Frederik VIII’s Palace

Modernizing the home of Denmark's crown prince couple

Frederik VIII’s Palace is an important part of Amalienborg Castle, one of the finest Rococo architectural buildings in Denmark, of great significance to Copenhagen as well as the rest of Denmark. At the same time, the palace is a living home with associated representatives and administrative functions for Denmark's crown prince couple.
  • Slots- og Ejendomsstyrelsen
    Client
  • Erik Einar Holms Tegnestue
    Architect collaboration
  • Rambøll
    Engineer
  • Location
    Amalienborg Slotsplads, Copenhagen
  • Year
    2004 - 2010
  • Size
    4.500 m²
  • Architect
    Arkitema
Arkitema Frederiks VII Is Palæ 15 web

As a result, the transformation of the palace was very prestigious and important for contemporary generations, but also for future generations, who will continue to visit the palace. With that in mind, the task was to take the palace back to a more original expression in addition to creating a suitable and modern residence for Denmark's future royal couple.

Arkitema Frederiks VII Is Palæ 12 web

Our approach to the renovation and modernisation of the palace emphasised authenticity and the story of the many architectural eras. To find and reveal the many layers of history that the palace has and then stress and emphasise the many building historic features of the palace. We succeeded in transforming the palace into a modern home with functional working spaces that integrate contemporary functions without damaging the building historic features, rather emphasising and nurturing these features. The task included partly the interior space and partly the exterior renovation, an integrated art project focussing on the interaction between art and architecture as well as update of the gardens.

Arkitema Frederiks VII Is Palæ 11 web
The project was carried out in cooperation with Arkitema and architecture firm Erik Einar Holms Tegnestue, the crown prince couple, the Danish Palaces and Properties Agency, and the City of Copenhagen.

The crown prince couple helped select ten leading, young Danish contemporary artists for the inspirational art project, which to a high degree contributed to giving the palace a contemporary touch. For Arkitema, the task also included assistance to the crown prince couple with the interior decoration of the palace.

Arkitema Frederiks VII Is Palæ 9 web