We are all familiar with the Danish expertise in architecture and design. They are one of the most profound nations when it comes to excellence in designing built environments. Denmark is home to some of the world’s most innovative architecture and design firms that are leading the sector. It is incredibly exciting to witness how Danish firms are pushing boundaries and setting new standards in architecture and design. Here are 30 Best Architecture and Design Firms in Denmark:
1. C.F. Møller Architects
Established in 1924, this firm is one of the oldest and most respected in Scandinavia. They are known for their sustainable solutions and human-centric approach. The campus of Aarhus University, the UN office complex in Copenhagen, Liverpool’s new landmark in Knowledge Quarter The Spine, The Maersk Tower in Copenhagen and The Lego Campus in Billund are only a few catchy projects from their diverse portfolio.
C.F. Møller Architects is an expert in designing healthcare facilities. In collaboration with HENN, they have recently won a competition for Hanover Medical School Hospital.
2. BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group
Founded by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels in 2005, this firm became one of the most influential architecture firms over the two decades. BIG is known for its holistic approach to problem solving by involving scientists, engineers, biologists, politicians, and entrepreneurs in the creative process. Their projects are centered around the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, delivering solutions that answer the underlying needs of our planet and people. Their standout projects are the 8 House in Copenhagen, a residential building with a unique eight shape, the VIA 57 West in New York, a hybrid building combining a European urban block with an American high-rise.
One of the latest and impactful projects of BIG is Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan. You can read our article about this inspirational architecture here.
3. Henning Larsen
Founded by Danish architect Henning Larsen in 1959, they still continue to see the bigger picture. With more than 600 employees, they work across architecture, landscape, urban design, and interiors. Their design philosophy stems from being curious and striving for knowledge, creativity, and inclusivity. Their famous projects are CERN Building 777 in France, Enterprise Research Campus in Boston, USA, and Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik, Iceland.
One of their well-known project, The Wave in Vejle, Denmark, received international recognition and awards like ‘Residential Building of the Year’ by Danish trade magazine Byggeri, the ABB LEAF Award, and the Civic Trust Award.
4. Cobe
Cobe is so proudly celebrated being based in Copenhagen, as they say, “We are shaped by Copenhagen and Copenhagen is shaped by us.” Founded by Danish architect Dan Stubbergaard in 2006, Cobe gained recognition with their striking vision for future-proof architecture. They are aware of the responsibility of what the building and construction sector brings to our planet, and they aim to generate value with their projects. The ultimate reflection of their achievements for the Cobe is to elevate the existing buildings, landscapes, and cities to a higher level. They are involved in designing mobility solutions as transportation systems highly influence cities’ structure and dwellers’ behaviours.
Cobe redesigned the Nørreport Station in Copenhagen, Denmark, the busiest train station in town. It has become a model for efficient and user-friendly urban infrastructure. Other mobility projects also include Køge Nord Station, Orientkaj, and Nordhavn Metro Stations.
5. 3XN
Founded in 1986 by Kim Herforth Nielsen, 3XN has become one of Denmark’s most innovative architecture firms, known for its sculptural and sustainable designs. With a philosophy rooted in “form follows behavior,” 3XN creates buildings that not only look stunning but also enhance the way people interact with their surroundings.
Some of their standout projects include The Blue Planet in Copenhagen, Europe’s largest aquarium with a whirlpool-inspired design, and Quay Quarter Tower in Sydney, a skyscraper that reuses parts of an existing building to reduce waste. Another notable project is the Museum of Liverpool, which reflects the city’s rich history and culture.
6. Schmidt Hammer Lassen
Founded in 1986, schmidt hammer lassen is one of Denmark’s leading architectural firms, known for their commitment to democratic architecture, sustainability, and social impact. Their projects are driven by the idea that architecture should be open, inviting, and contribute to the well-being of communities.
The firm has designed some of the world’s most striking cultural and public spaces, including the Dokk1 Library in Aarhus, which is the largest public library in Scandinavia and a hub for civic life. They also designed the International Criminal Court in The Hague, an architectural expression of transparency and justice.
They recently won first place in the “Public Building (Concept)” category at the Rethinking The Future Awards 2024 with the Dordthuis project.
7. ADEPT
Founded in 2006, ADEPT is a Copenhagen-based architecture and urban planning firm known for their focus on livability, circular design, and sustainability. Their approach revolves around creating meaningful spaces that enhance everyday life while considering the long-term impact of urban development.
