HOPTIMIST

Hoptimist – Danish design that has been bringing smiles since 1968

In 1968, cabinetmaker Gustav Ehrenreich created the small spring-loaded figure, Hoptimist, which would turn out to be something very special. To this day, it still brings a smile to the faces of adults and children of all ages.

The figure is a timeless decorative item that has occupied a place on shelves, sideboards and tables in homes around the world for many years – and here at Kitchen Living Dining, you will find a wide range of Hoptimists for every occasion.

A small figure representing Danish joy of life

Behind the small, smiling figure lies much more than just a decorative element. The Hoptimist is a design legacy, created with a simple purpose: to spread joy and optimism. Over the decades, the jumping figure has found its way into homes all over the world – always as a symbol of the little moments that brighten up everyday life.

The characteristics of the Hoptimist

The characteristic feature is that it consists of a round body with a spring that, when touched, sets it in motion for a prolonged period of time. A light touch with your finger brings the figure to life – and the immediate response makes it difficult to keep a smile off your face.

The story behind Hoptimist

The Danish design icon began in 1968 with the famous ‘Buzy Birdie’, a bird suspended from a long spring. Later came ‘Bimble’ and ‘Bumble’, which are the ones we now associate with a Hoptimist – a spring-loaded figure standing firmly on its two legs.

Ehrenreich's early 70s Hoptimists were created in the spirit of the times in strong, clear colours. The aim was to bring a smile to people's faces when they encountered these small, lively and colourful figures.

The little figure became world famous, and this piece of Danish design was on everyone's lips. However, mass production only lasted until 1974, when an import ban in the United States forced Ehrenreich to close the factory.

After the Danish designer's death, it was brought back to life by designer Lotte Steffensen and her son Erik Ehrenreich. Today, the little figures are produced in the spirit of Gustav Ehrenreich, with a focus on good Danish design and joie de vivre. 

See the large selection of Hoptimists here in the shop

In our webshop you will find the full Hoptimist range. From the classic figures to the modern ones. Hoptimists are available in several different sizes: 

• Small: 6.6-7.6 cm high
• Medium: 9.5-10.7 cm high
• Large: 14-15 cm high
• Xtra large: 23-24 cm high 

Read more about the selection below.

• Classic Hoptimists

Bimble and Bumble are the best known of all the Hoptimist figures and are especially known for their happy and welcoming personalities, round shapes and springs that make them jump when touched. With their smiling expressions, they not only bring life to your interior design – they also create little moments of joy in everyday life.

The classic Bimble and Bumble figures are available in a wide range of colours, both bright and matte, so you are sure to find a Hoptimist in your favourite colour.

• Wooden Hoptimists

Do you also love using warm wood in your home décor, or do you know someone who does? Then a Wooden Hoptimist is the obvious choice. The wooden Hoptimists are available in several of the beloved figures, where you can choose between untreated oak, oiled oak, smoked oak or black-stained oak.

The natural material emphasises the warm expression of the Hoptimist and adds timeless Scandinavian charm to your home.

• Hoptimist lamps

The Hoptimist lamps combine functional lighting with the iconic, smiling design of the classic Hoptimists. They create a warm and cosy atmosphere and add optimism, light and personality to any room.

Hoptimist lamps are available in different colours and sizes, making them ideal for both children's rooms and modern interiors, where they can spread smiles and optimism.

• Hoptimist graduates

The graduate Hoptimists are a special edition of the iconic figures, created to celebrate new graduates and their achievements. With a distinctive graduation cap and a smiling expression, they become a lasting memory of a big day filled with joy, pride and new dreams.

This figurine is a popular gift for graduates, bringing smiles and happiness on a memorable day.

• Hoptimist animals

Hoptimist animals are a series of charming Hoptimists that take the form of cute animal figures. These figurines retain the cheerful, bouncing design and are available in various animal motifs, including Hoptimist dog, Hoptimist cat and birds. Hoptimist animals bring extra life and joy to both children's rooms and animal lovers.

• Soft Hoptimists

Soft Hoptimists are a variation of the Hoptimists in delicate, soft and matte colours, perfect for those who love a softer and gentler look. Hoptimist Soft is available in several variations, sizes and colours.

