In 1911, at age 22, Henningsen (1889-1965) completed his cabinetmaker apprenticeship with one of the most recognized cabinetmakers of his day, I.P. Mørck. He then traveled around Europe to gather experience and inspiration, working in Germany, France and Great Britain before returning to Copenhagen in 1915. He opened his own furniture shop, drawing on customer input to better understand demand and improve production processes.