Architectural Renewal

Restoring a Masterpiece

In the heart of Copenhagen stands one of Denmark’s most iconic buildings: the National Bank of Denmark, designed by legendary architect Arne Jacobsen in 1971. The monumental structure represents the final modernist masterpiece in Jacobsen’s prolific career. Defined by its clean lines, tactile materiality and architectural clarity, the building is a benchmark of modernist restraint - and a proud chapter in Danish architectural history.

Today, over 50 years later, the National Bank is undergoing an extensive restoration. Not a reinvention, but a careful, respectful revival. As a listed building, every detail of the original design must be honoured - and that includes the floors.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Back in the beginning, Hørning supplied a total of 14,000 square metres of Doussie wood flooring - a rich, reddish hardwood known for its durability, warmth and unmistakable grain. A material originally used by Arne Jacobsen and characterised by both its aesthetic quality and technical performance. 

Our first foreman, Karl Skov, was directly involved in discussions with Arne Jacobsen and later with Dissing+Weitling during the production, focusing on the grading expression of the Doussie wood. A key topic was the natural presence of yellow deposits in the pores, which Skov explained was an inherent feature of the species. Following their discussions, Jacobsen came to accept these traces as a natural and unavoidable part of the material’s character.

A reconstruction of a floor like this, that forms part of Denmark's built heritage, demands detail. Every detail from the wood species to the pattern, dimensions and finish in order to mirror the original as faithfully as possible. 

Preserving the Architectural Intent

Restoration at this scale is more than a technical challenge. It’s a philosophical one. How do you restore a building without rewriting it? In this case, the answer lies in craftsmanship, documentation, and material honesty. By replicating the original floor down to the smallest detail, the renovation maintains continuity with Jacobsen’s original vision - both aesthetically and culturally.

The National Bank’s architecture is understated but powerful. It relies on the natural interplay between surfaces: concrete, glass, metal - and wood. The Doussie floor plays a vital role in softening the interior, grounding the monumental space and introducing human warmth.

A Floor That Belongs

Working with protected heritage sites requires not just skill, but deep respect. Supplying the original flooring in this project was about precision, quality and durability. We’re not just supplying a product; we’re contributing to a legacy.

When it reopens, the National Bank will remain what it has always been: a civic symbol, a working institution, and one of Denmark’s most architecturally significant buildings. And beneath it all, a floor that honours the past while supporting the future.

At Hørning, we are glad to bear witness to one of Denmark's biggest restorations - eager to see what the future holds.