Designed by Wernberg & von Sperling

Restaurant Glassalen has been designed by Danish design duo Wernberg & von Sperling, who bring together their expertise in architecture, design, restoration, interior development, and concept creation. Their approach integrates historical significance with modern functionality, crafting bespoke interior solutions, product design, and service concepts that reflect the unique character of each space.

With a strong aesthetic sensibility, Wernberg & von Sperling focus on creating atmospheric and distinctive environments that emphasize empathy for the user, meticulous material selection, and custom-designed interiors.

To achieve a seamless and fully realized design, they collaborate closely with clients and expert craftsmen across various disciplines, including steel production, carpentry, upholstery, metalwork, and drapery design.

Behind the duo are Rebecca Wernberg and Julie von Sperling, childhood friends from Aarhus who have always shared a deep passion for aesthetics and architectural history. Their journey led them through the Aarhus School of Architecture and the Royal Danish Academy in Copenhagen, shaping their complementary expertise.

While Rebecca has spent nearly two decades working in restoration and interior design, Julie has gained extensive experience in the hospitality industry, specializing in service, space, and product design to create comprehensive and immersive experiences.

A ‘Gesamtkunstwerk’ Approach at Restaurant Glassalen

In designing Restaurant Glassalen, Wernberg & von Sperling sought to create a ‘Gesamtkunstwerk’—a total work of art where architecture, history, Tivoli, design, and gastronomy merge into a harmonious and immersive experience for guests.

A Rich History

Glassalen is an iconic and historic building that has housed both a theater and a restaurant. Originally built in 1863, it served as a cultural gathering place for many decades. During the German occupation of Denmark, it became a meeting point for political movements and progressive cultural forces.

In 1944, Glassalen was completely destroyed in a sabotage attack. It was later rebuilt in 1946 by the renowned Poul Henningsen (PH), who reinterpreted the original glass pavilion in his own architectural style.

The Building

The Glassalen building features a light, classical aesthetic, reminiscent of a greenhouse, with intricate yet refined detailing. Decorative wood carvings, sweeping metalwork, and Tivoli’s signature lightbulbs define the structure, all set in elegant white tones. The restaurant extension, located in the northeastern wing of the building, connects to a terrace overlooking Tivoli’s charming lake.

Arrival & Design Approach

A Thoughtful Arrival Experience

Throughout the transformation of Restaurant Glassalen, a key priority was to create a welcoming entrance that honors the building’s heritage while setting the stage for the guest experience.

The restaurant strikes a delicate balance between high-level gastronomy and an inviting, relaxed atmosphere, making it a destination for celebrations of all kinds and for all generations.

Since the building is slightly set back from the main path, it was essential to create a strong visual identity that highlights the architecture, design, and culinary experience. This has been achieved through a carefully framed entrance, featuring:

A distinctive doorway – A color-accented awning – Lushly planted pots – Charming outdoor furniture – Tivoli’s signature dome lighting

 

A Design That Complements the Space

The restaurant’s architecture is naturally bright and vibrant, functioning as a decorative element in itself. To preserve this aesthetic, Wernberg & von Sperling maintained a neutral white palette for all architectural elements, allowing furniture and interiors to add warmth and depth. Carefully selected materials, furniture, and textures create a grounded and serene atmosphere.

Since gastronomy at Restaurant Glassalen is of the highest standard, the interior design reflects this with exceptional craftsmanship and custom-made elements, developed in collaboration with local artisans.

Drawing inspiration from the formel family’s signature aesthetic, the interior pays homage to Denmark’s greatest design icons, including Kaare Klint, Finn Juhl, Vilhelm Lauritzen, and Arne Jacobsen, as well as Poul Henningsen himself. Elements from PH’s original design of Blanche Bar in the 1940s have been reinterpreted in the custom-designed reception desk and other details.