DENMARK. An Aspire Executive Lounge has opened at Copenhagen Airport, delivering a design-led proposition rooted firmly in a sense of place.
The space has been designed by Zebra, the London-headquartered international design and architecture consultancy.
The new lounge reflects Copenhagen’s architectural heritage and contemporary Scandinavian design ethos.
Zebra’s concept draws on the city’s historic moniker, The City of Spires, which it noted references medieval and Renaissance forms alongside a modern, international outlook befitting a major Nordic hub.
The lounge is structured around two access tiers. Aspire Executive Lounge offers core premium amenities, including complimentary food & beverage and adaptable seating for work or relaxation, while Suite by Aspire provides a more elevated hospitality experience, aimed at travellers seeking additional comfort and privacy.
A centrally positioned bar in the style of a high-end hotel anchors the space and is surrounded by a range of seating options.
These include Gubi chairs with integrated charging, communal tables and private booths, allowing guests to choose environments that suit dining, productivity or rest. Discreet curtains introduce an additional layer of privacy and flexibility.
Materials used by Zebra include natural woods, plush textiles and ambient lighting. Existing skylights have been retained to maximise natural light and reinforce an open feel.
Sustainability has also informed the project. The original wooden flooring has been repurposed and re-stained, preserving material quality while aligning with both Aspire’s and Copenhagen Airport’s broader design principles.
Zebra Associate Director Mia Tsujimura said: “Designing the Aspire Lounge in Copenhagen was an opportunity to craft a spatial narrative that resonates with both place and purpose. We drew from the city’s architectural language; its skyline, textures and tonal richness, to create a sanctuary that feels distinctly local yet globally relevant.
“Every detail was considered to create a calm sense of place for the modern traveller.”
Spires influence the lounge in more subtle ways, resulting in angular forms across shelving, lighting and signage while echoing the ‘A’ of Aspire’s brand identity. Copper finishes reference the city’s skyline and add depth and texture.
Operational flow and comfort were key considerations according to Zebra, with integrated lighting, updated wayfinding and clear zoning supporting intuitive navigation.
Artwork has been commissioned in Denmark in collaboration with local artists, while accessories sourced from Magasins Du Nord reinforce authenticity.
Aspire Executive Lounges Global Senior Vice President David Collyer commented, “Our new lounge at Copenhagen Airport reflects our commitment to well-designed spaces that deliver comfort, relaxation and a seamless experience for our guests, while embodying a sense of place and truly celebrating Danish culture.” ✈
