Our Story
More than a century with design at its heart
The story of Illums Bolighus began in Copenhagen in 1925. For more than 100 years, it has been a prominent destination for furniture, lighting and interior design – always guided by quality, aesthetics and fine craftsmanship.
From its earliest visionary interiors on Amagertorv to stores in several European countries, the ambition has remained the same: to bring together the very best in Scandinavian and international design and present it in inspiring surroundings.
1925-1941
The Beginning
In 1925, Danish businessman Kaj Dessau founded the store BO.
Together with artistic consultant Brita Drewsen, he created a new retail concept in which furniture, textiles, art and home accessories were presented as complete interiors.
The concept was unusual for its time and helped raise awareness of Danish interior design both nationally and internationally.
Throughout the 1930s, BO became renowned for its forward-thinking approach, commitment to quality and artistic exhibitions.
In 1941, BO was acquired by the Illum, Berg and Trock-Jansen families and renamed Illums Bolighus.
1961
A New Façade on Amagertorv
In 1961, architect Kay Kørbing designed the distinctive building and façade on Amagertorv. With its clean lines, large windows and understated extravagance, the façade became a striking yet harmonious addition to the historic cityscape.
For decades, the iconic windows have provided the setting for changing displays and have become a well-known hallmark of Illums Bolighus. The façade continues to define the company’s flagship store in the heart of Copenhagen.
1972–2025
An Evolving Design House
- In 1972, Illums Bolighus on Amagertorv was expanded with a third floor, providing even more space for furniture, lighting and interior design.
- In 2001, Henrik Ypkendanz became CEO.
- In 2005, Illums Bolighus opened its first international store in Oslo.
- In 2010, its international expansion continued with the opening of its first store in Sweden.
- In 2016, Illums Bolighus opened its first store in Germany.
- In 2023, Illums Bolighus opened its second flagship store in Lyngby Storcenter.
- By the end of 2025, Illums Bolighus had grown from its original store on Amagertorv into an international design house with stores in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Germany.
Throughout this period, the original ambition was preserved: to unite classic design with contemporary expressions and present it in inspiring surroundings.
2026
85 Years as Illums Bolighus
In 2026, we celebrate 85 years under the name Illums Bolighus. The anniversary marks 85 years as an iconic design house with quality, exceptional customer service and fine craftsmanship at its heart.
For generations, Illums Bolighus has brought together the very best in furniture, lighting and interior design. The anniversary is a tribute to the company’s history, its proud traditions and the commitment to quality that has characterised Illums Bolighus since the beginning.
The anniversary year also marks the beginning of a new chapter. With the opening of its 26th store in Fornebu, Norway, Illums Bolighus continues its international expansion – with respect for the past and an eye to the future.