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The Audo · Copenhagen, Denmark

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Name: Menu · Norm Architects
Project: The Audo
Images: Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen
Words: Steph Wade

Danish design brand MENU has collaborated with renowned architecture studio Norm Architects to create a hybrid hotel and concept store. ‘The Audo’ consists of 10 refined boutique hotel suites, a café, restaurant, co-working space, concept store, and MENU’s headquarters.

The new venue occupies a century-old building in Copenhagen’s Nordhavn district, a Neo-Baroque residence featuring original architectural elements—Norm Architects determined to preserve its façade in tribute to the building’s historic character. Inside, newly designed spaces are filled with a gallery of artworks and design objects; the creative direction was led by Kinfolk’s co-founder Nathan Williams, who was brought on board to ensure that the design reflected the ‘The Audo’s ethos. “Working on the identity of the space and concept, we’ve been drawing on traditional norms of good design in order to connect the refined, modern interiors with the history of the building,” explains Norm Architects’ partner Peter Eland.

The sophisticated, earth-toned suites on the top floor are uniquely designed; each is refurbished with terracotta plaster walls and Dinesen oak floorboards, and filled with custom furniture and interior design objects—including white boucle sofas, marble coffee tables, and richly-colored velvet and leather armchairs. Downstairs, the grey-scale monolithic marble bar and concierge area is complemented with bespoke paintings by Portland-based artist Benjamin Ewing, and serves cocktails and tapas at any hour. Guests are encouraged to bring their drinks into the store or laze on the terrace in the courtyard.