The latest episode of The Architects Series, produced by THE PLAN in collaboration with Iris Ceramica Group, walks us through Henning Larsen. This international studio, founded in 1959 by the Danish architect of the same name, has defined itself through an architectural language that blends artistic sensitivity with practicality.
Founded in 1959 by Danish architect Henning Larsen, Henning Larsen Architects is recognized for a unique approach that blends artistic sensitivity with practicality. From the earliest days, Henning Larsen has focused on the importance of curiosity and experimentation in fueling an approach in which ongoing dialogue with the local context and culture is a crucial element of the design process. This approach has seen the studio creating works that not only respond to immediate needs, but also enrich society by promoting meaningful human interaction.
Today, the firm is led by Managing Director Mette Kynne Frandsen and Global Market Director Jacob Kurek. With over 600 employees in eight countries, Henning Larsen continues to be a leader in sustainable architecture and innovation. It has continued Larsen’s legacy, establishing itself as one of the most important practices internationally while never losing sight of the centrality of people and the nature of everyday life.
Going beyond the simple design of buildings, Henning Larsen’s philosophy sees architecture as an ongoing process of learning and adaptation. This methodology can be seen in the broad range of projects designed with the intention of enriching society and encouraging meaningful human interaction. At the heart of Henning Larsen’s philosophy is an ever-sharpening focus on context, culture, and people. Every project responds to changing global and local needs, while reflecting an ongoing commitment to improving and evolving architectural practice.
Research and innovation are central to the studio’s philosophy. New tools and methodologies, such as 3D modeling to analyze the impact of carbon in urban constructions (UrbanDecarb), are regularly harnessed to develop more sustainable and context-friendly designs. This commitment to sustainable solutions is reflected in the way the studio’s projects respond to evolving global and local needs.
With the passing of Henning Larsen in 2013, the studio has carried forward his legacy and vision, maintaining a balance between aesthetics and functionality. In every project, the team not only addresses immediate needs, but also anticipates and facilitates future ways of living. This approach has seen the studio winning numerous awards, including the Praemium Imperiale Laureate for Architecture, the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award, and the 2019 European Architect of the Year Award. Most recently, the practice won the 2021 ULI Asia Pacific Award of Excellence and, in 2023, the Fast Company award, which recognized Henning Larsen as one of the most innovative companies in the world.