Janteloven & Design Culture
Janteloven — The Law of Modesty
The Janteloven (the Jante Law) is an informal code of conduct that permeates Danish (and Scandinavian) society: "You shall not believe that you are anything special." Formulated in 1933 by the writer Aksel Sandemose, it describes the social norm of not boasting, not showing off, not putting oneself above others.
In practice, this means: Danes are friendly but not intrusive. They do not flaunt wealth. Even the CEO rides a bike to work. Small talk is reserved. It can be perceived as cold — but it is an expression of respect and equality.
Danish Design
Danish design has influenced the world like few other national design traditions. The principle: function, beauty, sustainability — in that order. The big names:
- Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971) — The Egg Chair, the Swan Chair, the SAS Royal Hotel (now Radisson Collection, each room still with original design). Jacobsen designed everything: buildings, furniture, cutlery, faucets.
- Finn Juhl (1912–1989) — The master of organic forms. His Chieftains Chair is in the UN building in New York.
- Hans Wegner (1914–2007) — The "Master of Chairs". The Wishbone Chair is his most famous work — over 500 different chair designs in his lifetime.
- Poul Henningsen (1894–1967) — The PH lamps are design icons: glare-free, warm, sculptural. Almost every Danish living room has a PH lamp (or a copy).
- HAY (founded 2002) — The new generation: colorful, affordable furniture and accessories. HAY House at Amagertorv is a must.
