Minimalist living room with a light sofa, wood coffee table, and textured rug, set against a tall window and angled wood ceiling.

Circular design principles

From modular construction to replaceable parts, we’re integrating circular thinking into how our products are made, used, and re-used.

Circular design considers a product’s full life – not just how it’s made, but how it can be repaired, reused, or recycled. It’s a process we’ve applied in one of our key new collections; Aarhus.

Re-inforce

Design with durability in mind – from strong frames to long-lasting finishes. Our goal is to make furniture that stands up to real life and lasts for years.

Minimalist living room with light modular sofa, dark coffee table, and black dog standing on stacked books near three-pane window.

Responsible

We make responsible sourcing part of every new design process. Our Aarhus sofa in Copenhagen fabric is certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel – one of only five sofa designs in the world to achieve this.

Close-up of a light beige upholstered sofa corner with angled armrest, set against ribbed wall paneling and polished concrete floor.

Re-design

Consider the entire system within which a product is used, from production to disposal, and ensure that it supports circular flow. Our Aarhus sofa is modular, built for disassembly, and available with detachable, washable covers. These features make it easier to adapt, repair, and recycle – extending its useful life while supporting responsible end-of-life handling.

“The philosophy behind Aarhus is to strip away everything unnecessary. That’s comfort, longevity, and circular thinking all in one.”

René Hougaard, ARDE

Repair

Design for maintenance – so products stay in use longer. With replaceable components and cleaning or repair guides provided at purchase, we make it easier to extend a product’s life.

Close-up of a craftsman measuring a wooden board with a digital caliper in a workshop with blurred lights in the background.

Reuse

Design with a second life in mind – reducing waste and maximising value. Our donation program allows furniture to continue to be loved, used, and given new purpose elsewhere.

Close-up of a beige fabric sofa with wooden legs next to a wooden table, set on a textured rug against a white brick wall.

Recycle

Design for end-of-life – using fewer material types and separable components. Our Aarhus sofa is built to be disassembled, making it easier to sort recyclable parts from waste.

Light wood side table with stacked books and a dark ceramic vase holding long twigs, beside a cream upholstered armchair.
Aarhus

Shop the collection

Aarhus brings circular design to life – with replaceable covers, Nordic Swan Ecolabel certification, and a modular structure that supports disassembly and recycling.

Minimalist living room with light sofa, dark oak coffee and side tables, black floor and table lamps, and natural-tone textured rug.
Minimalist living room with light sofa, dark oak coffee and side tables, black floor and table lamps, and natural-tone textured rug.