The SAS Royal Hotel, designed by the esteemed Danish architect Arne Jacobsen, stands as a masterpiece of modernist architecture and a testament to Jacobsen's visionary approach. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, this iconic hotel has become an integral part of the city's skyline since its completion in 1960.
Arne Jacobsen's design philosophy revolved around the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk, where every element of a space is meticulously considered to create a harmonious whole. This philosophy is beautifully exemplified in the SAS Royal Hotel, where Jacobsen not only designed the building's exterior but also crafted every detail of its interior, including furniture, lighting, textiles, and even cutlery.
The façade of the hotel is a striking example of Jacobsen's minimalist aesthetic. The sleek, clean lines and the use of reflective glass give the building a sense of timeless elegance. The symmetrical layout reflects Jacobsen's meticulous attention to detail, while the use of horizontal elements adds a sense of visual stability.
Stepping into the interior of the hotel is like entering a carefully curated world where form follows function. Jacobsen's furniture designs, such as the iconic Swan and Egg chairs, grace the lobby and public spaces, seamlessly blending with the architectural elements. The colors and materials used throughout the interior, including the warm woods and rich textiles, create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
One of the standout features of the SAS Royal Hotel is the spiral staircase that anchors the lobby. Jacobsen designed this helical structure to be a focal point and a work of art in itself. Its elegant form and flowing lines invite guests to ascend to the upper floors, where they are treated to breathtaking views of the city.
Not content with just the building's structure and interior, Jacobsen also designed the hotel's fixtures and fittings. From the doorknobs to the light switches, every element is a testament to his meticulous attention to detail. Even the typography used in signage and menus was carefully selected and designed to create a cohesive visual language throughout the hotel.
Throughout its existence, the SAS Royal Hotel has remained true to Jacobsen's original vision, with careful preservation and renovations ensuring that the spirit of his design continues to shine. It has become more than just a hotel; it is an architectural landmark that represents the pinnacle of Scandinavian modernism.
Today, the SAS Royal Hotel still stands as a testament to Arne Jacobsen's design philosophy, inspiring architects and designers around the world. Its timeless elegance