Wardrobe ‘KU16’ by Cees Braakman for Pastoe
Wardrobe ‘KU16’ designed by Cees Braakman for his ‘Japanese series’ and produced by Pastoe in the Netherlands starting from the 1960’s . The KU16 a is a typical example of minimalist design with its laminated white fronts, black plastic door handles and black lacquered steel frame underneath the teak cabinets. The feet are adjustable to level this piece out on an uneven floor. This wardrobe has plenty of storage space behind the folding doors. The original shelving and mirror, the white rack for small garments like socks or underwear, the brass coat rails… it’s all there. On both sides of the top there’s a little dent in the wood. One of the door handles is missing a chip of 3 millimeter. Further in good condition, as shown in the pictures. Maker’s label present inside and numbered on the back.
Product / Model
Designer
Manufacturer
Country
Date
Product ID
Price
Dimensions:
W: 227 cm
D: 55 cm
H: 220 cm
Weight: approx. 80 kilo
The Dutch designer Cees Braakman (1917-1995) was born upstairs the UMS furniture factory. He started working for UMS at the young age of 17 and became most important for this furniture company, now known as Pastoe, following in his father’s footsteps as manager and head of design. Braakman was instrumental in shaping the company’s modernist design philosophy, with a focus on clean lines, functional design, and high-quality materials.
His father was manager at UMS Pastoe before the war and Cees continued his father’s work with the company after the war ended. . Around 1947 UMS starts focussing on contemporary design under the guidance of it’s new director and designer Cees. UMS was looking to re-invent itself during the Reconstruction and Cees went to visit 12 furniture factories in the United States to learn about new designs and production methods.
Braakman himself launches, after a study in 1947 at George Nelson associates in the United States, a new technique with curved plywood which was finished with oak and birch veneer. Inspired by the work of Charles & Ray Eames he returned home with this new production method in which the whole furniture making process could be done without interference from the artisan. The praised SB02 dining chair was born out of this new technique. In 1948 the name “Pas-Toe” is added to the abbreviation UMS.
UMS Pastoe also joined the Goed Wonen group that was established in 1946. This group of designers promoted the modern interior with model homes and publications explaining the Dutch how to live: not only with what furniture but also according which principles. The group was convinced that “taste is a matter of education”. The solid, heavy oak furniture, flower motives and thick curtains had to go out the door and were replaced by more Scandinavian style minimalist pieces adapted to smaller houses. The new modern furniture had to be light, airy and easy to install, transport and produce.
This sober design,promoted by The Goed Wonen group, what became the trademark style of UMS Pastoe. Flexibility was the new mantra that led to furniture systems that consumers could put together themselves, like the Made-to-measure cabinet systems. The series became a commercial success in Holland and abroad. No big surprise if you know that the teak version got the silver medal award at the 11th Triennale in Milan and Le Signe d’Or in Belgium 1957. Launched in 1958, also Braakman’s Japanese series gained notoriety.
Cees Braakman drew a clear collection of furniture pieces that were seen as functional objects and made Pastoe big in every way. Most of these designs are still incredibly popular up until today. A few of them even made it to the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam. Braakman passed away in 1995 but his legacy in design will live on forever.
We ship worldwide using trusted transport partners. Shipping costs depend on the item’s size, weight, value, and material. Each item is carefully packed using protective materials and, if needed, custom-made wooden crates. For overseas shipping, we always recommend crating.
Domestic Deliveries: In some areas we offer personal one man delivery at starting rates of 60 euro (Antwerp city and its districts). For other domestic destinations we work with Brenger at their rates, plus packing and handling fee. International Deliveries: We partner with trusted couriers like Magic Movers and Convelio. Once the item leaves our warehouse, the shipper bares full responsibility for any damage that may occur during handling or transport . We can offer shipping with full insurance. We kindly ask that you inspect your items upon delivery. Please check if your order is complete and unharmed. If you notice any issues, let us know right away so we can find a solution for you and any other party involved.
