Designmuseum Danmark reopens after two-year renovation

It’s been nearly a decade since my first trip to Copenhagen, and where might you ask was the very place I began my love affair with this incredible city? The Designmuseum Danmark of course, and why this summer I’ve been super excited about their reopening following a major renovation.

As Denmark’s largest museum for Danish and international design and art, Designmuseum Danmark first opened its doors back in 1895 on what is now H.C. Andersens Boulevard, before moving in 1926 to its current location.

This fine rococo building, and former hospital, was built in the 18^th century during the reign of King Frederik V, before being adapted into a museum by the architects Ivar Bentsen and Kaare Klint.

But, when back in 2020 the COVID crisis forced cultural venues around the world to close for a prolonged period, Designmuseum Danmark took the opportunity to use this time to secure the future of this unique and historic building with a comprehensive restoration.

Over the two years that followed, approximately 3,000 square metres of flooring throughout the museum was excavated and secured, thanks to damage caused by steam-based underfloor heating laid the 1920s.

Every tile in the listed floor was then re-laid according to the original drawings and measurements found in the museum’s archives following the installation of a new energy-friendly heating system.

Meanwhile, outside decorations on the building’s facades, as well as the fence towards Amaliegade, which are carved in Gotland sandstone, were painstakingly returned to their former glory.

Now, alongside the finest example of Kaare Klint’s interior design work, the amazing Format Eatery, a dedicated design shop, and picturesque museum garden, visitors can enjoy eight exciting new exhibitions as well as explore several additional audience spaces.

I for one cannot wait to set foot back inside one of my favourite destinations again.