Happy Hour with a Preservationist

Wednesday, Jan 20, 2010
5:30p - 6:30p

If you have yet to see the face-lift and cleansing peal operation the Foshay Tower has undergone, then the upcoming Happy Hour with a Preservationist is for you. Hear about the challenges of its preservation and enjoy a cocktail in the glamourous lounge bar or a mouth-watering meal in the chic yet comfy new location of the longstanding Manny's Steakhouse.

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3019&EM=VTY_WH_3019_minneapolis_overview
http://www.mannyssteakhouse.com/

17 Swedish Designers

The Swedes have long been known for their impeccable sense of design, but these young women bring an innovative, sensual twist to the field. From textiles to glassware, to furniture and architecture, these 17 women have made a name for themselves through their contemporary fearless designs and socially inspired solutions for everyday good design. This is a not-to-be-missed exhibit!

Opening night: Friday, Jan 29, 2010 - 6pm reception, 7pm presentation
Runs through: May 30, 2010

To read more about this event and others at the American Swedish Institute, click this link: http://www.americanswedishinst.org/ASI/Events.html

Breakfast with a Preservationist

Topic: Follow the Money - Strategies for Fundraising in Historic Preservation

Refuel your brain and belly with a coffee and pastry at the Mill City Cafe and an interesting lecture by three experts on the topic: Erin Hanafin Berg, Field Representative for the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota; Marge Ostrov, President of Friends of B’nai Abraham Arts and Culture Museum; and Aaron Hanauer, Senior Planner for Community Planning and Economic Development at the City of Minneapolis. If your interest in vintage or historic furniture spans to historic architecture, then you are sure to enjoy this and the following breakfast events.

Where: Mill City Museum, ADM Conference Room, 7th Floor, 704 S 2nd Street
When: 8a - 9a

Swedish Smörgåsbord

Have a hankering for some Swedish meatballs, herring, or cabbage pudding? I thought you did! The American Swedish Institute will be holding it's monthly Smörgåsbord on Sunday, October 18th.

This month’s menu features kålpudding (cabbage pudding) served with a cream sauce and lingon berries. Other dishes include juniper herring, herring in sweet dill mustard sauce, eggs topped with creamed caviar, cold smoked salmon served with horseradish cream, three kinds of Swedish cheese, cold roast beef, potato salad and gherkins, smoked sausages, a fresh fruit platter, pickled cucumbers, pickled beets, Jansson’s Temptation, meatballs, boiled potatoes, and Swedish sausages. For dessert, enjoy apple crisp with homemade vanilla sauce.

Leroy Larson and Mel Brendan will perform old-time Scandinavian music during the meal. Reservations (including sales tax) are $23 for ASI members, $28 for nonmembers, $9 ages 6–11, and free for children under six. Reservations are required by Friday, October 16 and are non-refundable.

http://www.americanswedishinst.org/ASI/Events.html

"Pretty Much 100% Scandinavian" Movie

Award-winning filmmaker Stefan Quinth returns to the American Swedish Institute on Sunday, October 11th with a new light-hearted movie exploring what it is to be Scandinavian-American. Quinth has teamed up with William Beyer, former American Swedish Institute staff member to travel through Swedish Minnesota, stopping at Scandinavian events and towns throughout Minnesota and the border states. Immigration, language, food, celebration, jokes, a tear or two—it’s a rich journey, fueled by gallons of coffee.

Event Details:
Where: American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA
When: Sunday, October 11th, 2p & 7p
Cost: $8 ASI members, $10 non-members
http://www.americanswedishinst.org/ASI/Events.html

Midcentury Modern Architecture Event

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is holding an event to discuss the Midcentury Modern architectural heritage of the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. As many of these structures are reaching the 50 year milestone for historic designation, it is time recognize those with architectural significance and those in danger of destruction, and then to discuss the means of preserving them. This event will be held at the fitting Christ Church Lutheran designed by Eliel and Eero Saarinen in S. Mpls, which was inducted to the National Register of Historic Places earlier this year. This event is free, but space is limited, so reserve your spot by emailing trustmodern@nthp.org.

