Copenhagen, the 2023 World Capital of Architecture, has established itself in recent years as a leader in sustainable urban planning and architectural innovation.
The city is home to a large number of renowned architecture firms that embody the blend of sustainability and aesthetics.
This article invites you to discover the 13 leading Danish architectural firms and some of their flagship projects in Denmark.
1. Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)
Since its founding in 2005, the agency BIG has become a global leader in architecture. Based in
CopenHill (Amager Bakke), Copenhagen - 2019
A futuristic waste incinerator transformed into a public recreational park with a ski slope on the roof. This building symbolizes the combination of sustainable energy and urban recreation.
Awards: Green Good Design Award and Iconic Award 2021.
LEGO House, Billund - 2017
A tribute to the famous Danish brand, this playful structure combines education and entertainment in an interactive space designed to inspire future generations.
An architectural metaphor and a “mise en abyme” of the construction of a LEGO brick building that will appeal to all architects and their children.
It’s worth noting that the “Mini Chef” restaurant lets you “build” your own lunch menu using LEGO bricks.
Awards: AIA International Award 2022.
8 House, Copenhagen - 2010
Aresidential complex shaped like the number eight, combining housing, commercial spaces, and nature, celebrated for its social integration and accessible design.
Awards: Housing Building of the Year (World Architecture Festival).
2. C.F. Møller Architects
C.F. Møller Architects is synonymous with elegance and expertise in the Danish style. Founded in 1924, this firm is known for its
Carlsberg Central Office, Valby - 2020
A corporate headquarters that reflects the site’s industrial heritage, featuring a contemporary design that combines brick, glass, and sustainability.
Awards: 2021 Civic Trust Award.
Maersk Tower, Copenhagen - 2017
An extension of the University of Copenhagen’s Faculty of Medicine and Science, this 15-story tower is one of Denmark’s most energy-efficient laboratories. The surrounding landscape design—one of the capital’s most successful—was created by the SLA architectural firm. A unique feature of this project is the zigzagging “floating path” that guides pedestrians and cyclists through the different parts of the building, giving the public an opportunity to get closer to the building and the researchers.
Awards: Danish Design Award 2018.
3. COBE
COBE, founded in 2006 by Dan Stubbergaard, is an architecture firm based in Copenhagen. It is known for its ambitious projects that transform urban spaces into dynamic living environments. The firm focuses on
Paper Island, Copenhagen - 2024
A project that transforms a former warehouse into a cultural and social hub, featuring open spaces and innovative architecture. We’re looking forward to the completion of the swimming pool.
Awards: MIPIM Award 2023.
Opera Park, Copenhagen—2023
An absolutely breathtaking public park that serves as a visual bridge between the Copenhagen Opera House and the city. Long left undeveloped, this buffer zone combines biodiversity, water management, and contemporary design, while paying tribute to its patron, shipowner A.P. Møller-Mærsk, by depicting the six gardens (worlds or faunas) that his ships traverse.
“Genius loci” or not, it had been a long time since a space had stirred such strong emotions in our team.
Don’t miss the underground parking garage, which evokes the tropics with its exotic garden.
Awards: ArchDaily Building of the Year, Archiver A+ Award, and Dezeen Award 2024
The Silo, Copenhagen - 2017
The transformation of an industrial silo into a luxury residential building with a raw, modern aesthetic.
Awards: Building of the Year (ArchDaily).
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4. Henning Larsen Architects
Henning Larsen, known in Denmark as “The Master of Light,” has left his mark on the world of architecture by founding his firm in 1959, which is now recognized for its luminous and timeless designs ; The firm specializes in cultural, educational, and commercial projects and has received awards such as the Praemium Imperiale. Three of his works are presented below.
Nordø and Porten - 2023
An urban development project that combines modern housing and workspaces in a sustainable and welcoming setting.
Awards: Nordic Architecture Prize.
The Wave, Vejle - 2018
A residential building on the waterfront, inspired by the undulating motion of the waves. Here, the developer gave the architects the freedom to prioritize form over the rational use of space.
Awards: 2020 Civic Trust Award.
Don’t miss this during your visit: Fjordenhus, “The Fjord House” by Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson—a hybrid of a building and a work of art—in which he experiments with the traditional and vernacular technique of brickwork.
