Danish design: gems of Scandinavian architecture

Danish design: gems of Scandinavian architecture

April 11, 2025

Danish design is synonymous with elegance, functionality and minimalism. Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a veritable treasure trove of architectural gems that reflect the Scandinavian design philosophy. In this article, we will take you on a journey through three unique places that are the essence of Danish design and architecture. From the royal splendor of Amalienborg to the historic The Round Tower to the modern Danish Architecture Center, each of these places offers a unique experience and insight into Danish design culture. Get ready for a fascinating journey through the centuries of architectural innovation that have shaped the face of modern Copenhagen.

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Amalienborg - a royal residence as an architectural masterpiece

Our journey through the gems of Danish design begins with Amalienborg, the official residence of the Danish royal family. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, this impressive palace complex is not only a symbol of the monarchy, but also an outstanding example of Rococo architecture. Amalienborg consists of four identical palaces, surrounding an octagonal square, which creates a harmonious and symmetrical urban composition.

The Amalienborg palaces, designed by architect Nicolai Eigtved in the 18th century, are an excellent example of the Danish approach to design - elegant but not overly ornate. The facades of the buildings, made of sandstone, are decorated with Corinthian columns and triangular pediments, which emphasize the classical aesthetic. Inside the palaces, you'll find richly decorated interiors that combine Rococo elements with a more subdued Danish style.

One of the most distinctive elements of the complex is the equestrian statue of Frederick V, which dominates the central square. This monumental sculpture, created by French artist Jacques Saly, is considered one of the finest works of sculptural art in Denmark.

Amalienborg is not just a monument, but a living place that continues to play an important role in the life of the Danish monarchy. The spectacular changing of the guard of the royal guard can be observed here every day at 12:00, which is an additional attraction for visitors.

What sets Amalienborg apart from other royal residences in Europe? First of all, its accessibility to the public. Parts of the palaces are open to the public, allowing visitors to learn more about the history and culture of the Danish monarchy. The Amalienborg Museum offers fascinating exhibitions showcasing the life of the royal family over the centuries.

It is worth noting that Amalienborg is not only a tourist attraction, but also an important part of the national identity of the Danes. The palace complex is a testament to the country's rich history and architectural evolution. For lovers of architecture and design, Amalienborg provides an excellent starting point for understanding how the Danish aesthetic has evolved over the centuries, combining European influences with local traditions.

The Round Tower - a historic architectural innovation

The next stop on our journey through Danish design is The Round Tower (Rundetaarn), which is a fascinating example of innovative thinking in 17th century architecture. Located in the heart of Copenhagen's old city, this unique building is not only a monument, but also a testament to Danish engineering genius.

The Round Tower was built between 1637 and 1642 at the behest of King Christian IV, known for his love of architecture and science. The tower was to serve as an astronomical observatory, a university library and a student church. What sets the building apart is its unique internal structure - instead of a traditional staircase, a 209-meter-long spiral ramp leads to the top of the tower.

This innovative design had a practical purpose - it allowed heavy astronomical equipment to be transported to the top of the tower using horses. Today, the same ramp allows visitors to comfortably climb to the viewing platform, which offers a panoramic view of Copenhagen.

The architecture of The Round Tower combines Renaissance and Baroque elements, making it a unique example of Danish style from the era of Christian IV. The tower's exterior facade, made of red brick, is decorated with white stripes and gold lettering, giving it a distinctive look.

The inside of the tower is just as fascinating as its exterior. Halfway to the top is a library, which now serves as a gallery and exhibition space. At the top of the tower, in addition to a viewing platform, there is also a historic astronomical observatory, which is still used by amateur astronomers.

The Round Tower, compared to the Amalienborg, represents a completely different aspect of Danish design - functionality combined with innovation. While Amalienborg impresses with its regal elegance, The Round Tower impresses with the simplicity and practicality of its design.

Interestingly, The Round Tower, like Amalienborg, is open to the public, offering visitors not only stunning views, but also an interactive experience of history and science. The tower regularly hosts art and science exhibitions, making it a dynamic place that combines the past with the present.

For families visiting Copenhagen, The Round Tower is an excellent attraction. Children will enjoy the opportunity to 'climb' up the spiral ramp, while parents will appreciate the educational aspect of their visit. It's worth mentioning that the tower is open all year round, offering a variety of experiences depending on the season and events held.

Danish Architecture Center - the modern face of Danish design

The last, but not least, stop on our journey through Danish design is the Danish Architecture Center (DAC). This modern venue is the perfect conclusion to our journey, combining the history of Danish architecture with its latest trends and innovations.

The Danish Architecture Center, located in the heart of Copenhagen, is not only a museum, but also a living laboratory of architecture and design. The building that houses the center is itself an example of contemporary Danish architecture - it is a former port warehouse that has been transformed into a modern exhibition and educational space.

The center offers a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions that showcase various aspects of Danish and international architecture. From mock-ups of historic buildings to futuristic urban designs, the DAC provides a comprehensive view of the evolution of Danish design from Viking times to the present day.

One of the most fascinating elements of the DAC is the interactive 'My Copenhagen' exhibition, which allows visitors to design their own version of the city of the future. It's a great opportunity for families to explore urban sustainability and innovative architectural solutions together.

The Danish Architecture Center stands out from other museums for its approach to education. It offers numerous workshops, lectures and educational programs for children and adults, making it an ideal place for families interested in architecture and design.

Compared to Amalienborg and The Round Tower, DAC represents the most contemporary face of Danish design. While Amalienborg shows royal elegance and The Round Tower historical innovation, DAC focuses on the future and sustainability.

Interestingly, DAC also offers great views of the city from its rooftop, an interesting alternative to The Round Tower's viewing platform. From the DAC's terrace, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of modern Copenhagen, including the innovative architectural designs that are shaping the modern face of the city.

For families visiting Copenhagen, the DAC provides the perfect place to complete a journey through Danish design. Children can participate in interactive workshops, while parents can explore the theoretical aspects of Danish architecture. What's more, the center has a café and a design store, allowing visitors to relax and purchase souvenirs.

In conclusion, the Danish Architecture Center not only presents the history and present of Danish design, but also actively shapes its future. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, offering visitors a unique look at how design and architecture influence our daily lives and urban spaces.

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