KufenKarl

A Classic Reimagined: Elegance, Versatility, and Choice

KufenKarl

Honoring the Legacy of the 1950s Kufenstuhl

A Timeless Classic with a Modern Twist

The story of KufenKarl begins in post-war Germany, where the original ‘Kufenstuhl’ was crafted to redefine school seating. Designed to be sturdy, ergonomic, and affordable, it became an iconic piece, with over six million units produced by the 1990s.

'The original Kufenstuhl was a symbol of resilience and community. It’s what drew me to bring this design into a contemporary context.’ Magnus Breitling recalls.

‘Its durability, simplicity, and timeless charm left a lasting impression, inspiring the KufenKarl collection.’ This reimagined classic takes everything great about the original and brings it to life in today’s homes.

'heraus aus der Schule, hinein ins Leben'

Minimalist Kufenkarl 2-position office chair and table, designed for versatility in home, office, dining, and lounge settings.

From Dining Rooms to Lounges, Offices, and More

Versatility for Every Lifestyle

The KufenKarl collection offers a variety of seating options, including standard, lounge, counter, rocking lounge, and a two-position study chair. Each piece adapts seamlessly to a variety of environments.

‘This is the beauty of the Kufenstuhl legacy - it fits anywhere,’ Boris adds. ‘By offering a range, we ensure it meets the needs of both private and public spaces.’‘It’s rare to find a design as democratic as the Kufenstuhl. Our goal was to elevate it with modern usability while honoring its heritage.’

KufenKarl oak components, designed for strength, beauty, and lasting durability with seamless joinery for enhanced stability.

Crafted Sustainably for Generations

Design with a Purpose

Inspired by Scandinavian design principles, KufenKarl uses sustainably sourced oak and walnut, with craftsmanship that celebrates durability and timeless elegance. Each piece is manufactured without dowels, instead relying on precise machine work to ensure easy assembly and lasting quality.
‘The construction method is as much about sustainability as it is about convenience,’ Boris explains. ‘We wanted this collection to represent thoughtful design for a better future.’

Flat-Pack or Fully Assembled—The Choice is Yours

Convenience Meets Quality

One of the standout features of the KufenKarl collection is its dual offering: choose fully assembled pieces for instant enjoyment or flat-pack versions for easy shipping and assembly.
‘The flat-pack option opens up this design to a global audience, making it easier to share such a classic piece,’ Boris Berlin remarks.

KufenKarl dining table paired with colorful KufenKarl chairs in a contemporary setting. Crafted from solid oak, designed for durability and modern versatility.

KufenKarl lounge chair in natural oak, showcasing its ergonomic design and seamless joinery. Set against an artistic backdrop @ Galleri MollerWitt, CPH

KufenKarl dining setup featuring natural oak and painted chairs in a contemporary setting. A balance of function, comfort, and style.

Design board of Boris Berlin, showcasing the development of the KufenKarl chair. Presented at Galleri Møller Witt, Copenhagen, featuring historical references and design sketches.

KufenKarl seating collection showcasing the flat ship, knock-down chair. Designed for versatility in contemporary spaces.

Detailed view of the KufenKarl Tip-forward - 2 position chair’s stable wooden base, designed with precision joinery for enhanced strength and durability.

KufenKarl table in natural oak, elegantly styled with minimalistic tableware. A sustainable and functional centerpiece for dining and workspaces.

Boris Berlin

Designer Dd/Partner Boris Berlin Design KOMPLOT Design & ISKOS-BERLIN Design Member of Danish Design CouncilCopenhagen, Denmark

Boris began his career in 1975 as an industrial and graphic designer at VNIITE in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg, Russia). In 1983 moved to Denmark, founded Boris Berlin Design, in 1987 co-founder and partner of Komplot Design, in 2010 co-founded partnership Iskos-Berlin Design