The history behind the shelving system from 1928
The Bookcase System began as a private solution. Mogens Koch wanted a bookcase that could grow with the collection of books in his own home, and in 1928 he designed a simple box in fixed dimensions that could be stacked vertically and placed side by side. Koch was a student of Kaare Klint, and the system translates the methodology of the Klint school into storage: the modules are proportioned according to book formats, ensuring that the shelving uses space efficiently for its intended purpose. Koch himself described the underlying principle: “The highest form of simplicity creates something enduring, entirely free from the influence of fashion.” Today, the Bookcase System is one of the most widely used modular systems in Danish furniture history.
Production was undertaken by Rud. Rasmussen’s Cabinetmakers, founded in 1869 and based at its workshop on Nørrebrogade in Copenhagen from 1875 to 2016. The solid-wood shelves and cabinets were made there, and these are the examples traded by KLASSIK today. Carl Hansen & Søn acquired the cabinetmaking company in 2011 and continues to produce the system, but a pre-owned Mogens Koch bookcase from Nørrebrogade carries decades of patina.
The design and materials
The strength of the system lies in its fixed dimensions. All units fit together, regardless of when they were produced, allowing new modules to extend older arrangements in both height and width. In practical terms, this means that a collection of bookcases rarely remains static: it can be rearranged when a room changes function and expanded as the book collection grows.
The craftsmanship is evident in the details. The units are made from solid wood with dovetail joints at all four corners, and the surfaces are typically oiled. This construction ensures that a Mogens Koch bookcase with many decades behind it can remain functional without losing its stability.
How to combine bookcase units, shelving and cabinets
Begin with your requirements: open shelves for books, cabinets below for anything you wish to keep out of sight, and space for the system to grow over time. KLASSIK’s selection changes continuously, and we are happy to help create an arrangement suited to the room, either in mixed woods or a single variety throughout.
The bookcase unit – the system’s basic module
The open bookcase unit is the foundation of the system. A Mogens Koch bookcase is dimensioned according to book formats, and the units work both individually and as complete floor-to-ceiling walls. Pre-owned bookcase units by Rud. Rasmussen form the core of KLASSIK’s selection of Mogens Koch shelving.
The cabinets – concealed storage in the same dimensions
The cabinets have the same external dimensions as the open units and fit directly into the arrangement. Behind its doors, a Mogens Koch cabinet holds anything that need not remain on display, while the combination of open and closed storage gives the shelving wall a sense of calm. Many place the cabinets at the bottom to create visual weight at the base.
The woods – from mahogany to Oregon pine
At KLASSIK, the system can be found in woods including mahogany, oak, elm, ash, pine, Oregon pine, teak and cherry. The different varieties age in different ways: cherry and mahogany darken over time, oiled oak develops a deeper tone, while teak becomes lighter. The type of wood, age and patina therefore give each module its own individual expression.
Restoration at KLASSIK since 1991
At KLASSIK, each bookcase and cabinet is assessed individually, with respect for the original design and craftsmanship. Restoration focuses on preserving the furniture’s materials, proportions and character, ensuring that the overall appearance remains authentic. For the shelving system, this typically involves caring for the oiled surfaces and carrying out minor repairs to the units and doors.
Since 1991, our workshop has worked with original Danish furniture classics and has extensive experience with Mogens Koch’s furniture in different models and variations. When carrying out repairs, surface treatments and careful restoration, we use methods and materials suited to the individual piece and its original expression.
Sell your Mogens Koch shelving to KLASSIK
We purchase original Mogens Koch bookcases and cabinets made by Rud. Rasmussen’s Cabinetmakers, including open bookcase units and cabinets with doors in woods ranging from mahogany and oak to Oregon pine. Send us photographs and relevant information through our contact form to receive a professional assessment based on condition, originality and demand.
At KLASSIK, we purchase original Danish furniture from