Designer Helle Mardahl has combined her signature approach to colour with traditional architectural elements for the interior of her Copenhagen flagship store.
Located within a historic building in Frederiksstaden, which once housed a royal jeweller, the space was restored and transformed to complement the sugary hues of Helle Mardahl Studio‘s glassware.
The store’s design was centred around preserving the historical features and craftsmanship of the building while integrating them with the studio’s more modern, candy-inspired glass pieces to create a balance between the past and present.
“The space has always captured my attention as I passed by,” Mardahl told Dezeen. “It once housed a jeweller’s store, and the elegant details still remain – an ornate ceiling, exquisite cabinets – all breathing history.”
“These elements now embrace our organically shaped objects, creating a dance of contrasts – the sharp details of the past meeting the soft fluidity of our designs,” she added.
Colour plays a defining role in the identity of Mardahl’s brand, which is reflected in the store’s palette and was central to shaping its design.
Mardahl collaborated with surface design studio File Under Pop to define a selection of colours for the space that she describes as “inviting yet understated”.
The walls are painted in soft shades of pink, yellow and cream, complemented by dusty blue curtains. In contrast, the storefront features bold flamingo-pink double doors, serving as the interior’s sole vibrant accent.
“These hues were carefully chosen to allow the glass to take centre stage, enhancing its vibrancy without overwhelming it,” she explained.
“The result is a harmonious interplay, with the colours subtly enriching the atmosphere in a way that feels effortlessly captivating.”
The flooring – originally dark mahogany with what Mardahl described as a “strong 2000s vibe” – was replaced with soft beige linoleum by Tarkett to bring a sense of lightness and playfulness to the store.
“The most significant transformation was reimagining the floors,” said Mardahl.
“It completely transformed the space, opening it up and giving it that quirky, unique energy that reflects the spirit of Helle Mardahl Studio.”
Mardahl’s hallmark glass containers, candlestick holders and drinkware are displayed around the store, arranged in cabinets and perched on pedestals while the studio’s bonbon-shaped pendant lamps hang from the ceiling.
Colour is also injected in a playful way through the display furniture, such as the pedestals and cabinet knobs, which are painted in the same soft colour palette that defines the space.
Mardahl says she hopes for patrons of her flagship store to feel like they’ve “stepped into a world of wonder”.
“The store is designed to be a feast for the senses, brimming with vibrant colours, captivating forms, and an atmosphere of playful discovery,” she explained.
Mardahl has previously showcased her works at multiple editions of 3 Days of Design, including an installation designed to resemble the messy home of a “shopaholic” and an exhibition inspired by Wes Anderson’s film The Grand Budapest Hotel.
The photography is by Alastair Philip Wiper.
