Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Copenhagen
"Tell us a bit about the history of this place.Warm minimalism is at its best in this modern reboot of Copenhagen’s first skyscraper, designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1960. Sleek but inviting Danish furniture—yes, that is Jacobsen’s famous Egg chair—is strewn throughout the sprawling lobby, encouraging a bit of reprieve in the bustling space. The original suspended staircase, now upgraded with leather-wrapped handrails, is a beauty. Nice. Who is it best for?A prime location across from Tivoli Gardens and a short stroll to Copenhagen Central Station attracts guests from all walks of life. But business travelers tend to dominate the public spaces more so than families or vacationing couples. Once we've checked in and gotten up to our room, what can we expect from the space?Heady views of Copenhagen steal the limelight, but look closer and the subtle design details—marble window sills, wood-paneled walls, mirrored panels—are just as impressive. Re-upholstered Jacobsen chairs nod to the past. Are there any good food options on the hotel premises?A floor-to-ceiling wooden screen divides the lobby from Café Royal, featuring an open kitchen and a round bar that serves cocktails named for Danish designers (Jacobsen’s Mezcal Tea Sour). Sip one from a velvet chair in the lounge. Anything else we should know about the hotel before booking a room?History and design geeks will be pleased to know that Room 606 is the only one of the 259 rooms and suites that remains just as Jacobsen designed it—standing proud as a small, well-preserved slice of the hotel’s heyday. Jacobsen created this property for Scandinavian Airlines in the midst of the Jet Age, and it's considered the world’s first design hotel. Thanks to a thoughtful renovation in 2018 courtesy of Space Copenhagen, which incorporates a number of original elements, it’s a beauty once more." - Alia Akkam
