Last month, Ann travelled to Copenhagen with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS), Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS), and representatives from the Scottish Government as part of a three-day trade delegation to 3 Days of Design Copenhagen, one of Europe’s leading festivals celebrating architecture, design and innovation.
The visit to 3 Days of Design Copenhagen formed part of a Scottish Government-funded initiative to promote Scottish architecture on an international stage, showcasing the creativity, innovation and collaborative strength of Scotland’s architecture and design sector. Alongside fellow practitioners from Moxon Architects, Paper Igloo and GRAS, the delegation explored how Denmark has built a globally recognised design culture while creating opportunities for Scottish practices to develop international relationships.
Alongside the programme of events at 3 Days of Design Copenhagen, the group met with leading organisations across the city to gain insight into Denmark’s approach to architecture, sustainability and design promotion.
One of the highlights for Ann was the opportunity to meet with Susan Carruth from GXN, the independent innovation company established by 3XN Architects. During a tour of GXN’s Copenhagen office, Susan shared insights into the practice’s pioneering research and design work, demonstrating how innovation, behavioural science, material science and circular thinking are embedded into architectural projects from the earliest stages. The presentation explored GXN’s interdisciplinary approach to tackling some of the built environment’s biggest challenges, bringing together architects, behavioural scientists and sustainability specialists to better understand how people interact with buildings and places while developing regenerative, low-carbon design solutions. From reducing embodied carbon and designing for disassembly to creating environments that positively influence health, wellbeing and behaviour, the visit highlighted the value of research-led design in shaping a more resilient and environmentally responsible future for architecture. It was an inspiring discussion that reinforced the importance of evidence-based design and cross-disciplinary collaboration in addressing the complex challenges facing the built environment.
The delegation also visited Buro Happold, where discussions focused on Denmark’s ambitious approach to low-carbon construction. With new regulations introduced in July 2025 that significantly reduce allowable embodied carbon (CO₂e) levels for new buildings, Denmark continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainable architecture and environmental policy. The visit provided valuable insight into how evolving regulations are influencing design thinking and construction across the sector.
As part of the wider 3 Days of Design Copenhagen programme, another key stop was BLOX, home to Creative Denmark, the Danish Architecture Centre and the Danish Design Centre. Presentations and discussions revealed how decades of collaboration, long-term investment and coordinated support have helped establish Denmark as a global leader in architecture and design. Rather than focusing solely on individual practices, Denmark has fostered an interconnected design ecosystem that promotes innovation, knowledge sharing and international engagement. The focus on building a connected design culture, rather than supporting individual practices in isolation, offered valuable lessons for strengthening Scotland’s own design ecosystem.
A visit to IKEA Copenhagen provided a different perspective, with a tour of the rooftop garden designed by landscape architects 1:1 Landskab. The stepped landscape transforms a commercial rooftop into a generous public space, combining planting, biodiversity and places to pause while demonstrating how everyday environments can contribute positively to urban life.
Participating in 3 Days of Design Copenhagen provided an opportunity not only to represent Scotland internationally but also to build new relationships, exchange ideas with peers and gain valuable insight into approaches that are shaping the future of architecture and design. The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration, sustainability and international dialogue in creating resilient, people-focused places, while opening up opportunities for future international collaboration.
We extend our sincere thanks to Creative Denmark and the Scottish Government Nordic Office for their generous support in delivering such an inspiring and valuable programme. The experience has provided fresh perspectives, meaningful connections and renewed inspiration that will continue to inform the work of the studio.