• Hoptimist key rings

Hoptimist key rings are miniature versions of the iconic Hoptimists, designed to spread joy on the go. These small, charming figures are attached to key rings and bring the characteristic smile and bouncing design to your keys. They are perfect as gifts or personal accessories that brighten up everyday life.

• Newborn Hoptimists

Celebrate new beginnings and newborn babies with the cute Newborn Hoptimists. Newborn Hoptimists are baby Hoptimists, available in girl and boy versions.

A Newborn Hoptimist is more than a gift – it is a symbolic celebration of joy, the beginning of life and endless possibilities, making it the perfect gift for baby showers, christenings or maternity visits.

• Hoptimist Birdie

The Hoptimist Birdie is a cute and decorative version of the classic Hoptimists, shaped like little birds. The Hoptimist bird has the characteristic jumping design that symbolises joy and positivity. With their stylish and colourful appearance, Hoptimist Birdies add a playful and elegant touch to any interior or children's room.

• Hoptimist Christmas

Hop into the Christmas spirit with the festive versions of the Christmas Hoptimists, which are guaranteed to spread Christmas cheer and joy, whether given as gifts or displayed as Christmas decorations in your home.

In Hoptimist Christmas, you will find familiar variants such as Hoptimist Christmas baubles, Hoptimist reindeer and Hoptimist Santa Clauses.

• Hoptimists for every occasion

There is a Hoptimist for every occasion in life – big and small. Delight your loved one with a Valentine Hoptimist, cheer on your national team with a Hoptimist fan or celebrate the newlyweds with Hoptimist bride and groom.

Hoptimist – the perfect gift idea

Are you looking for a gift that spreads joy and has a deeper meaning? Hoptimist is the perfect choice. With their iconic, smiling design, they symbolise optimism, joie de vivre and togetherness – values that make them a special gift idea for any occasion.

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, a graduation, an anniversary or a new beginning, a Hoptimist will bring smiles and warmth to the recipient's everyday life.

In addition, the lively figures add a decorative and personal touch to the home – a gift that is not only given but also remembered and cherished for many years to come.

FAQ – frequently asked questions about Hoptimist

• What is a Hoptimist?

A Hoptimist is an iconic Danish design figure created to bring smiles, joy and energy into the home. The figure consists of a round body with a spring that jumps when pressed – a simple movement that brightens up everyday life.

• Who designed the first Hoptimist?

The first Hoptimist was created in 1968 by Danish cabinetmaker Gustav Ehrenreich. He wanted to design a figure that symbolised joy and optimism – something that Hoptimists still stand for today.

• What sizes are Hoptimists available in?

Hoptimists are available in several different sizes:  

• Small: 6.6-7.6 cm high
• Medium: 9.5-10.7 cm high
• Large: 14-15 cm high
• Xtra large: 23-24 cm high 

Regardless of size, they all spread the same amount of joy.

• What materials are Hoptimists available in?

Hoptimists are available in both classic plastic and natural wood types such as oak, smoked oak and black-stained oak. The wooden versions add an elegant, Scandinavian touch to any interior.

• Is a Hoptimist a good gift idea?

Yes, Hoptimists are an ideal gift for many occasions – from birthdays and anniversaries to christenings and wedding celebrations. Their cheerful design and positive aura make them a special and personal gift.

• How do I best care for my Hoptimist?

A Hoptimist requires minimal maintenance. Wipe it gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to preserve the colours.

• Can Hoptimists be used as decoration all year round?

Yes, Hoptimists are perfect all year round – whatever the season. You can also find special editions for Christmas, graduation parties or baby showers, so they always match life's big moments.

Buy all Hoptimists online at Kitchen Living Dining

Treat yourself or someone you care about to an iconic Hoptimist – Danish design that spreads joy in everyday life. At Kitchen Living Dining, you will find the entire official selection of Hoptimists in all sizes, colours and variants.

We offer fast delivery within 3-5 business days, free shipping on orders over 50 € and a 30-day return policy, so you can shop with confidence and ease.

We look forward to sending your Hoptimist to you!