Copenhagen is a veritable mecca for design aficionados. From modernist classics to cutting-edge conversation pieces, there are plenty of unique (and tempting) elements for a stylish interior to be found in Denmark’s capital. Whether you’re in the mood to learn or purchase, here are in our opinion the best eight places to visit on your design tour of Copenhagen.
Normann Copenhagen
Located in the Osterbo district, this former movie theater’s 18,000 square feet of space is filled with home furniture and accessories by top Scandinavian and global designers (there’s a heavy Italian influence as well). If you’re looking for chic, timeless, and clever designs, you’re sure to find them here.
Illums Bolighus
From big names in Scandinavian design (think Georg Jensen, Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto, Finn Juhl) tonewcomers on the global design scene, Illums Bolighus carries some of the finest (and most expensive) modernist and contemporary furniture and accessories in the city. International shoppers, be on the lookout for Illums Bolighus in Oslo and Stockholm, too.
Designer Zoo
Designer Zoo is comprised of studios of contemporary working designers and a shop where their pieces can be purchased. The stunning, light-filled boutique is filled to the brim with beautiful art (and functional) glass, ceramics, wooden home accessories, furniture, lamps, etc. This is a shop and workspace for different designers, who produce furniture, glassware, ceramics, etc. The designers themselves take turns working the shop, so you may even have the chance to meet an up-and-coming design star. (See feature image on top)
Designmuseum Danmark
Designmuseum Danmark (formerly The Danish Museum of Art & Design) is the perfect place to brush up on your Scandinavian aesthetic history (and present!). This exhibition and research forum focuses both on industrial design and applied arts from throughout Scandinavia. In addition to providing a chance for visitors to experience fascinating design first-hand, the museum also endeavors to educate the public about contemporary design through lecture series and classes. Be sure to visit the on-site café that serves delicious food and, of course, the irresistible gift shop (full of plenty of design-heavy goodies that will fit in your suitcase).
Hay House
This relatively new furniture and accessories studio has taken the international design world by storm (they are currently selling in over 20 countries). Hay House’s shop is full of minimalist yet cheerful furniture as well as accessories with a global flare in a variety of colors. It’s the perfect place to find a distinctive piece of Danish design for your home.
Stilleben
This small but mighty design boutique is packed with singular home accessories (think colorful ceramics, glassware, dishes, clocks, lamps, statuettes, throw pillows, rugs, candlesticks and other décor and functional items). Stilleben also carries jewelry from top international designers. With all of the suitcase-friendly sized pieces, it’s a great place to do your souvenir shopping.
Dansk (Danish) Design Center
The Danish Design Center is a great place to discover the work of new designers. In addition to the gallery and research center, the building (designed by architect Henning Larsen) also has dedicated exhibition space (rotating exhibitions typically feature a variety of international designers’ pieces that correspond to a particular theme – check the website to see what will be showing when you visit), a café, and a gift shop carrying ingenious multifunctional travel items (with sleek playful designs, of course).
Casa Shop
If Casa Shop doesn’t scratch your design itch, I’m not sure what will. This well-curated shop carries stunning furniture and delightful home accessories by a variety of Scandinavian and international designers (including lots of Italian, French and Indian designs). If you’re anything like me, you’ll have a hard time not taking home a piece or two.
