What to expect at 3 Days of Design (key insights from someone who’s there every year)

This June will be my fourth time attending 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen -and I already can’t wait.

If you’re thinking of going for the first time, or just wondering if it’s worth your time and steps (yes, and YES), here’s what you need to know. These aren’t just surface-level takeaways. They’re key insights I’ve gathered over the years - from someone who walks every inch of the city during this festival, talks to everyone in the showrooms, and returns home buzzing with fresh ideas.

Let’s get into it.

1. Design is (and should be) democratic

No badge required. No “who do you work for?” energy. If you’re asked that question, it is not to make sure you can get in - people are genuinely interested and want to break the ice.

If you’ve ever experienced the cold exclusivity of Milan (you can’t sit with us energy was my main impression after attending the Milan fairs) or other big design weeks, this is the exact opposite.

At 3 Days of Design, everyone’s welcome. You don’t need credentials - just true and honest curiosity. You can walk into most exhibitions, start conversations, and feel completely at ease whether you're a full-time designer or someone who just loves a well-made chair.

2. Craft & craftsmen take the stage at 3 Days of Design. And should take the stage more in general.

You’ll feel it instantly and everywhere: this event is about how things are made.

In a world of polished showrooms and digital renders, there’s something powerful about watching a woodworker carve a chair leg by hand.

From Carl Hansen’s live demonstrations or the Modern Makers’ pop-up, you get a deep, physical reminder of the human touch behind good design.

3. If a brand is truly conscious,
you’ll remember it forever

I’ve been talking about Søuld to every interior design friend I know. Their approach - acoustic panels made from eelgrass, deeply rooted in Danish history - it wasn’t just sustainability. It was a powerful, artistic, comprehensive brand picture.

The story, the product, the setting (on a boat!), the visual language- it all clicked. That’s the kind of branding you don’t forget.

The most ethical brands at 3 Days of Design don’t scream about it. They live it.

4. Design can be perceived and presented as art

If you’ve ever struggled to see furniture or lighting as a piece of art, that ends here.

So many brands ditch the typical showroom vibe and go full gallery mode.

One of my favorite examples: Fritz Hansen’s 2023 exhibition at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. It felt more like a curated art show than a product display.

One of my favourite part of this event - design becomes storytelling.

5. Copenhagen is one big open showroom - bring your best walking shoes

You will walk. A lot. Last year I managed to do 35,000 steps in one day. The exhibitions are scattered all across the city: Refshaleøen, Nordhavn, Vesterbro, Østerbro, city center - you name it.

That’s the beauty of it. Every route becomes part of the experience. You stumble upon smaller, quieter exhibitions in courtyards or converted apartments, and you see the city in its full glory.

7. Come ready to talk (and learn)

This might be my favorite part: the people who are willing to share knowledge.

The brand reps, curators, and designers aren’t standing around trying to upsell you - they’re just excited to talk. I’ve had some of the best conversations by simply asking, “Hey, can you tell me more about this piece?”

If you’re looking to learn, grow your network, or just meet other design lovers - this is your space.

Hope to see you in Copenhagen!

This event isn’t just for seeing new furniture or showrooms. It’s about feeling the values behind design. The why, not just the what.

So if you're going for the first time: bring comfy shoes, charge your phone, and stay super curious & open-minded.

If you're coming back again, you already know the drill.

Hope to see you in Copenhagen!