Since its inception in 2013 within a Nordhavn warehouse, 3daysofdesign has evolved into a pivotal event on the global design calendar. Year after year, it remains a beacon for emerging talents, a spotlight for industry leaders, and a catalyst for discussions that drive design innovation forward.
This year’s theme, ‘DARE TO DREAM’, echoes the festival’s founding ambition to provide a platform for visionaries to realise their dreams through community and connection. Anchored by thoughtfully curated exhibitions, a kaleidoscope of installations, talks, and interactive workshops, 3daysofdesign seamlessly blends innovation with Danish design tradition.
Undoubtedly, this vibrant celebration solidifies Copenhagen’s position as a premier global design hub. As the city buzzes with excitement, the atmosphere becomes palpable. Join us as we dive into a selection of must-see exhibitions and events at the upcoming 3daysofdesign 2024.
The ‘Crafting Classics’ by &Tradition for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of &Tradition
&Tradition presents ‘Crafting Classics’
District: Kongens Nytorv
Founded in 2010 in Copenhagen, &Tradition is an international brand, built on a Danish legacy of craftsmanship and design that tells stories with originality. Introducing new products and a new classic designer to their roster, attendees will be guided through a collection infused with character and unique expression, reaffirming their commitment to preserving icons of the past whilst creating the classics of tomorrow. For those needing a little refresher, dine as part of their Quarter Past Noon community in the Lille Petra café, featuring a menu inspired by their travels around the globe.
The ‘Crafting Classics’ by &Tradition for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of &Tradition
‘Crafting the Present’ by Fredericia Furniture for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Fredericia
Fredericia Furniture presents ‘Crafting the Present’
District: Vor Frue Kirke
Since 1911, Fredericia has been synonymous with beautiful craftsmanship and innovative design. Discover new and reintroduced creations from designers such as Jasper Morrison, Barber Osgerby, Damian Williamson, Nanna Ditzel, Kaare Klint, and Børge Mogensen. Their exhibition, ‘Crafting the Present’, provides a firsthand experience of artisanal techniques that contribute to the creation of their celebrated designs. Explore their extensive range with Scandinavian artisans showcasing the tools, people, and processes behind some of their most renowned pieces.
The ‘Shine A Light’ exhibition in the Audo Copenhagen showroom and concept store | Photography courtesy of Audo Copenhagen
‘Crafting the Present’ by Fredericia Furniture for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Fredericia
The Audo
District: Nordhavn
The Audo is an interesting combination of hotel, café, restaurant, store, showroom and office space. Under the theme ‘Shine A Light’, this year’s exhibition celebrates Nordic roots and the arrival of Scandinavia’s summer light. Collaborating with @notedesignstudio, The Audo introduces a revitalised Audo House, showcasing its timeless beauty in a new light. The Audo will also reveal line extensions and new designs for its collection while showcasing the iconic Tired Man by Flemming Lassen in a new material and colour.
Don’t miss the Courtyard Gathering on June 7th, where chilled summer drinks will be served between 4-6 pm.
The ‘Shine A Light’ exhibition in the Audo Copenhagen showroom and concept store | Photography courtesy of Audo Copenhagen
The ‘Shine A Light’ exhibition in the Audo Copenhagen showroom and concept store | Photography courtesy of Audo Copenhagen
Natural Material Studio
District: Refshalevej
Natural Material Studio aims to transform the discourse of design for equal synergies between humans, nature, and space. Through materials, the studio is proposing a new design typology and terminology based on systemic methodologies. For this year’s installation during 3daysofdesign, Natural Material Studio wants to investigate how can the design process evolve, while challenging belief in capitalistic systems. Since when and why did our homes become a commodity, and why are people so driven by an idealistic picture of home? As a synergetic dream, the studio proposes an abstract view into a hypothetical future of fluidity. Through a sensorial and hyper-materialistic installation, the studio aims to blur the boundaries between art and design, fact and fiction, inside and outside, human and material, to explore and open up our understanding of design.
‘A Material Transition’ at Architect@Work by Natural Material Studio | Photography by Peter Vinther
Fritz Hansen presents ‘Islands of Wellbeing’
District: Holmen
Established in Denmark in 1872, Fritz Hansen has become a global leader in indoor and outdoor furniture, lighting, accessory design, and production. At 3daysofdesign, they present “Islands of Wellbeing,” a celebration of extraordinary design and architecture featuring outdoor lounge areas, novelties, previews, expert panel talks, events, and more.
Located in Operaparken, Væksthuset, and Papirøen, Fritz Hansen’s exhibitions reflect the interconnectedness of design and architecture, offering visitors an immersive experience in outdoor lounging, welcoming hospitality, and inspiring workplace environments.
