafted from Danish teak wood. Perfectly proportioned with clean lines and expert craftsmanship, this versatile piece can be ele...
Wood, Teak
Large Louis Philippe Silver Gilt Mirror (H 62 3/4 x W 37 1/4)
Located in Austin, TX
A fine tall Louis Philippe wall or dressing console mirror from France, featuring a moulded surround with a beautiful patinated silver-leaf. Dimens...
Silver Leaf
$743Sale Price|28% Off
H 49.61 in W 30.32 in D 4.73 in
Floor Mirror in Oak Wood Frame, Early 20th Century
Located in Opole, PL
Floor Mirror in Oak Wood Frame, Early 20th Century This exquisite vintage floor mirror is a true gem from the early 20th century, crafted from solid oak wood. Its elegant design fea...
Mirror, Oak, Wood
Spaulding Mirror by Croft House
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Spaulding Mirror is Custom Made in Los Angeles. Solid walnut boards are sized and joined. Mirror cut to size. WALNUT + MIRROR HARDWAX OIL FINISH PERSONALIZE THIS PIECE For all f...
Walnut
Italian Designer, Wall Mirror, Wood, Italy, 1930s
Located in High Point, NC
A carved wooden wall mirror designed and produced in Italy, c. 1930s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 42.25"H x 23.37"W x 1.25"D Does not incl...
Mirror, Wood
Scandinavian Modern Wall Mirror, Stjärnmetall ca 1930s
Located in Örebro, SE
Rare and absolutely beautiful Scandinavian Modern wall mirror by Stjärnmetall, ca 1930s. Frame depicting music playing and dancing figures. Original foxed mirror. Wear and patina co...
Metal
Italian Designer, Wall Mirror, Brass, Italy, 1930s
Located in High Point, NC
A brass wall mirror designed and produced in Italy, 1930s.
Brass
Danish Modern Beveled Edge Teak Wall Mirror
Located in Berkeley, CA
This Danish modern midcentury teak framed wall mirror is the perfect accessory for any modern entryway. A solid teak frame is showcased by a beveled edge. In excellent original condi...
Mirror, Teak
$2,161
H 20.08 in W 14.57 in D 0.71 in
Nordic Classicism Pewter Wall Mirror, Taidetakomo A. Hakkarainen 1930s
By Antti Hakkarainen
Located in Helsinki, FI
An elegant pewter-framed mirror produced by Taidetakomo Antti Hakkarainen in Finland during the 1920-30s. The design reflects the transitional period between Nordic Classicism and th...
Pewter
$6,895
H 62.25 in W 36.5 in D 3 in
Biedermeier Style Pier Mirror of Cherry from France (H 62 1/4 x W 36 1/2)
Located in Austin, TX
A tall elegant French pier mirror from the 19th century in the Biedermeier style featuring a beautiful frame of cherry wood with a mellow, rich patina. Perfect as a wall or hall mirr...
Glass, Mirror, Wood, Cherry
Cheval Floor Mirror by Pedersen & Hansen, Denmark, 1970s
Located in Nørre Aaby, DK
Danish adjustable tilt floor mirror produced by Pedersen & Hansen for Viby J in the 1970s. Crafted in beech, the mirror is held in position by turned teak knobs that allow the angle ...
Mirror, Beech