ADEPT has been involved in a wide range of projects, from large-scale urban masterplans to intimate public spaces. Their design school projects standout. The new Aarhus School of Architecture and Design School Kolding was shaped with ADEPT’s touch.
They received 1st prize in Ludwigshafen for their masterplan for the inner city, transforming it into a green hub. This project aims to revitalize urban spaces by integrating green infrastructure, sustainable mobility solutions, and community-focused design.
8. CEBRA
Founded in 2001, CEBRA is an Aarhus-based firm known for its playful, innovative, and human-centric designs. Their projects blend bold aesthetics with functionality, creating spaces that inspire and engage.
Standout projects include The Iceberg in Aarhus, a residential complex with a jagged, iconic design, and Villa N1, a private home that combines modern architecture with natural materials for a harmonious living experience. They also designed Experimentarium in Copenhagen, a science center with a striking copper facade and interactive exhibits.
9. Christensen & Co Architects
Their web slogan is ‘Danish architecture for learning’ so we are allowed to expect groundbreaking projects of schools, learning community buildings and hubs! They were founded in 2001 in Copenhagen, Denmark. They believe architecture has power to inspire learning, collaboration, and well-being- we certainly agree.
One of their hallmark projects is the Green Lighthouse in Copenhagen, Denmark’s first carbon-neutral public building. Green Lighthouse is where you can find and meet your people in the Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen. CCO Architects received 2 awards including the Municipality of Copenhagen’s Architecture Award in 2012 and the Innovation Award from Danish Industry in 2011.
10. Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects
Vilhelm Lauritzen once said: “There is no life without aesthetics.” And it is clearly visible in their buildings that this is the mindset. They have contributed to shaping the Danish modern architecture with projects that balances form and function since 1922. It is more than a century of creating innovative, welcoming and appealing buildings.
One of their recent success is receiving the Archello Building of the Year 2024 with the Tip of Nordø building. This commercial building became the new landmark for Copenhagen harbour. It has no back or front view, a round shaped construction with angled façade elements. This circular building reflects the sunlight thus reducing the energy consumption for cooling.
11. AART
ARRT redefines architecture with responsible acting towards positive change. Founded in 2000, AART is a Scandinavian architecture firm based in Aarhus, Denmark. Each square meter has a potential for AART, and they are striving to reach its fullest on each project. Their approach includes an ‘Impact Compass’ that helps develop the project from the initial idea to the end product.
Recently, their project Nicolinehus has been awarded the Aarhus Architecture Prize 2024 for Best Public Space. The motive behind the creation of Nicolinehus is to attract dwellers to the area and form a dynamic urban life. Nicolinehus achieves to revive the area with its residential and commercial residents and an open ground floor.
AART is also behind the Østfold Hospital in Norway, recognized for its healing architecture and patient-centered layout. They are also leading the transformation of the Bispebjerg Hospital campus with their integrated, human-first approach.
12. Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter
Founded in 1999 by Dorte Mandrup, this Copenhagen-based studio is renowned for its sculptural architecture and deep respect for context and nature. The firm is particularly celebrated for its cultural and natural heritage projects in extreme environments. The extreme environments they are working in includes Greenland, the island of Andøya, the Wadden Sea, and UNESCO protected lands. As Dorte Mandrup previously stated: “I have always been preoccupied with the creation of shapes.” this mindset continues to reveal itself in the buildings.
One of the jaw-dropping projects from this firm is The Whale in Norway. The location is home to whales during migration periods and the building salutes them with its parabolic form. Thanks to this form, it is possible to create an enormous inner space without columns. It is a great attraction for visitors and is used as an exhibition area, a café, offices and a store.
13. JDS Architects
Founded by Julien De Smedt in 2006, is a multidisciplinary office based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Their meticulous approach leads the projects to be pragmatic, efficient, and innovative. JDS Architects offer a wide range of services and has a diverse portfolio of international projects. Their international portfolio includes the floating Maritime Youth House in Copenhagen, H-Park in Hangzhou, China, Rio Olympic Port in Brazil and many more.
Their recent formation of united European architects with Coldefy (FR), CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati (IT), NL Architects (NL), and Ensamble Studio (SP) brought 1st Prize of the international competition for designing a new European Parliament building in Brussels. Their proposal was shaped around sustainable solutions and the environmental impact of the building. Large windows and hemisphere structure creates openness and transparency.
