Jan de Jong cabinet Bossche School Netherlands 1970

Jan de Jong

Netherlands 1917 – 2001
Architect and designer

This rare and highly collectible piece of “Bossche School” furniture by architect Jan de Jong is a stunning example of the innovative design philosophy that emerged from his collaboration with Dom Hans van der Laan in the early 1970s. Designed specifically for a private residence in Oirschot, this piece exemplifies the principles of bespoke design, where furniture and architectural features are tailored to the unique needs of a building and its inhabitants. As one of Dom Hans van der Laan’s most talented students, Jan de Jong played a pivotal role in the development of the Bossche School movement, which emphasized functional, mathematically-derived forms and a profound understanding of materials and proportions.

The cabinet is designed using the concept of the “plastische getal” (plastic number), a mathematical idea pioneered by Dom Hans van der Laan, which sought to create harmonious proportions through geometry. The cabinet’s clean, geometric lines and precisely measured proportions are a direct manifestation of this philosophy, making it not only a functional piece of furniture but also an embodiment of architectural thought and mathematical beauty.

The cabinet is constructed from pine wooden planks that are nailed onto an inner wooden structure. The nails, strategically placed and prominently visible, serve as a signature feature of Bossche School furniture, highlighting the craftsmanship and creating a textured, almost sculptural quality. These visible nails, which were a deliberate design choice, also serve to reinforce the structural integrity of the piece while adding an extra dimension to the design. De Jong’s commitment to perfectly aligned carpentry ensures that these nails, far from detracting from the overall aesthetic, enhance the craftsmanship and add character to the piece.

The gentle patina that has developed over time is a natural result of years of careful use and exposure, giving the cabinet a depth and warmth that only adds to its authenticity. Although it was repainted years ago in its original color, the piece still retains the charm and integrity of its design from the early 1970s. It stands as a rare, original work from one of the leading figures of the Bossche School and is a perfect example of how furniture can be designed not only as functional objects but as integral components of a building’s architectural expression.

This private commission, crafted specifically for a home in Oirschot, is part of a broader body of work by Jan de Jong, and it is a true collector’s item for anyone passionate about architectural history and design. Other pieces from the same private residence are also available in our listings, offering an extraordinary opportunity to acquire a full set of this unique, bespoke furniture from one of the most influential Dutch design movements of the 20th century.

Jan de Jong, as both an architect and a furniture designer, helped shape the modernist landscape in the Netherlands, creating pieces that continue to inspire and influence contemporary design. As Dom Hans van der Laan’s most brilliant student, de Jong’s work carries forward the ideals of functional, mathematically-driven design while celebrating the beauty of natural materials and craftsmanship.