A gently revamped icon
A refined version of Tordenskjold's original design
For more than 160 years, Tordenskjold has been a part of Danish homes. Our matchbox has not only been a practical lighting product, but also a symbol of quality, responsibility, and strong Danish design traditions. For many, it is a familiar part of everyday life—something that simply belongs.
Over the years, our visual identity has remained largely unchanged. When we introduced a new look in 2023—the first update since the 1990s—the reaction was clear: Danes missed the traditional and recognizable design that had been part of everyday life for generations.
That's why we decided to return to Tordenskjold's iconic original design. Not as a step backward, but as a way to move forward—by refining what already worked and making it ready for a new era.
A gently revamped icon
With the updated version, we respect the historical design heritage while gently improving details, correcting minor inconsistencies, and creating greater clarity across the product range. The design feels familiar at first glance—but more balanced, warmer, and more contemporary upon closer inspection.
The gentle renovation was developed in collaboration with the design duo Anders Waltz and Studio Fridan, with one clear principle in mind: to strengthen, not replace.
“Tordenskjold is a true Danish icon, and working with the brand required a deep respect for its design history.”
— Anders Waltz, designer at Anders Waltz and Studio Fridan
Inspired by the earliest matchboxes from the late 1800s, we have reintroduced fine horizontal lines as a tribute to Danish design history. The portrait has been dusted off and given a warmer tone, and "Since 1865" now has a more prominent place on the front. At the same time, we have replaced the previous color gradient with a pure orange color, which gives the design a sense of calm and allows the iconic elements to stand out more clearly.
On the back, we have simplified and clarified the content to create a more coherent and recognizable system across the range.
A partnership rooted in shared values
Alongside the launch of the updated design, we are embarking on a long-term collaboration with Hus Forbi, an organization that works to support homeless and socially vulnerable people in Denmark.
Through the campaign "What does home mean to you?", we invite reflection on a simple but deeply personal question. In the campaign, different voices share their experiences of what "home" means to them – reminding us that home is not always defined by walls or an address, but by people, security, warmth, and community.
“We are incredibly proud that Tordenskjold has chosen to collaborate with Hus Forbi and help raise awareness of our mission in society. We strongly believe that social responsibility and cozy moments at home can go hand in hand—it's a powerful message that builds bridges and adds nuance to our work."
— Michelle Jørgensen, Brand Manager at Hus Forbi
This collaboration also means that a portion of our future sales will go directly to supporting Hus Forbi's work. By placing the Hus Forbi logo on the back of our products, we want to remind ourselves—and our consumers—that everyday moments at home can also contribute to something bigger.
A partnership rooted in shared values
Lighting a candle, starting a fire, creating warmth—these are small, familiar actions. With the updated design and collaboration with Hus Forbi, we want to emphasize that these everyday moments can have a meaning that extends beyond themselves.
We are now introducing Tordenskjold's refined original designs across an expanded product range, which will be available in stores at the beginning of the new year.
A familiar matchbox.
A gentle renewal.
And a shared belief that warmth, responsibility, and community belong together.
Explore our refined designs
Follow us on Instagram @tordenskjold_danmark and learn more about the collaboration.
About Anders Waltz and Studio Fridan
Frida Nilsson (Studio Fridan®) and Anders Waltz Hegelund (Anders Waltz®) are designers based in Copenhagen and Stockholm. They work with visual identity, digital experiences, and brand storytelling for companies that want to strengthen their presence, create recognition, and combine aesthetics with function.
About Hus Forbi
Hus Forbi is an organization whose purpose is to support people in vulnerable life situations. This is done through a range of activities, including the sale of the newspaper Hus Forbi.www.husforbi.dk
