The imposing building now housing the Villa Copenhagen hotel in the heart of the Danish capital was once the city’s Central Post & Telegraph Head Office, built in Neo Baroque style in 1912. Today it is a contemporary, sophisticated eco-friendly hotel which combines grand architecture with sleek, sophisticated but understated Danish style.
‘Conscious luxury’ is how the Villa describes the inspiration behind the property, which opened officially in June 2020. The term refers to the hotel’s commitment to sustainability which does not compromise on luxurious touches. For example the Villa’s stunning outdoor swimming pool – the only one in Copenhagen -is heated by the excess heat from cooling systems. The hotel has invested in using local brands and has a no-waste approach to food.
Elegant but not daunting, first impressions on entering the hotel are of space and light. A huge atrium gives an immediate sense of calm when stepping off the busy street. Formerly open to the sky, the courtyard area is covered with a glass roof stretching over the tables, chairs and sofas and creates a conservatory-style space where visitors and locals alike are relaxing, working or chatting over coffee and cocktails.
Danish fine jewellery brand Shamballa Jewels was involved in the hotel design, an influence visible in the courtyard lights here which hang like precious pearl bracelets from the ceiling. Their touch is also seen in elegant details around the property including the magnificent Old Boardroom decorated with hand painted wallpaper. Scandinavian hotelier Petter Stordalen was the brains behind the hotel which has an extensive modern art collection throughout.