The Royal Danish Opera - 2004
A majestic opera house with state-of-the-art acoustics, located on the banks of Copenhagen.
Awards: 2005 LEAF Award.
5. Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects
Since 1985, Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects has established itself as a leading force in modern Danish architecture. With its elegant yet functional approach, the firm highlights
Tietgenkollegiet, Copenhagen - 2006
A student residence that embodies community and sustainability, featuring bright, welcoming shared spaces.
Awards: RIBA European Award 2007.
Axel Towers, Copenhagen - 2014
A complex of copper-and-glass towers, offering a dynamic urban space in the heart of the Danish capital.
Awards: Iconic Award 2018.
Tuborg Strandeng - 2022
A nature-friendlyresidential development, integrated into a protected coastal landscape.
Awards: Danish Landscape Award.
6. 3XN Architects
Founded in 1986, 3XN Architects is a Copenhagen-based firm whose approach focuses on human behavior and sustainability. Their philosophy combines aesthetics, functionality, and social interaction. The firm, a recipient of international awards such as the Green Good Design Award, is recognized for its innovative projects and expertise in biomimetic design. Here is a selection of their projects.
Blue Planet Aquarium, Copenhagen - 2013
A national aquarium designed in the shape of a vortex, offering a unique immersive experience, with a design that blends seamlessly into the coastal landscape.
One of the few buildings open to the public for the price of an admission ticket.
Awards: 2013 World Architecture Festival Award.
UN City, Copenhagen - 2013
The United Nations headquarters in Denmark is a LEED Platinum-certified building that showcases innovative energy-efficiency solutions.
Awards: LEED Platinum Certification, European Property Award.
Bella Sky Hotel, Copenhagen - 2011
An iconic hotel with two slanted towers connected by a skybridge, designed to maximize the panoramic view of the city.
We recommend the Sky Bar, perched 76 meters above the ground, which offers a superb introduction to Ørestad before you begin your tour.
Awards: European Hotel Design Award.
Royal Arena, Copenhagen - 2017
A multipurpose venue designed to host concerts and sporting events.
Awards: 2020 IOC IAKS Award.
7. Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects
A leading name in functional design in Denmark, the firm Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects was founded in 1922. This award-winning firm stands out for its subtle use of natural light and locally sourced materials. Here are a few examples of their most beautiful projects :
Tip of Nordo - 2023
A waterfront residential and commercial development that combines contemporary design with green spaces.
Awards: 2024 Archello Awards for Office Building and High-Rise Tower (Jury and Public Vote)
Krøyer's Square - 2016
A mixed-use project that revitalizes a historic port area with modern buildings that blend seamlessly into the surroundings.
Awards: MIPIM Award 2019.
Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen - 2021
A research and treatment center designed to promote the well-being of patients and staff, featuring bright, open spaces.
Awards: Healthcare Design Award.
8. EFFEKT Architects
EFFEKT Architects, which has been based in Copenhagen since 2007, stands out for its innovative projects that place sustainability and social interaction at the heart of its work. It is dedicated to bringing nature into cities and improving quality of life through architecture. As a recipient of the European Architecture Award, the firm embodies a committed and contemporary vision of Danish architecture. Vo Here are two of these flagship projects:
Camp Adventure Tower, Gisselfeld Kloster - 2017
A spiral observation tower, nestled in a protected forest, offering an immersive experience and breathtaking panoramic views.
Awards: ICONIC Award 2020.
Living Places - 2023
An experimental concept for sustainable housing, focused on reducing carbon emissions through innovative solutions in materials and design. This housing project demonstrates how homes can be adapted to climate change.
Awards: Green Building Award 2023.
9. Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
Founded in 1986, Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects is a firm based in Aarhus and Copenhagen, renowned for its libraries, cultural buildings, and projects of international scope. The firm focuses on creating accessible and inspiring spaces that foster human interaction. With an impressive portfolio, it has received numerous awards, including the AIA International Award, for its outstanding work. Here is an overview of some of its projects.
Dokk1, Aarhus
One of Europe’s largest public libraries, combining modern design and multipurpose spaces with a breathtaking view of the harbor.
Awards: 2016 Public Library of the Year Award.
Black Diamond, Copenhagen - 2023
An extension of the Royal Library, distinguished by its black granite facade and its light-filled atrium.
