Step inside Paustian, Denmark's 'it' design store nestled inside a 19th-century bank
By Karine Monie -
In the heart of Copenhagen, the Danish furniture and design store Paustian opened a new showroom in a majestic, recently renovated 19th-century building.
Since its debut in 1964, Paustian has become one the most renowned furniture and design brands in Denmark and the world. In December last year, the maison inaugurated an impressive showroom nestled in a palazzo-like building that dates back to 1868 and was once home to one of Denmark’s oldest banks.
Located in the pedestrian zone of Stroget and spread over two levels (the ground floor and basement), the store invites passers-by to enter a sublime historic space adorned with big vaults, a marble checkerboard floor, golden columns and mahogany wall panels, among other details – all original.
Architecture studio Aarstiderne Arkitekter was in charge of the renovation. “Throughout the entire process, our aim has been to preserve the original architecture, while still revitalising the building with new functions”, says the spokesperson of the team, “The main architectural thrust has been to open the property toward the city with open shop fronts on the ground floor.”
On the front façade, large glass panels were added to let the light flood the ground floor, which showcases living and dining room setups to help visitors see how every piece could be used and placed in a specific context.
Inside, the Paustian interior design team chose some of the brand’s signature colours for the walls and plinths.
Custom-made Paustian 2R cabinets act as podiums and tall shelving units display products from the retail space, including books and fashion pieces.
A selection of mid-century, modern and contemporary furniture, home accessories, lifestyle products and design items from Paustian, as well as other renowned brands like Vitra, Artek, Cassina and Frama occupy the space.
Accessible through a black wire-frame staircase, the basement – which still hosts the old bank’s safety deposit boxes – features Paustian’s lighting collection.
“With Paustian Stroget we wanted to create an inspiring design universe closer to the customer”, explains Frantz Longhi, CEO of Paustian.
Combining historic elements and modern design pieces, this store reflects the brand’s DNA and the character of Ole and Monika Paustian – the now-retired initiators of the whole story. “
The combination of contemporary furniture and quirky events differentiated us from the competition”, the couple says. “It wasn’t a defined strategy, but rather a natural extension of us and our personalities.”