16/06/2026
Some anniversaries commemorate a date. Others bring a person back into the room.
On 8 June 2026, the Embassy of Switzerland had the honor of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Danish designer Verner Panton. Through stories, memories, and reflections, we were reminded not only of his remarkable work, but also of the creative, curious, and visionary person behind it. More than a tribute to a century since his birth, the occasion reflected the enduring influence of his works.
Perhaps no one expressed this more beautifully than his daughter Carin Panton von Halem: "The thought of him turning 100 feels surreal. In my memories, he remains the creative, youthful, and endlessly curious person he was."
The celebration marked more than the centenary of one of Denmark's most influential designers. It also honored the unique connection Verner Panton created between Denmark and Switzerland: "Verner remained curious throughout his life and found a home in Switzerland from where he continued to explore form, colors, new materials and production methods."
A heartfelt thank you goes to Carin Panton von Halem and her team from Verner Panton® Design AG for collaborating on this important event and for sharing the memories and works of her father.
Furthermore, this event would not have been possible without the support of Alexa Bruun Rasmussen, Camilla Gelbjerg-Hansen and Lars Gelbjerg-Hansen from ASDAC – Association Suisse-Danemark pour les Arts et la Culture, as well as VERPAN and Vitra, for sharing selected works by Verner Panton and for helping create a space that celebrated his vision, creativity, and enduring legacy.
Thank you Leckerbaer for the beautiful cakes!
Photo credits: ©Tonya Matyu, ©Davy Denke