14. Primus Architects
Primus Architects was founded in 2008 by David Bülow. What sets them apart is their emphasis on emotional experiences in spatial design. Their detailed approach and understanding of materials results in the creation of buildings that offer tactile experience. Their expertise ranges from cultural institutions, housing, master planning to urban spaces.
The Culture House and Library in Allerød, Denmark is a transformation project of former Fritz Hansen furniture factory by Primus Architects. A carefully crafted roof is providing the necessary sunlight into the space. The material selection and forming the way they are stacking each other topped up with a lighting installation creates a glowing façade and spatial awareness at night.
15. EFFEKT
Effekt is a founded in 2007 as a multidisciplinary design studio based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Their name means effect in Danish and that’s what they deliver. The impact they want to create is long-lasting, social, economic and environmental. They offer a holistic approach and a global perspective into the built environment that goes beyond brief and client.
One of their most iconic projects include The Forest Tower in Camp Adventure Park in Haslev, Denmark. This tower serves as an observation tower to the preserved forest and offers a panoramic view. Another notable project by EFFEKT is the Urban Village Project. This project reimagines urban living by focusing on affordability, sustainability, and community engagement. The Urban Village Project has won several awards, including the AZ Award in 2020.
16. NORD Architects
NORD Architects is a Copenhagen-based firm founded in 2003, remarkable for their socially responsive projects. Their agendas include strategic client advising, envisioning ideal neighborhoods, constructing with a planet in mind, designing data-driven demographics, transforming the environment, and creating for educational institutions with an innovative approach.
One of their standout projects is the Centre for Cancer and Health that does not resemble a hospital at all. And this is the magic of it. The centre is welcoming and truly unique. It almost calms down the patients with its serene interior and encourages them to recover in stillness with the courtyard that was inspired by the monasteries.
They are also behind the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, the Danish Court Administration, and many more projects.
17. Rosan Bosch Studio
Founded by Dutch designer Rosan Bosch in 2011 in Copenhagen, Denmark. This studio reimagines the learning spaces all around the world. Their approach is to centralize 21st-century learning styles and design the learning environments around them.
The studio gained recognition with the Swedish Vittra School at Telefonplan. It is clearly shown with this project that children can learn and play at the same time without any compromises. The studio is basically questioning and solving the conventional school layouts. This is one of the best examples of how design can truly change the way children learn and how it can support development. Rosan Bosch Studio also designed Vittra School Brotorp.
18. Arkitema Architects
Founded by five architectural students – Lars Due, Michael Harrebek, Ole Nielsson, Erling Stadager, and Helge Tindal in 1969 with the name of Arkitektgruppen Aarhus. In 2003, they renamed their firm as we know it today: Arkitema Architects. This long-established design firm offers architectural and structural solutions that are buildable, functional, and beautiful.
Arkitema’s projects range from housing and healthcare to education, infrastructure, and urban development. The firm has worked on various strategic healthcare environments across Denmark and Sweden, such as the New Aker Hospital and the Sahlgrenska Life in Gothenburg, promoting healing through thoughtful, human-first spatial design.
They are also behind projects like the University of Copenhagen, Frederik VIII’s Palace, the Royal Danish Library in Aarhus University.
19. Lenschow & Pihlmann
Founded in 2015 by Kim Lenschow Andersen and Søren Thirup Pihlmann in Copenhagen. This young firm and young architects’ approach to architecture is playful in terms of material usage. What makes their work memorable is the emotional impact it has on the visitor and user, thanks to their spatial design awareness and effective implementations.
We can clearly identify the project House on Fanø is by Lenschow & Pihlmann. It almost feels like you are entering a room that its materials are scaled by three or four times. It invites users to touch, to feel, to linger and creates curiosity. It is boldly and self-confidently designed to make you feel that way. This approach is also visible in the project House at Mol Hills with an unapologetic use of big wooden panels throughout the space.
20. Pluskontoret Arkitekter
Founded in 1993 in Arhus, Denmark this rooted firm is always creating one slogan in mind: ‘Architecture for everyone’. Their approach is simplified as T.A.N.K, which stands for tradition & innovation, aesthetics at eye level, next generation, and construction and building technical gift. Their wide range of advising and services include sustainability consulting, energy optimization, life cycle analysis/calculation and many more.
