Museum Wegner

Museum Wegner is dedicated to the internationally renowned furniture designer Hans J. Wegner and is located in southern Denmark near the city of Tønder, where Wegner himself was born and trained as a carpenter. The museum will be situated in and around Hestholm, a historically significant farm dating back to 1445 set in the expansive marshland just outside of town. The existing buildings will be transformed and integrated into the museum, while new structures will be introduced as contemporary interpretations of Hestholm’s rich cultural heritage and Wegner’s sculptural furniture designs.

Wegner created nearly 3,000 pieces of furniture, many of which have been cherished for generations both in Denmark and internationally. Often referred to as the 'Master of the Chair' and known for iconic designs such as the Wishbone Chair, his name has become synonymous with Danish design. Today, nearly 200 of his furniture models remain in production, and interest in his honest approach to design has remained strong for over 70 years.

Hestholm is a historically significant farm situated in the marshland just outside Wegner’s hometown of Tønder in southern Denmark. The farm is integral to a distinctive cultural heritage that extends across the Wadden Sea region, where early settlers established farms and communities on naturally occurring elevated areas within the predominantly flat landscape.

The architecture of Museum Wegner is inspired by Wegner’s design philosophy and commitment to craftsmanship. The architecture is conceived as a spatial expression of his ability to merge the sculptural with the functional, and it will be constructed using his favored material: wood. Hestholm's existing gabled structures, long sloping roofs, and timber construction – as well as its deep connection to the surrounding marsh landscape – have influenced the architecture of the Museum. It includes both a transformation of the original farm buildings and a new extension, all in keeping with local building traditions and cultural heritage. These values closely align with those held by Wegner himself.

Through visible, simple construction, traditional building techniques, and an honest use of materials, the architecture embraces a clear connection between form and function. Just as Wegner intended his furniture to be appreciated as objects in-the-round, the Museum is designed to be experienced as a complete entity – without a defined front or back. Open spatial sequences promote movement, sightlines, and reflection, while integrating the surrounding marsh landscape as a vital part of the visitor experience.

Much like Wegner, who blended iconic, sculptural design with everyday functionality, the museum’s architecture strikes a balance between form and rationality. It is conceived not merely as a building but as an architectural tribute to Wegner – engaged in ongoing dialogue with nature, context, and Wegner’s legacy.