Erik Rasmussen

Erik Rasmussen – Visionary of Scandinavian Design

Danish designer Erik Rasmussen (1930–1984) was convinced that form, as a framework for content, is at the heart of every design. In his work, Rasmussen combined graphic precision with a distinctive sculptural flair. As an in-house graphic designer at Danish furniture manufacturer Paustian, he designed a modular, minimalist sofa in 1969 in which form and fabric speak their own unique language. With its rounded seat and backrest, this striking piece of furniture seamlessly combined function and sculptural design. It became a statement piece for harmonious interior design characterised by aesthetic and tactile simplicity. His design lives on today in the Paradigm sofa by Montana (https://www.smow.com/montana/). The new name refers to the paradigm shift that Rasmussen initiated in interior design in 1969. With its geometric design language, high level of comfort and flexible, modular construction, the sofa became the archetype of modern modular sofas. Montana's current reissue remains true to the original spirit and embodies timeless values such as craftsmanship, flexibility and durability. To this day, Rasmussen's work, with its clarity, creativity and quiet spirit of innovation, is considered a milestone in modern Scandinavian design.