Description
A rare and elegant mid-century Norwegian teak planter bench by Bruksbo, attributed to Torbjørn Afdal, produced in the 1960s by Mellemstrands Trevareindustri A/S and bearing original manufacturer’s labels.
Torbjørn Afdal (1917–1999) was one of Norway’s most influential mid-century designers and served as a key creative force behind many of Bruksbo’s most celebrated designs. Known for his refined proportions, sculptural restraint, and sensitivity to material, Afdal’s work helped define the international reputation of Norwegian modern furniture during the postwar period. This planter bench reflects many of the hallmarks associated with his design language, including architectural clarity, functional elegance, and a seamless integration of form and purpose.
79″ Long x 14.5″ Wide x 13.5″ High
Planter box: 23.5″ Long x 13.5″ Wide x 5″ High
Founded in Norway in the postwar period, Bruksbo became known internationally during the 1950s and 1960s for its high-quality modern furniture that balanced clean architectural lines with exceptional craftsmanship. Working with leading Scandinavian workshops such as Mellemstrands Trevareindustri A/S, Bruksbo produced designs that emphasized honest materials, refined proportions, and enduring functionality. While many Bruksbo pieces were exported throughout Europe and North America, large-scale planter benches such as this example remain comparatively rare.
This sculptural, low-slung bench combines a long, floating teak seat with an integrated original planter insert, executed in black-lined metal and designed to introduce greenery directly into the architectural composition of the room. The form is both functional and architectural, equally compelling as seating, display, or a spatial divider.
The bench has been professionally restored, with the teak carefully refreshed to enhance the depth and warmth of the grain while preserving its period character. The planter insert is original and intact. Only minor, light surface scratches remain, consistent with gentle use over the decades and appropriate for a piece of this age.
Purchased directly from the original owner, this bench benefits from exceptional provenance and remains accompanied by its original purchase receipt, issued at the time of first sale by Jensen & Hansen Inc., Scandinavian Furniture, Coral Gables, Florida, dated February 1, 1982. Such documentation is rare and provides valuable confirmation of authenticity, history, and continuous ownership.
Condition:
The table is light on one end, then dark in the center where the planter box used to sit (oxidation contrast). The planter box is in very good condition with some wear on inside (black liner portion). The coffee table has some scratches along the edges & some dark marks in the wood on one side. Scratches on coffee table top that may only be visible in certain lighting
