Krenit

About

A Design Classic is Here to Stay

More than 50 years after Herbert Krenchel, materials researcher and civil engineer, designed the Krenit-bowl, the original minimalistic design has been re-launched by Normann Copenhagen. The Krenit Bowl is a perfect example of good Danish design and through the years it has become a design icon.

Herbert Krenchel says: “In 1953 the idea was to make a beautiful bowl, preferably so functional and delicate that it was equally suited for use in the kitchen, on the dining table and as a decoration in the sitting room. As a material researcher I really concentrated on getting the different materials to match and look good together as well as making them equally compatible to use together. It is fantastic that the Krenit Bowl is being put into production once more”.

With its re-launch, enthusiasts can supplement their current collection and new Krenit lovers can begin their own.

Design: Herbert Krenchel
    Krenit normann copenhagenKrenit Sand - Normann CopenhagenKrenit normann copenhagenKrenit Normann Copenhagen
About

A Story Continues

The story of Herbert Krenchel and the Krenit bowl is a true story. After a lengthy process of finding the correct production method, the Krenit bowl was launched in 1953. It quickly became popular and a clear example of Danish quality design. In 1954 the Krenit bowl won a golden medal at La Trienale in Milan. Since then it has been displayed at several museums all over the world and can be found in countless Danish and international design homes. In the post war years there was an increasing interest in this beautiful high-quality design. The bowl continued to be popular and it was manufactured in 8 colors and 9 sizes. But in 1966 something happened that changed things. Enamel was no longer the preferred material, and factory departments that manufactured enamel products were closed down. Herbert Krenchel could not find another manufacturer who could supply such a bowl of the required high quality and as a consequence of this he ceased production of the Krenit bowls. Until today, it has only been possible to get hold of the originally manufactured Krenit bowls at auctions and jumble sales at high prices. With Normann Copenhagen’s re-launching of Krenit the story continues and Krenit is once more accessible for lovers of design throughout the world.
About

Unique Collaboration Across the Generations

Production of the Krenit Bowl ceased in 1966, and not until the meeting with Normann Copenhagen was the production of the classic bowl resumed. The re-launch of the original Krenit bowl is the story of a unique collaboration between Normann Copenhagen and Herbert Krenchel which gives fresh life to the golden age of a well-known design icon. 

CEO Poul Madsen and Jan Andersen, Normann Copenhagen, say: “It is with deep respect for Herbert Krenchel’s original design that Normann Copenhagen is re-launching the iconic Krenit Bowl. We love the Danish minimalistic design from the 1950s, and when Herbert Krenchel contacted us to get Normann Copenhagen to resume production, we did not doubt for a second. The Krenit range has a plain and simple expression which goes perfectly with Normann Copenhagen.”
Designer

Herbert Krenchel

Herbert Krenchel graduated with a Master of Engineering from the Technical University of Denmark. Herbert Krenchel’s research was focused on materials and fiber reinforcement. Since the 1950’s, simultaneously with his research, Herbert Krenchel has worked with design. The enameled Krenit bowl won the gold medal at the 1954 Milan Triennale. 

"I am excited about shapes and structures. The surface on a design object is important because it makes people want to reach out for it. I also believe that there has to be a balance between function and aesthetics. A good design must therefore contain more than one aspect to make the perfect overall impression. My inspiration comes from several things surrounding me – it can’t be explained. For me design is a way to express yourself – it’s a way to create things just the way you want it."