They are working on projects in four different areas, such as housing, children, learning, and business. One of the most significant projects by Pluskontoret Arkitekter is The Quota House. As the project name implies, this project aims to lower the users’ CO2 consumption by offering them designated areas and a well-thought-out layout of the house that covers the needs for both privacy and togetherness. The Quota House also includes a vegetable garden, greenhouse, larder and drying room to encourage residents to live more environmental friendly.
21. Sweco Architects Denmark
Largest architectural company in Europe with over 1,500 architects, this firm was founded by connecting Årstiderne Arkitekter (1985) and KANT arkitekter (1977). They specialize in residential housing, education, leisure, retail, space planning, urban transformation planning, landscape architecture, and lighting design. They claim that their architecture is improving people’s well-being and health- we can clearly see that in their projects in which they balance the aesthetics and technology to create a welcoming, healthy and inclusive environment.
One of the notable projects by Sweco Architects is UN17 Village, a sustainable housing project that accommodates all SDGs. This ambitious project will transform into homes for 1,100 residents. Another worth mentioning project by Sweco Architects is the award-winning Dybkærskolen School Project. This school is a solid proof of how architecture can create stronger communities and as well as serving the purpose of education. With its carefully decided materials, colors and designed furniture, it creates a consistent and safe environment for both children and the neighbourhood.
22. Cubo
Founded in 1922 in Aarhus, Denmark, Cubo is a partner-managed design studio with approximately 60 dedicated employees. They are working in the sectors of education, healthcare, culture, and housing. Their excellence was awarded with the Nykredir Architecture Prize in 2011, one of Denmark’s most prestigious architectural awards.
One of the interesting projects by Cubo is the Aarhus Tech – Aarhus High School and Center for Hair & Style. This project is a transformation project from a 1930s Textile Factory to a modern educational facility. Cubo successfully blended the historical building with contemporary design. Another interesting project that Cubo has its signature behind is the Nordkraft Aalborg. It is transformed into Aalborg’s largest cultural center from a power plant. This old industrial complex now offers users music, sports, theatre, art, education, health and tourist center.
23. ESJA Architecture
Founded by architect Audur Hreidarsdottir, ESJA Architecture is an architectural design studio based in Copenhagen and Reykjavik. Their portfolio ranges from houses, mixed-use areas, hotels, schools, interiors, master plans, and many more. Whatever they design, their work combines craftsmanship and sensibility as well as the connection with nature and the surrounding elements.
One of ESJA Architecture’s most striking projects, where nature and design come together so well, is the Bjólfur Ring in Seydisfjordur, Iceland. This construction serves as a viewing platform for the fjord and the Atlantic Ocean. This hovering structure sits perfectly on top of the landscape and carefully placed with a 2° angle to achieve a balanced and safe path. Wherever you are in the platform, the angular design allows you to explore the surrounding view as evenly as possible. This project’s excellence was recognized with the Architizer A+ Award, Jury Selection in 2023.
24. DISSING+WEITLING
DISSING+WEITLING is a renowned Danish architecture and design firm based in Copenhagen. The firm was established in 1971 by Hans Dissing and Otto Weitling, both of whom were key partners in Arne Jacobsen’s office. After the death of Jacobsen, they founded this firm and continued his legacy. The firm still proudly follows the Nordic minimalism and Scandinavian values in architecture and design, contributing to shaping the built environment with care.
Their signature is under the many buildings and bridges around the world. Notable bridges include Lusair Bridges in Qatar, Osman Gazi Bridge in Türkiye, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Link, Bicycle Snake in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Besides bridges, their portfolio include the design of Denmark’s Nationalbank, Copenhagen University Observatory, Victoria Greenhouse, Copenhagen Congress Center, and many more.
25. MIKKELSEN Architects
Founded by Stig Mikkelsen in 2012, MIKKELSEN Architects adopts human-centered design approach and creates their projects climate in mind. The understanding of the planet’s needs, human needs, and what the materials have to offer are the key elements they consider while designing. Their expertise has been recognized with many awards, including ArchDaily Building of the Year 2024, Archello Healthcare Building of the Year 2023, Architizer A+Award 2022, and many more.
To mention their certain projects, they designed Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen (SDCC), Herlev Hospital which recieved Archello Jury Winner: Healthcare Building of the Year (2023), Thorvald Ellegaard Arena, cycling and athletics arena in Odense, which received Odense Municipality Architecture Award 2015, Rambøll Head Office in Ørestad which was recognized with DGNB Bronze Certificate.
