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Conversation with Teva Tiensuu, General Manager at The Falcon Hotel, Bornholm

Every summer, dontt.dk publishes our big guide to Bornholm. We highlight new places to discover as well as classic favorites we return to year after year. Among them is Melsted Badehotel (read our interview with them here) – and, of course, The Falcon Hotel in Sandvig.

The Falcon Hotel has long been established as one of the island’s most distinctive and beloved places to stay. This historic boutique hotel in Sandvig is all about adventure and beautiful surroundings. It’s a place that works just as well for a cozy date night as for families with kids exploring the island – somewhere you can start the day with a good book in the lounge or head out to discover the dramatic cliffs of Hammerknuden.

The hotel is open year-round and continues to evolve – both as a base for Bornholm’s many experiences and as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Driving that development is Teva Tiensuu, General Manager at The Falcon Hotel, Bornholm, who has roots in Canada, France, and now Bornholm.

We spoke with Teva Tiensuu about the spirit of adventure, the hotel’s ambitions, and what new plans are in store for 2025.

Teva, how are you looking forward to the new season?

“We’re really excited. It’s shaping up to be an interesting season. We’ve built a strong team and improved the facilities, including a new pétanque court and sauna. Everything is running better than ever. We’re also noticing a shift – we already have twice as many bookings as we did at this time last year. People are planning their trips well in advance, which is a really good sign for the whole island and something we feel a big responsibility for.”

How would you describe the hotel to someone who’s never been?

“It’s a unique experience – genuinely cozy. Adventure is at the heart of the hotel. Staying here should feel like an adventure, but without losing that sense of warmth and home. There’s always something to look at, but it’s not just for show – it has to feel lived-in. We want to be the base for guests to head out and explore. There should be room for everyone – we can do the full five-course dinner level, but kids should also feel right at home.”

You have a pretty unique journey to getting here. How does your own story connect with the hotel?

“I worked with Mette (editor’s note: Mette Tiensuu, founder of The Falcon Hotel) when she started the hotel – she’s my aunt. I gradually got more involved, and when the hotel was sold, I was offered the chance to stay on and take responsibility for it. I was both happy and proud to accept. I’ve bought a house in Allinge – it’s a big part of my life now. I was born in Canada, grew up in France, and ended up on Bornholm because of The Falcon. I’ve never regretted it.”

What role does the location play in the hotel and the guest experience?

“It’s huge, of course. We’re right in the middle of one of the island’s most beautiful areas—close to Hammerknuden and Hammershus. The hotel sits on the cliffs with views of the Baltic Sea. We have several different gardens, a fire pit, swings. It’s a lively place all year round.”

Tell us a bit about the restaurant—what can guests expect?

“We’re staying true to our concept – very honest and accessible. You know, ‘peel-your-own-shrimp and rosé’, and in the evening we offer a solid à la carte menu. We have a lot of local staff – we’ve built a stable team over the past three years, and we’re really proud of that. It’s an area where we’ve truly grown.”

What does the future look like for The Falcon? Any new plans or projects?

“We’ve put a lot of effort into developing what we can offer for companies. We’ve already hosted many meetings and conferences. It was important for us to get really good at that. We see big potential in connecting the experience here to something people can take back with them to their work. And of course, sustainability is a key focus. We’re working on finding our own approach – but it’s definitely something we’re prioritizing.” (You can read more about Falcon’s conference options here.)

You’ve pretty much gone local by now – what would you personally recommend people experience on Bornholm this year?

“There’s just so much, it’s hard to single things out. But Ekkodalen is amazing – wild nature and a really nice place to eat. And then of course the island’s cliffs, from Allinge all the way around. You just don’t find that anywhere else. The Rø Plantation area is also great. And then there’s Louisekroen in Bølshavn, the walk at Helligpeder, or the bird of prey show – you can tell I could go on forever, right?”

Og husk – du kan finde vores samlede Bornholm-guide på dontt.dk/bornholm, hvor vi deler både nye tips og vores klassiske favoritter som Melsted Badehotel og The Falcon Hotel.

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Conversation with Sabine Josephine Fabrin, JOE & THE JUICE

There is hardly any debate that JOE & THE JUICE is one of Denmark’s most exciting companies to watch. It’s a brand that doesn’t just sell juice and coffee but consistently executes campaigns and launches worldwide — always with a clear strategy. This makes the company fascinating because behind its distinctive bar counters lies a global engine room full of ideas, collaborations, and local adaptations.

