Peter Hvidt & Orla Molgaard Model FD 451 Daybed/Sofa

Designed by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, the Model FD 451 is a convertible sofa and daybed produced in Denmark by France & Søn. Introduced during the 1950s, the design combines a solid teak frame, woven cane side panels, loose upholstered cushions, and an adjustable mechanism that allows the sofa to convert into an extended daybed. 

This example features a sculpted teak frame with rounded edges, tapered legs, and exposed joinery throughout. Each arm incorporates an inset panel of woven Danish cane surrounded by a shaped teak frame. The rear construction is fully exposed, with a horizontal teak back rail supported by two shaped vertical members. The open structure allows the teak frame and construction details to remain visible from the rear.

The sofa is upholstered in a textured blue fabric, with a single full-width seat cushion and two separate rectangular back cushions. The cushions have softly rounded edges and a simple, unbuttoned construction. The blue upholstery contrasts with the warm tone and visible grain of the teak frame.

A defining feature of the FD 451 is its convertible construction. The cane-sided arms can be released and lowered outward, extending the usable surface beyond the central seat. With both sides lowered and the back cushions repositioned, the sofa converts into a full-length daybed. The photographs show the mechanism in both its upright sofa configuration and fully extended position, including the metal support arms that stabilize the lowered side sections. A brass release buttons is integrated into the rear frame to operate this mechanism. 

The rear view highlights the substantial teak framework, including the shaped junctions between the horizontal and vertical members and the open sections behind the cushions. Small brass-colored hardware details are incorporated into the frame and legs. The cane panels remain exposed when the arms are lowered, forming horizontal extensions at either end of the daybed.