WHEN: Tuesday, October 27, 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

WHERE: Christ Church Lutheran, 3244 34^th Avenue, Minneapolis

Doors open at 6:00, Panel discussion begins at 6:30, to be followed by a reception.

Panelists include:

Todd Grover, AIA, MacDonald and Mack architects

Charlene K. Roise, President, Hess Roise Historical Consultants

Stephanie Atwood, Historian, Hess Roise Historical Consultants

Victoria Young, St. Thomas University

Christine Madrid French. Director, Modernism + Recent Past Program, National Trust for Historic Preservation

More Information about Christ Church Lutheran:

Minnesota’s newest National Historic Landmark, the church was designed by Eliel and Eero Saarinen (1949, 1962), a father and son known for their innovative and imaginative buildings nationwide. Other buildings by Eliel Saarinen include the Cranbrook Educational Community in Michigan (also a National Historic Landmark). Eero Saarinen’s works include the 1963 St. Louis Gateway Arch (a NHL) and the 1962 TWA Terminal at JFK Airport in New York (listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

http://www.christchurchluth.org/

Danish Culture in the Twin Cities

This past weekend, Danish Teak Classics was invited to display a few pieces of designer furniture at the Danish American Historic Society international conference at the downtown Radisson. I hope you were able to attend, but if you missed it, I'd like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Danish American Center in Minneapolis. If you are fond of Danish Modern design, you may also take interest in some cultural events held at the DAC. Among the many offerings, they offer Danish language courses, traditional dance classes, and concerts. On Tuesday, Oct 6th, a Viking music group will perform at 7p. Visit http://www.dac.mn/ for more information and a whole list of events.

New Inventory from Denmark!

As many of you know, Steve Swanson, owner & president of Danish Teak Classics, is currently in Denmark selecting mid-century modern furniture to ship back to our showroom and restoration shop here in Minneapolis. We expect the shipment to arrive in mid-November before Thanksgiving and the kick-off for holiday shopping. Here is a little taste of some of the goodies soon to arrive!

Silver Cocoon Trunk Show at Danish Teak Classics Today!

Danish Teak Classics is hosting fellow local designer and friend, Tia Salmela Keobounpheng for an exciting Trunk Show in the DTC showroom from 12-5p, Saturday, September 12th. Inspired by the organic forms of nature, but infused with the sensibility of an architect's eye, Tia's jewelry is both cutting-edge and soft. She is a rising star in the Minneapolis fashion scene, so be in-the-know before everyone knows!

Danish Teak at Home

Speaking of well decorated homes, thanks to all who submitted photos of their own Danish Teak Classics. We received many great images which we set on a rotating projector display throughout the Art-A-Whirl weekend for everyone to enjoy - which they did! Each home had a uniquely beautiful adaptation of Danish Modern, which shows the versatility of this furniture. Sorry I could not include all the photos, but here is a snippet.

Keck + Keck

I'd have to say, one of the most enjoyable aspects of working at Danish Teak Classics is the uniquely interesting conversations I have with the ever varied people who visit us. Last weekend, during the whirlwind that is Art-A-Whirl, I had the chance to talk with a man about a Keck + Keck home his daughter had just bought. You may know the name from the most prevalently featured home on display as the "Homes of Tomorrow" exhibition during the 1933-34 Chicago World's Fair.

Having written a research paper on another home featured in the exhibition, The Rostone House, I was interested to know what homes and buildings Keck + Keck went on to design after their success at the fair. I stumbled across these fantastic interior photos of a 1955 home in Chicago and just had to share them. It warms my heart to see a home of this stature rightfully decorated.