‘Islands of Wellbeing’ by Fritz Hansen for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Fritz Hansen
‘Islands of Wellbeing’ by Fritz Hansen for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Fritz Hansen
‘Islands of Wellbeing’ by Fritz Hansen for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Fritz Hansen
Kvadrat Acoustics presents ‘Exploring the Power of Acoustics’
District: Nordhavn
Kvadrat was established in Denmark in 1968 and has deep roots in Scandinavia’s world-famous design tradition. Discover Kvadrat Acoustics at 3daysofdesign as they unveil their Design Workshop in Nordhavn. This workshop has been integral to their evolution from startup to global leader in textile and acoustic solutions. It’s a creative hub where ideas come to life through sight, touch, and sound. Guided by Jean Prouvé’s ethos, they innovate to realise architects’ visions. Join Design Director Jesper Nielsen for an immersive talk about acoustic comfort. In small groups, Kvadrat Acoustics will explore room acoustics first-hand, as they will experiment with different acoustic treatment strategies and discuss their impact.
The Kvadrat Acoustics Design Workshop | Photography courtesy of Kvadrat Acoustics
HAY for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of HAY
HAY
District: Kongens Nytorv
Established in Copenhagen in 2002, HAY is committed to crafting contemporary furniture, lighting, and accessories for modern living. Experience a new take on HAY House during 3daysofdesign and immerse yourself in a series of product installations as the brand presents its latest launches and previews of upcoming collections by Marc Morro, Stefan Scholten, Muller Van Severen, Naoto Fukasawa, and more. Renowned for their innovative and captivating presentations, HAY consistently delivers experiences that captivate attendees.
HAY for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of HAY
The Material Way for 3daysofdesign celebrates holistic and nature-minded design | Photography courtesy of The Material Way
The Material Way
District: Refshaleøen
The Material Way is a new collaborative platform for material-based studies focused on supporting curious creators who strive to craft a more holistic, local, and nature-minded future. During 3daysofdesign, The Material Way unveils bio-based objects & materials crafted by students exploring the intersections of research, ceramics, art, and design. Hosted amidst the green oasis of Øens Have in the RefshaleØen district, this exhibition promises an experimental approach to design, pushing the boundaries of traditional exhibition concepts.
Design / Dialogue presents Breakfast Talks with Vaarnii and Faye Toogood
District: Amerikakaj
“Design / Dialogue” showcases the collaborative efforts of 20 international design brands and artists, including Tom Fereday, Toni Copenhagen, Wästberg, and more. Experience a series of thought-provoking conversations, such as a dialogue with Faye Toogood and Vaarnii, moderated by the local Copenhagen-based design studio Ahm & Lund. Join them for coffee and discussions on topics such as ‘how to create a truly sustainable furniture brand today’ and ‘the design processes behind Vaarnii’s brutally sophisticated pine objects’, followed by a Q&A session.
Vaarnii’s new furniture collection on display at Design / Dialogue for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of Vaarnii
‘Tactile Encounters’ by GUBI for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of GUBI
GUBI presents ‘Tactile Encounters’
District: Nordhavn
Positioned at the point where the beauty of history meets the thrill of right now, GUBI is the creative force and curator behind the world’s most extraordinary design from the 20th century onwards. Gubi invites visitors to discover and explore the intersection of colour and texture – the point where shade and surface meet, and the emotions they inspire as a result. Alongside new furniture and lighting editions from the likes of Pierre Paulin and Mathieu Matégot, GUBI unveils fresh material thinking from contemporary studios including Vibeke Fonnesberg Schmidt and GamFratesi in a colourful and graphic display. Collaborations with Dedar and Sørensen Leather showcase tactile textile and leather installations, while surplus fabric collaborations with Unicef support children worldwide.
‘Tactile Encounters’ by GUBI for 3daysofdesign | Photography courtesy of GUBI
The Louis Poulsen PH5 Anniversary Edition pendant | Photography courtesy of Louis Poulsen
Louis Poulsen presents ‘150 Years of Light’
District: Holmen
Founded in 1874, the Danish lighting manufacturer Louis Poulsen creates products that encompass the duality of design and light. Every detail in the design has a purpose. Every design starts and ends with light. As part of 3daysofdesign, Louis Poulsen presents a special celebration of their 150th anniversary, offering an exploration of their rich heritage in exceptional lighting design. The exhibition will feature a stunning art installation titled ‘A Heart of Light’ by Frederik Nystrup-Larsen and Oliver Sundqvist, inviting visitors to experience the transformative power of light in design.