26. SOPHUS SØBYE
This firm was founded by Sophus Søbye in 2004 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Their broad professional network allows the firm to form teams according to the project needs, resulting in solid, strong design solutions. Their services include full-scale architectural consultancy, conceptual sketches, programming, and design as well as sustainability, finance, and construction management.
Their work within the culture sector is intriguing. Youth Culture House in Tasiilaq, Greenland, is a project that was developed through the direct involvement of local children and teenagers to reflect their needs and aspirations. Another project in this sector is Mariehøj Cultural Centre. This is an example of a transformative project which the firm changed an existing cultural center into a new one. The design features a sloping roof that serves as a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape.
27. Leth and Gori
Leth and Gori was founded in 2007 by Uffe Leth and Karsten Gori in Copenhagen, Denmark. Both are architects and teachers at the Royal Danish Academy School of Architecture in Copenhagen. The studio prioritizes projects that are built to last, detailed, recognizable by its simplicity and adaptability. Their work spans from new constructions to transformation or heritage sites, with special emphasis on inventive housing solutions.
One project that answers the question of ‘What if a house can last at least five generations instead of two?’ by Leth and Gori is the Brick House in Nyborg, Denmark. The project aims to create a maintenance-free home for 50 years with a lifespan of at least 150 years. By utilizing clay blocks and bricks, the house achieves a solid, diffusion-open wall construction that allows the building to “breathe”, promoting a healthy indoor climate and reducing potential building mistakes.
28. KHR Architecture
Founded in 1946, KHR Architecture’s initials stand for the founders, who are Gunnar Krohn and E. Hartvig Rasmussen. They are known for their expertise in creating solutions tailored to the local context by drawing inspiration from around the globe. Their long-standing and established presence in architectural practices has made the firm a prominent one. Their services include sustainable architecture, education, health, commercial, residential, care homes and nursing homes, swimming pools, transformation, urban planning, ICT / BIM Management, and industrial design.
One of their standout projects, the Glasblokkene at Haukeland University Hospital in Bergen, Norway, reflects their expertise beautifully. Designed for children, youth, and women, the hospital complex demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can support healing and well-being. The project has two stages and received numerous awards, such as Hospital Building of the Year 2024 in the Archello Awards, Bergen Architecture and Urban Design Awards: Special recognition, and nominated for Construction of the Year in Norway, “Highly commended” by the European Healthcare Design Awards 2024.
29. WE Architecture
Even though it is a simple change of letters from ‘ME’ to ‘WE’, that’s how WE Architecture views the problems and finds the best possible solutions that are inclusive. Based in Copenhagen, this firm is fully aware of the architect’s role and what kind of power they possess to affect the way WE live. They are comfortable and confident with exploring even the utopic ideas along the design process and bold enough to admit it.
One of their notable projects is the design of Roskilde Campus Zealand. The project is designed to accommodate 1,500 students. This educational facility emphasizes community, respect, and durability. The campus includes flexible spaces designated for various activities, promoting both professional and social interactions among students and staff. The design provides soft, natural light, creating a more conducive learning and working environment.
30. Danielsen Architecture
Founded in 1987 in Denmark, this architectural firm centralizes functionality and usability to avoid simply building sculptures instead of living spaces. Their consultancy ranges from transformation, commercial, housing, hotel, master planning, to public, airport, and education sectors. This award-winning firm is dedicated to building applications and architecture that satisfy the real needs of its users in a creative and innovative way. The firm recently received the ‘Build Architecture Award’ in the category of ‘Best Corporate & Commercial Architecture Firm 2023 – Scandinavia’.
One of their notable projects is the Metropolis. A 45-meter-tall residential tower situated at the tip of Sluseholmen, Metropolis is distinguished by its flowing forms and light blue fiber-reinforced concrete facade. The building’s design, featuring oval windows and balconies, creates a dynamic visual presence and offers panoramic views from its rooftop terraces.
As we explored these futuristic architecture and design firms, one thing became for certain: Denmark is not only commemorating its design legacy but also with each project moving forward and reshaping the architecture sector. Their respect for nature and the environment provides a model that can be studied and implemented by architecture and design firms worldwide. After all, the built environment is responsible for nearly %40 of global carbon emissions. Designing and building more responsibly will be the key element that makes a firm a successful. If you enjoyed exploring Danish architecture firms, you may also enjoy reading about their legacy in architecture and design.
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