June 8th, 2017

Inspired by Copenhagen

It is no secret that we love Scandinavian design, so naturally we would be drawn to the Danish capital of Copenhagen! This charming city in Denmark is not only a design mecca, but could easily be considered utopia with its bold urban planning coupled with impeccable architecture. Its rich history is beautifully captured in its well-preserved historic buildings and each neighborhood has a unique character. Not only can you spend days appreciating all the old and new architecture, but there are plenty of design houses and public spaces to also meander through. There is no doubt that all design enthusiasts should visit Copenhagen and absorb some Danish design inspiration! Keep reading for our recommendations for your next visit.

Architecture

We have mentioned him many times before, but Bjarke Ingles and his namesake firm Bjarke Ingles Group (BIG) is a superstar in Copenhagen. Not only is it his hometown, but many of his iconic projects are also located here! Hop on a bike or take a 15 minute metro ride to the new neighborhood of Ørestad and you will easily spot three of BIG’s residential projects – VM Mountain, VM Houses and the 8 House. If you are on a budget or just want to experience living in one of these buildings for a few days, we suggest trying Airbnb! We had a fantastic stay in the 8 House and it was the perfect opportunity to experience living like a local. While you are in the neighborhood, be sure to take a peek at all the other new architectural masterpieces such as the Bella Sky Hotel. We love this neighborhood for its connectivity to nature with many trails, parks and public spaces!

Design

There is a certain timeless simplicity to Danish design and we cannot get enough of it! Copenhagen is filled to the brim with Danish design shops that will make you wish you could bring it all home with you. In central Copenhagen is the Strøget pedestrian shopping street which is home to Hay House. Here you will find contemporary furniture and other objects for the home in their light-filled two storey showroom which is sure to inspire you to make some changes to your own living space. While you are here be sure to check out the view! A few steps away from Hay House is Illums Bolighus, the premier hub of Danish and international design in Scandinavia. Hours can easily be spent going through their floors filled with furniture, décor, light fixtures, kitchen and bath articles and gifts. When you are here, be sure to check out the extensive Fritz Hansen display, Tom Dixon light fixtures and Normann Copenhagen homewares! Finally, spend a few hours learning about Danish design at the designmuseum. Not only will you find a room full of designer chairs on display (or as I like to call it, chair heaven), but you will learn about how the Japanese influenced Danish design!

Public Spaces

A unique aspect about Copenhagen is the many public spaces throughout the city. We are not surprised that it is the most bike able city in the world as everyone seems to be on a bike or on foot! Some of our favorite public spaces include the Copenhagen Street Food market on Paper Island. Here you can grab a bite to eat from one of the international food trucks inside the market hall then relax outside on the deck in the sun overlooking the city’s waterfront with views to the iconic Opera House. For those who love books, The Black Diamond is an extension to the Royal Library and is an architectural masterpiece in its own right with its juxtaposition of old and new. From the outside, the shiny black façade reflects the sea and sky at the harbor front and from the inside you can see the quirky maritime inspired pedestrian and cyclist bridge Cirkelbroen from your table at the café. If you get the chance, cycle out to the hip neighborhood of Nørrebro to visit Superkilen park. A celebration of diversity, BIG designed this park to exhibit interesting things from around the world such as a fountain from Morocco as well as fun pieces such as a boxing arena, octopus slide and swinging benches. Fun for those young and old!

Where would you like to visit in Copenhagen? Let us know in the comments or using the hashtag #area3designcopenhagen