Celebrating Danish Architecture

Celebrating Danish Architecture 

Denmark has long stood at the forefront of architecture, with a design language that combines function, beauty, and deep respect for people and place. At Hørning, we believe in celebrating the architects who shape the spaces where we live, work, and gather. While we haven’t collaborated with all of these firms directly, their work continues to inspire us and countless others.

Here’s a short tribute to five of the most influential Danish architecture studios today - plus a few honourable mentions worth knowing.

1. BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group

Known for: Bold, unconventional forms and visionary urban concepts.
With a philosophy rooted in "hedonistic sustainability," BIG has become one of the world’s most renowned firms, blending innovation and playfulness in every design.
Notable projects: 8 House, CopenHill, The Twist (Norway).

2. DISSING+WEITLING

Known for: Sleek infrastructure, modernist heritage, and functional precision.
Notable projects: ECCO Hotel & Conference Centre, Great Belt Bridge.
As inheritors of Arne Jacobsen's legacy, Dissing+Weitling deliver elegant, technically impressive projects that connect people and places.

3. C.F. MØLLER ARCHITECTS

Known for: Human-centred design, sustainability, and large-scale public projects.
Notable projects: Maersk Tower, Aarhus University Hospital, Fjordporten - Nordic Light.
One of Scandinavia’s oldest and most respected practices, their designs merge Nordic tradition with cutting-edge innovation.

4. HENNING LARSEN

Known for: Daylight-driven design, cultural buildings, and global reach.
Notable projects: Harpa Concert Hall (Iceland), Moesgaard Museum, Eystur Town Hall (Faroe Islands).
Henning Larsen's work feels both grand and grounded, often shaped by local context and community needs.

5. VILHELM LAURITZEN ARCHITECTS

Known for: Functionalist roots and creating modern architecture that is human-centred and enduring.
Notable projects: Copenhagen Airport, New North Zealand Hospital,The Danish Embassy in Washington D.C.
Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects shape contemporary architecture with strong focus on innovation and social value.

Honourable Mentions

3XN – For curving, innovative buildings like the UN City in Copenhagen.

COBE – For bold, people-first urban interventions like Israels Plads in Copenhagen.

Arkitema – For residential and educational projects that blend seamlessly into the Nordic landscape.

ADEPT – For clean-lined, sustainable architecture with a human focus.

Whether through direct collaboration or admiration from afar, Hørning celebrates the minds behind Denmark’s most inspiring architecture. Their projects push boundaries and invite us all to build with greater care and purpose.