Montana Relaunches Erik Rasmussen's Iconic 1969 Paradigm Modular Sofa

A relaunch of the iconic modular sofa by Erik Rasmussen

Montana Furniture, a Danish leader in sustainable storage and furniture for private homes and contemporary office spaces, expands into softer territory with the reintroduction of an iconic modular sofa system originally designed in 1969 by Danish designer Erik Rasmussen (1930–1984). Defined by sculptural clarity and remarkable adaptability, the design shifts character entirely through its upholstery, making it as relevant today as ever. Debuting in modern iterations under the name Paradigm, the sofa marks a new chapter in Montana Furniture’s universe of versatile, enduring design. Paradigm will debut at Montana Furniture’s flagship store and showroom during 3daysofdesign from June 18–20.

Previously known as the Paustian Modular Sofa, this design was exclusive to Paustian, which acted as both the retailer and manufacturer. Montana Furniture has now acquired the design license directly from Erik Rasmussen’s family—ensuring the legacy continues with care and authenticity. The design itself remains mostly unchanged, preserving Rasmussen’s original vision, while Montana Furniture has introduced thoughtful updates to meet the demands of modern living.

With sculptural simplicity and refined materials, Paradigm offers a versatile take on modern comfort. Featuring straight and corner modules alongside a pouffe, the system can be reconfigured, expanded, or separated to accommodate changing spaces and needs. Montana Furniture’s addition of linking brackets ensures secure module connections, while removable covers and fully replaceable components make the sofa as practical as it is elegant. These updates promote longevity and sustainability, ensuring Paradigm is designed to evolve with you—a sofa built for flexibility, modern life and lasting appeal.

Available in an array of new fabric options, including textiles from Kvadrat and Gabriel, Paradigm is suitable for residential, commercial and hospitality environments. It is made of fire-resistant foam and can be specified with high legs for easier floor cleaning—features that make it ideal for both private homes and public spaces.

“We’re proud to welcome Paradigm into the Montana Furniture universe,” says CEO Joakim Lassen. “Its modularity, visual clarity, and enduring functionality align seamlessly with our design DNA –intelligent, playful, and built to last.”

Erik Rasmussen’s graphic and sculptural design sensibility shaped both furniture and visual identity—most notably Paustian’s iconic logo, which won the 1993 Industrial Graphics Award. His original modular sofa for Paustian now lives on as Paradigm, a future-proof system that continues his visionary legacy while aligning with Montana Furniture’s commitment to thoughtful, sustainable design.

With the launch of Paradigm, Montana Furniture not only honours a pivotal figure in Danish design history but also sets a new standard for adaptable, sustainable living. Reimagined for today without compromising its original spirit, Paradigm embodies Montana Furniture’s enduring values—craftsmanship, flexibility and timeless design. As it takes centre stage during 3daysofdesign, Paradigm signals more than a product debut—it marks a bold expansion of Montana Furniture’s vision for the future of living.