Awards: Kasper Salin Prize.
10. Dorte Mandrup
Responsible for sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the visionary and committed firm Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter has garnered attention since its founding in 1999. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, the firm balances respect for sensitive natural environments with sustainability and sculptural design. A two-time winner of the Architizer A+Award, the firm combines aesthetics with functionality. Here are three of its most remarkable projects.
Wadden Sea Center - 2022
An interpretation center designed to raise awareness of the unique Wadden Sea ecosystem, featuring architecture that blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape and vernacular building materials crafted using traditional techniques.
Awards: Several awards, including the Nordic Lighting Design Award (2018) and the Iconic Award (2017).
IKEA, Copenhagen - 2023
A store that reimagines the IKEA experience with eco-friendly design, green spaces, and seamless integration into the urban landscape.
Awards: Sustainability Award 2023.
11. Arkitema Architects
A leader in Scandinavian architecture, Arkitema Architects has been working since 1969 to develop people-centered and sustainable spaces. Based in Aarhus, the firm specializes in residential, commercial, and public projects, with a particular focus on the well-being of its users. It has received numerous awards for its user-friendly and innovative architecture. Here is an overview of its major projects.
Hotel Ottilia - 2019
A luxury hotel housed in a former brewery, blending historic elements with innovative contemporary design.
Awards: Danish Design Award 2019.
Sluseholmen - 2008
A residential neighborhood in Copenhagen, designed to foster a sense of community with canals and shared spaces.
Awards: European Urban Planning Award.
Hammershus Visitor Center - 2018
A visitor center for guests at Hammershus Castle, featuring minimalist architecture and spectacular views of the historic site.
Awards: Nordic Architecture Prize.
12. PLH Arkitekter A/S
PLH Arkitekter A/S, founded in 1977, is a Copenhagen-based firm specializing in commercial and institutional architecture. It focuses on creating inspiring workspaces and living environments. The firm has won awards such as the Danish Business Award, confirming its leadership in the field.
DFDS Global Headquarters - 2022
An innovative corporate headquarters designed to reflect the shipping company’s values, featuring collaborative workspaces and a sustainable design.
Since the building is located directly across from the DFDS ferry boarding pier, the architects included a strip window in the amphitheater that allows visitors to watch the ships depart.
A literally dizzying trompe-l’œil, creating the illusion that the ground is shaking beneath our feet, all while showcasing the ships in all their splendor. What a marvelous trick!
Awards: Building of the Year (Business Category).
Høje-Taastrup City Hall - 2022
A modern city hall designed with a focus on transparency and sustainability, featuring open spaces and abundant natural light.
Awards: Architizer A+ Award 2022.
13. NORD Architects Copenhagen
Since 2003, NORD Architects has taken a unique approach centered on the user and the user experience. Based in Copenhagen, the firm is committed to making educational and healthcare buildings a blend of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, both nationally and internationally. . NORD Architects knows how to bring complex projects to life in a way that is both welcoming and functional. Here are two projects that perfectly illustrate the firm’s expertise:
Center for Cancer and Health. - 2009
A center designed to provide a warm and soothing environment for cancer patients, incorporating natural materials and green spaces.
Awards: WAN Healthcare Award.
The European School - 2015
A modern international school that fosters collaborative learning and openness through its bright and welcoming architecture.
Awards: MIPIM Award 2021.
Denmark: A Blend of Sustainable and Innovative Architecture
Denmark has successfully guided the urban development of its cities by prioritizing innovation, sustainability, people, and aesthetics. This strategy has encouraged local firms to evolve in this direction and has helped establish Danish architecture and design as an international benchmark.
In Denmark, buildings do more than just meet the needs of their users: they redefine urban space and become symbols of ethical, forward-looking architecture. Copenhagen is not just another capital city; it is a true source of inspiration for architecture and sustainable urban development worldwide.
At NORDIC INSITE, we have been organizing study trips to Copenhagen for professionals in the fields of architecture and urban planning for over 10 years. We provide access to a network of local firms and professionals in architecture and urban development. This is an opportunity for participants to explore the Danish capital and draw inspiration from it, guided by industry professionals. If you’re interested, please don’t hesitate to contact us—we’d be delighted to introduce you to the many sources of inspiration that Copenhagen—and, more broadly, Scandinavia—has to offer.