Voltage Fashion Amplified

If you are a fan of Danish Teak Classics and/or alive in Minneapolis, chances are, you are aware it is once again Fashion Week. Don't let the Midwest location throw you, we are a viable contender as one of the most fashionable and edgy cities in the U.S. After returning from Philadelphia last night, I've come to see that we do not receive the urban cred we deserve. That being said, tomorrow night, the Voltage Fashion Amplified show at First Ave promises to be a visual and musical feast. Put on your fancy pants, and for goodness sakes, be a bit daring; Midwest is not synonymous with po-dunk.

http://www.voltagefashionamplified.com/

Road Trip: Christ Church Lutheran

In honor of the Christian holiday, I've chosen a worship space as the next must-see midcentury modern site in the Twin Cities.

Christ Church Lutheran in South Minneapolis was a Father-Son collaborative project by Eliel and Eero Saarinen. Eliel completed the worship space in 1949, and when the congregation needed more space, they hired Eero to design the Sunday School and social gathering spaces. Ironically, it was both Saarinen's last commissions. Christ Church Lutheran has just been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

“If a building is honest, the architecture is religious.” Eliel Saarinen

Honest use of materials has created a tranquil, spiritually inspiring space. Whether religious or not, everyone should take the time to absorb the visual ambiance and the amazing acoustic quality of this structure.

3244 34th Ave S, Minneapolis MN 55406
612.721.6611

Danish Teak Classics on RetroStart.com

Danish Teak Classics has just been added to a list of US dealers of Mid-century Modern Furniture. RetroStart.com is a great starting point if you are looking to redesign a room or pick up just one piece. It has a directory of dealers, history of designers, links to workshops and fairs, top magazines that feature articles on mid-century design, and a plethora of blogs devoted to the love of Mid-century Modern. If you're anything like me, these type of blogs can eat up at least an hour of your work day...

SHOW US YOUR TEAK!

Call for Candid Photos of Danish Modern Interiors

Danish Modern furniture has remained so popular because of its versatility;

Now show us how you use it everyday in your own style!

Capture your inner creativity and snap a photo of your Scandinavian Modern furniture as it is in your home. Submit your photo(s) to us at DTC and you will be entered in a raffle for Marimekko housewares and a selection of Danish Modern Ceramics!

Submissions will be used for a display in our showroom (and online) celebrating creative decorating, classic design and the arts. Participants are invited to join us for a reception on Friday May 15th -- an opportunity to view the display among other participants and DTC friends.

We are very excited to share the diverse ways in which you put your teak (and rosewood, etc) to use, and we need your participation to make this work! Please submit materials on or before the deadline listed below.



Photo submission deadline: May 1st, 2009

Opening Reception Friday May 15th, 5pm-7pm Danish Teak Classics Showroom

Raffle Items distributed at and after Art-A-Whirl at DTC

HUNT FOR MIDCENTURY MODERN - ROAD TRIP: Liberty Frozen Custard

At Danish Teak Classics, we love Danish Modern furniture, Modern architecture, and of course, Custard. Luckily, Liberty Frozen Custard in South Minneapolis encompasses it all. They may not be web savvy, but we wouldn't expect that from a custard shop that's a step into the past. Architecturally, the Liberty Frozen Custard shop is a great example of mid-century prefab structure with porcelain enamel metal panels. Originally built as a car service shop, the garage doors now open the dining area to fresh breezes and the buzzing of the bees. It may have gotten a bad review by Twin Cities Eats, but I think the atmosphere is reason enough to make the trip. Besides, I think you can make up your own mind about ice cream.

5401 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN‎ - (612) 823-8700‎

My New Love in Local Art

The beauty of Danish Modern furnishings is that they are so classic and simplistically beautiful, which makes them the perfect staple piece for your rotating artworks and decor. I am in the mood for bright, kitsch, and fun at the moment - possibly due to the winter that just won't let go. Well, it makes for a great excuse to get into some spring cleaning and redecorating. Keep it local with photography from Minnesota-based FriendlyMade. You'll recognize some photo's a distinct Twin Cities landmarks, she definitely has a soft spot for kitschy, mid-century signage. You can find her on Etsy.com at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5314581&order=§ion_id=&page=2

Movie Inspirations for your Danish Modern

As I was browsing through an old stack of House & Garden Magazines, I came across an issue from January 2007. This issue featured 25 Fabulous Movie Interiors. If you're feeling your place is a bit ho-hum, plop yourself on the sofa and rent one of these movies to spark your designer panache.

