The Y Chair – one of DTU’s original design treasures
The Story Behind
Many of the Y Chairs in Building 313, the Climate Challenge Laboratory, still bear subtle traces of their past: “DTH” is woven into the underside of the seat, dating back to the days when DTU was known as the Technical University of Denmark (Danmarks Tekniske Højskole).
As the chairs no longer met modern height standards, they were fitted with new glides that raise the seat height by 1–2 centimetres. A professional upholsterer has also developed bespoke cushions designed to fit both the Y Chair and the Folkestolen, allowing two Danish design classics to share the same level of contemporary comfort.
Climate Challenge Laboratory - A Living Showroom
Throughout Building 313, also known as the Climate Challenge Laboratory, DTU Campus Service has worked to create an interior where existing DTU furniture has been given a new lease of life. The design approach respects both the building’s architecture and the principles of universal design, accommodating a wide range of user needs.
The building now serves as a living showroom, demonstrating how reused furniture can be integrated into modern work and learning environments. The hope is that both users and visitors will be inspired to incorporate more repurposed furniture into future interior projects – including furniture from DTU’s own storage facilities – for the benefit of society and the environment.