Top 5 Design & Architecture Spots to Discover in Copenhagen

2023 is the year of architecture in Copenhagen. And whilst there are plenty of newcomers on the architectural scene, why not start your grand tour of man-made masterpieces with this one: Grundtvig's Church. Built over a span of 20 years and inaugurated in 1940, this monumental brick building appears out of nowhere with its Gothic façade in Copenhagen's Bispebjerg district. Architect Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint was heavily inspired by Gothic architecture and proportions - a long, narrow nave, impressive high ceilings and columns rising to the arches. Yet, it's the combination of Gothic elements and a more minimalist, modern aesthetic with the use of 6 million yellow bricks and the striking lack of ornamentation that leave visitors in awe.

As if the designer himself just left the premises, Finn Juhl's House as part of the Ordrupgaard Collection is no ordinary museum visit. This functionalist home, designed by Juhl in 1942, is one of the very few houses from the architect, mostly famed for his work as a furniture designer. Juhl (1912-1989) was one of Denmark's most prominent thinkers in design, and inside the home where he lived, his sculptural, colorful furniture designs are accompanied by the works of some of his peers and personal friends: artworks by Danish artist Vilhelm Lundstrøm, the iconic Radiohus pendant by Vilhelm Lauritzen, and many more. Here, modernist architecture, design and art come together to create a pocket in time and a memorable visit for any design aficionado.

You might think you've gotten lost when making your way to Michelin-restaurant Alouette. Located in the backyard of a former pencil factory, neighbors to the restaurant count multiple rock music studios and workshops. However, after getting into the graffiti-covered lift - the only way to access the restaurant - and entering the restaurant, there's no doubt that you're in the right place. This welcoming space was designed by Københavns Møbelsnedkeri, a successful carpentry studio located downstairs. American chef Nick Curtin and Danish Camilla Hansen are the dynamic duo behind one of the most refined meals in Copenhagen, and the open kitchen offers a 5-course menu constantly changing with the seasons. Curtin's kitchen draws inspiration from the many cuisines of the USA, as well as his time in some of Copenhagen's best restaurants including Noma. There is no dogma; what matters is quality ingredients and a relationship with local suppliers. Dishes are balanced and flavored to perfection - the sauces and the use of open fire are highlights.

An icon of Danish design, Radisson Collection Royal Hotel Copenhagen is the world's first design hotel and the only hotel designed by Danish architect Arne Jacobsen. Recently renovated by Danish design studio Space Copenhagen, this centrally-located building is now an updated icon of 1960s modernism. Jacobsen worked with a 'Gesamtkunstwerk' approach, designing every element from door handles to textile curtains and lights. No detail was left untouched, and the omnipresent question in Space Copenhagen's renovation has been - 'What would the master himself have done?'. The result is a modern hotel with respect for history and the recreation of original elements that were lost in previous upgrades over the years; such as the leather-wrapped handrails and original wood paneling as seen in vintage photographs. Many of Jacobsen's iconic furniture like the Egg and Swan chairs were created especially for the hotel, and inside the preserved suite 606, everything still stands just how Jacobsen intended it to.

As for the year of architecture in Copenhagen, there's a wide array of events you can join around town during 2023. Some highlights include a Guided Architecture Bike Tour focused on the city’s human-centered architecture and urban planning (bikes and helmets available on site). Another is the walking tour of world-famous architect Arne Jacobsen's buildings in coastal towns Klampenborg and Skovshoved north of Copenhagen. Our final suggestion is the Danish Design Tour; a walking tour commencing at the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel Copenhagen, taking you through both green and urban cityscapes, and visiting design shops showcasing all in Danish design from porcelain and typography to bicycles and fashion. Find out more in our blog about Danish architecture and design in Copenhagen.