Schlegel is best known for his wooden furniture, which was both functional and elegant. He also worked on building and interior design, including for the 1937 World Fair in Paris. His creations have been exhibited at numerous design shows in Europe and the USA.
Schlegel was a founding member of the Association of Danish Architects in 1929 and played a key role in the development of modern design in Denmark. His contribution to the Scandinavian design movement is considerable, and his work continues to inspire many designers today.