Søren Hvalsøe Garde, Founder of Garde Hvalsøe, says cabinetmaking and craftsmanship remains at the heart of his beloved brand.
Tell us about your design background and the history of the brand.
I have always put a priority on quality. My first design investment was four Wegner chairs, PP203s, purchased in the 1990s. They became a purchase for life, like my Mogens Koch bookcases, which have only grown more beautiful with time. Iconic Danish cabinetmakers from the 20th century, such as Hans J. Wegner, Mogens Koch and Finn Juhl, are a great source of inspiration. From the outset, my motivation has been my love of classic design and a desire to create bespoke interior solutions of a similar quality and beauty.
My first cabinetmaking workshop was in Ryesgade in Copenhagen, a street that had many small metal and woodworking shops. I secured assignments by going door to door. I grew up with a father who was always at his workbench, making things from wood, so I caught the bug from a young age.
At one point I got together with a group of young architects, including Boje Lundgaard and Lene Tranberg, who went on to found Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects. Initially, our projects were virtually philanthropic in nature, but it was an enjoyable learning experience, because we had such profound mutual respect for one another. At one point, we made a kitchen together. Along with a long and proud craft tradition, that kitchen continues to define Garde Hvalsøe’s design expression.
What does Garde Hvalsøe represent as a design company?
At Garde Hvalsøe we have one goal: to deliver tailor-made kitchen and interior solutions, with lasting aesthetics and functionality. We take the craft seriously and personally, it’s all or nothing with perfection at the highest level, and the materials we use are the best we can get our hands on. Our design style is rooted in classic virtues from Danish crafts and design traditions. Our first kitchen was created in 1992 and is a timeless study in quality, elegance and furniture art, and we maintain these principles in everything we create today.
Quality is at the centre of our design philosophy and practice. The basic lessons any successful cabinetmaker must learn is that if the base is not good, the furniture will never be good. If the frame is crooked, the drawers will not line up. If the wood has not been properly dried, cracks will emerge. We believe quality outcomes require quality materials and work exclusively with natural materials that have a long lifespan. We particularly love working with wood, as it is organic and alive, creating the most beautiful materials. A wooden floor may have survived 300 years, three wars and 100 balls and can be worn, without being ruined.
How do you continue to innovative in the industry?
Our kitchens are unique because of their timeless design, natural materials and expert craftsmanship. They combine simplicity with functionality, creating a warm, inviting, beautiful and practical space. Made primarily from wood and sustainable materials, they are built to last for generations and age gracefully over time.
At Garde Hvalsøe, we are, first and foremost, cabinetmakers – it’s the core of our heritage. We are deeply committed to creating sublime craftsmanship designed to endure, steering clear of fleeting kitchen trends. Over the past 25 years, we have honed our woodworking skills to perfection and developed a profound understanding of wood as a material, inside and out.
Today, we are continuously expanding our perspective, exploring new materials to play a larger part in our portfolio, and hence evolving our universe with crafted details in our designs, using the approach we have from our cabinetmaking heritage. We are intrigued by the potential of other materials, particularly in harmony and interaction with wood or as a standalone expression. Our curiosity drives us, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in craftsmanship.
How do you manage working globally?
Garde Hvalsøe’s furniture is made in Denmark, and we have always relied on local production, to ensure high quality, preserve craft traditions, and support local craftsmen. Through the collaboration with these masters, we continue and develop the proud craftsmanship virtues we cherish. This choice gives us close contact with production and ensures that each product meets our high standards. Once completed, it is then transported for installation.
We work very closely together with our clients and our process is based on trust and human connectedness. Dialogue is crucial for creating a good experience and we invite our customers to delve into every detail and see their dreams come true through craftsmanship that honours materials and traditions. With our attention to detail and understanding of materials, we bring to life well-balanced solutions that create not just immediate value, but lasting significance. We master the art of combining aesthetics and functionality in a way that not only meets but also elevates our customers’ needs. From drawings and sketches to fully realised kitchen and interior solutions, every detail is characterised by precision and a deep understanding of proportions and wholeness.
What is the biggest challenge for Garde Hvalsøe in the global kitchen design industry?
One of the biggest challenges is to convey to consumers what bespoke truly means. Today, many brands claim to offer bespoke solutions, when in reality, they deliver standard products with minor adjustments — perhaps a change in material or finish. At Garde Hvalsøe, every kitchen and piece of interior furniture is crafted from scratch, with every detail carefully considered and tailored to the specific project. This approach allows us to work beyond standard measurements and fully utilise the space available. It is particularly advantageous in small spaces, where custom-built solutions ensure optimal functionality, beauty, and balance. Our challenge is to make this level of dedication and craftsmanship understood and valued in a market that often confuses mass customisation with true bespoke design.
What does the company aspire to look like in 20 years time?
We aspire to continue working with true bespoke cabinetry, preserving and evolving the traditions of fine craftsmanship. In 20 years’ time, we envision Garde Hvalsøe as an international ambassador of Nordic design excellence — a company that remains relevant through timeless design and uncompromising quality. We expect a significant part of our business to come from our Second Life initiative, allowing kitchens and bespoke interiors to find new homes and extend their lifespan, contributing to a more circular approach in high-end design. We also aim to inspire both clients and future craftsmen by continuing to share our values of thoughtful design and respect for materials.
