Founded in 2024 by Edward Gubi, Design Preowned is rooted in a proud Danish design legacy and driven by a bold vision for a circular future. The company draws inspiration from Edward’s family heritage — tracing back to the founding of GUBI in 1976 by his grandparents, Lisbeth and Gubi Olsen. Following Gubi Olsen’s passing in 2023, Lisbeth Gubi invested in Design Preowned to support a new generation of responsible design thinking.
Guided by this lineage and purpose, our philosophy is simple: forgotten furniture deserves a second life. Through expert restoration, upcycling, and sustainable craftsmanship, we breathe new life into overlooked pieces — ensuring they shine again in modern settings for decades to come.
Our Three Circular Paths
Recrafted Furniture
We source original wood furniture from across Scandinavia — well-known and anonymous designs alike — and recraft them through expert restoration. These preowned pieces are cleaned, repaired, and reupholstered with premium materials to extend their life by 30–50 years. Perfect for businesses, restaurants, and offices looking to combine timeless design with conscious consumption.
Business Furniture Restoration
Why buy new when you can revive what you already own? We offer on-site collection and full-service restoration of your company’s existing furniture. From new upholstery in Sørensen leather or eco-labeled wool to structural repairs and refreshed finishes, we help organizations reduce waste, lower emissions, and upgrade their interiors — all while aligning with ESG goals
Waste to Collection
Our most visionary line turns industrial waste into new, original furniture. In partnership with top manufacturers like Kvist Industries, we transform surplus wood and discarded materials into high-end, small-batch designs — such as the iconic Table No. 1. Every piece is a story of innovation, co-creation, and circular beauty.
Our Commitment
We operate with a zero deforestation policy, using only reclaimed or upcycled wood. Every item is processed in Copenhagen and restored by skilled craftsmen, using organic cleaning agents, natural oils, and low-impact logistics. Our short-term goal: 98% CO₂ neutrality across the full lifecycle - from sourcing and repair to delivery and tracking.
With every chair, table, or stool, we reduce landfill waste and give materials a second chance. This is not just sustainability - it's stewardship.
Our Vision
We envision a furniture industry that designs less and preserves more. Where reuse is as desirable as reinvention. Where patina is celebrated, not hidden. And where every piece of furniture is a functional icon of responsibility, story, and craft.
By partnering with interior designers, architects, and visionary companies, we are building not only better interiors — but a better future.