THE FOUNTAINHEAD (1949)
Released in 1949, The Fountainhead set was designed in the height of the modern period. The architecture and design demands as much attention as the actors. You would expect no less than an ultra chic apartment for a rebellious modern architect.

A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (1971)
To call this film avant-garde is the most friendly of terms, but the eccentric characters and flamboyantly modern pieces in the set may incite a venturing spirit in your own designs.

MON ONCLE (1958)
Released in 1958, Mon Oncle was already mocking the sterility of the Bauhaus-esque modern designs that the Danish Modern designers reacted against. This satirical spoof is perfect for any lover of fashion, history, or architecture.

THE PARTY (1968)
Set in LA in the 1960's, this pad is the ultimate Mod party house of the Hollywood upper echelon. Fun, glamorous, and sensual, this film will give help you stage a new theme fitting for a summer of fun.

THE LADIES MAN (1961)
Lighten up with this playful comedy. Mix your Danish Modern pieces with these bold colors and kitsch decor for a new twist on classic style.

MEET THE DTC CREW - JASON WISMAR

Danish Teak Classics is a small and personal company. We have a passion for our work and vintage Danish design. Each piece is unique and we treat it as such. Here is your chance to get a glimpse into the unique personalities behind the DTC magic.

1. How did you get into restoration?
I’ve studied woodworking for the last 6 yrs, so restoration is a practical application of my skills. My friend Ethan is also the shop manager at Danish Teak.

2. What do you do at Danish Teak? Describe your work.
Restoration at Danish Teak is part woodworking, part design, some fine art, and a lot of problem solving.

3. Who are your 3 favorite Danish Modern designers?
Borge Mogensen
Ole Wanscher
Hans Wegner

4. Favorite piece you’ve restored? (pic?)
My favorite restoration project was a Borge Mogensen dining table that had been degraded by a prior attempt at repairing some surface damage. I had to salvage some vintage veneer from another piece to match and carefully replace the damaged area.

5. Describe the most challenging part of restoration?
Knowing how difficult it is to replace such unique vintage pieces if we cannot repair it.

6. Why is Danish Modern furniture still so popular?
Timeless designs
Multi-functionality
Human scale

7. If you could apprentice under 1 Danish Modern designer, who would it be and why?
Hans Wegner because he was so successful in getting his designs into the people’s homes

8. If you could go anywhere tomorrow, where would you go and why?
I’d go to Sweden to study at Cappella Garden, Carl Malmsten’s school which is “dedicated to the unity of hand and spirit”

9. Would you rather?

a. Always have to say everything on your mind or never speak again?
Always say everything on my mind

b. Give up your computer or your pet?
Give up my computer

c. Be a deep sea diver or an astronaut?
Astronaut

First Thursdays in the NE MPLS Arts District

April 2nd, 2009 - 5-9pm

Spring is finally here! Hooray! So come out of your cozy cocoon, tune up that bike, and make your way to the First Thursday in the Arts District as a multitude of painters, sculptors, printmakers, photographers, ceramists, textile and fiber artists, jewelers, furniture showrooms and more open their studios at the Northrup King Building located in the heart of the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. Stop in this month at DTC to meet some of the restoration professionals and pick Steve's brain about his business and travels to Denmark. So mark your calendars and enjoy a night of artistic inspiration and merriment!

Stop by the Red Stag Supper Club after First Thursday for late night music. The Red Stag Supper Club features Happy Hour 3pm - close and late night music at 10:00 PM. Pick up a wooden nickel for a free drink at the Red Stag Supper Club during First Thursday while supplies last.