Danish Architecture Center (DAC): So Danish! The story of Danish architecture in one place

This year Copenhagen is named UNESCO World Capital Architecture. But why does Danish architecture look the way it does? And why do the Danish architects of today play such a prominent role in the global architecture scene? With the exhibition So Danish!, Danish Architecture Center (DAC) tells the story of Danish architecture through time.

Architecture has always played a central role in Danish society, influencing the intellectual pursuits, cultural understanding, and common future of the Danes. However, the story of Danish architecture has continued to develop, and today there is almost as much to say about the future, as there is to be said of the past. So Danish! delves into both aspects and represents Danish Architecture Center’s first permanent architecture exhibition.

A tribute to Verner Panton. Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

Since March 2023, visitors have been able to go on a journey through Denmark’s architectural history, from the Viking Age to today. Along it, they discover some of the elements that revolutionised Danish architecture, such as the brick. The technique was not Danish, and it was far from new, but when brick construction finally took hold in Europe and Denmark in the 1100s, it marked the start of a new epoch of the Danish tradition. Since then, the brick has defined the expression in Danish architecture right up to today.

Give Jan Gehl’s chair a try. Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

From bricks to Arne Jacobsen and Jørn Utzon – when you visit the So Danish! exhibition, you will discover iconic masterpieces and lesser-known architecture that have defined Denmark. You will also gain insight into how a new generation of architects is helping to shape the sustainable society of the future. If you are visiting DAC, you might also want to visit the Copenhagen in Common exhibition. It tells the story of Copenhagen’s strong tradition of focusing on communities and public involvement.

Danish Architecture Center in BLOX. Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

Web: www.dac.dk

Danish Arcitecture Center (DAC) is an international cultural attraction for anyone who wants to experience and understand how architecture and design create the framework for our lives. DAC is based in the heart of Copenhagen, by the inner harbour, in the spectacular building BLOX.

Copenhagen in Common: 4 May 2023 – 25 February 2024
So Danish!: Permanent exhibition.

Danish Architecture Center (DAC)
Bryghuspladsen 10, 1473 Copenhagen
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm daily, Thursdays until 9pm.