Here, you get to go “behind the scenes” with Sabine Josephine Fabrin, who works with brand, communication & marketing at JOE & THE JUICE. She helps shape the brand’s story, create partnerships, and activate campaigns and product launches across continents.

We gain insight into how the work happens in practice, how the culture at JOE & THE JUICE HQ differs from the typical corporate life — and why “living the brand” is not just a cliché but a real part of everyday life for Sabine and her colleagues.

Sabine, how would you explain your work at JOE & THE JUICE to my 8-year-old daughter? What are your tasks?

“Hmm, that’s a good question! For your 8-year-old daughter, it might be easiest to say: I help tell the world how awesome JOE & THE JUICE is. And if I had to give an example, it’s like planning and hosting a party — you have to plan, inform people, send out invitations, and of course, throw the party itself. For me, the ‘party’ is brand partnerships, campaigns, and product launches. I work with people from all over the world and make sure we tell the same great story — whether you’re in Copenhagen, New York, or Bahrain.”

What does a typical workday look like for you?

“My days are rarely the same — and that’s what I love. Usually, I start by checking emails and prioritizing the day’s most important tasks. It can be anything from coordinating the launch of a new campaign, giving feedback on creative assets, holding meetings with global markets, or following up with agencies, the product team, and franchise partners.

Sometimes, I also have days like last Saturday, when JOE & THE JUICE partnered with Lululemon and RaveYoga to host International Yoga Day. I made sure everything was planned, produced, and executed on our end.
I act as the link between idea and reality. My job is to ensure everyone is working towards the same goal and that the task gets done. A bit like an octopus, with a finger in almost everything.”

You have worked in large companies before (like L’Oréal) — how does JOE & THE JUICE differ from them?

“JOE & THE JUICE stands out significantly from other places I’ve worked. In many ways. First and foremost, JOE & THE JUICE is extremely entrepreneurial and energetic. And less ‘corporate’ in a good way. In bigger companies, you often spend a lot of time on approval processes and hierarchies, but at JOE & THE JUICE, the path from idea to action is much shorter. You quickly get responsibility and can feel your impact, which is super motivating for me.

Additionally, the brand and culture are deeply embedded in everyday life. You can feel it both at the office and in how we work together. I have never worked in an office I enjoy coming into as much as I do at JOE & THE JUICE HQ. For me personally, that has meant a lot because it also means I work with a brand — and thus people — I have a lot in common with.”. Our HQ is designed like a JOE & THE JUICE — with our own JOE bar and an atmosphere that feels both homely and full of the energy and culture that define JOE & THE JUICE.

You ‘live the brand’ at JOE & THE JUICE — we eat and drink it every day, which also means that almost everyone working here truly understands the brand and the products. This creates a special culture and ensures we attract people who naturally become an extension of the brand.

For me personally, that has meant a lot because it also means I work with a brand — and thus people — I share a lot in common with.”

What is the most important thing you have learned since starting at JOE & THE JUICE?

“Flexibility and drive beat almost everything. Things happen fast at JOE & THE JUICE, and you have to be able to navigate change without losing direction. When you work in an environment built on trust, ownership, and a fast pace, you can truly achieve great things.

In addition, I’ve learned how important it is for me to work with something I am personally aligned with. Working for a brand and product I genuinely believe in makes my job meaningful and fun. You automatically become an ambassador for JOE & THE JUICE, which I can feel makes a big difference for my engagement.”

What does it mean to you to work somewhere where culture and brand are so closely connected?

“It makes the work meaningful. At JOE & THE JUICE, the brand is not just a strategy — as I mentioned earlier, it’s something we live by ourselves by setting the framework for it. From how we talk to each other at the office to the energy we put into the campaigns. It makes being creative both easier and more fun because we have a clear direction and a strong identity to work from.”

Sabine Josephine Fabrin in “HOUSE 11”

You work a lot globally, but with a strong local presence — something many Danish brands strive for. I’d like to hear a bit more about that?

“I understand that well, and it’s also super relevant and interesting. We have to balance a strong global narrative with local needs and differences. It’s about staying true to the brand while also understanding what works in Paris versus Dubai or, for example, Mexico, where we are opening this fall. Our local teams are crucial for success — their input makes our global campaigns stronger and more relevant. The local teams and the juices are the ones creating the experience for our customers. That’s why it’s important to have local buy-in and local flavor in what we deliver in different markets.”

One of the new local initiatives is HOUSE 11. How has it been received?

“HOUSE 11 has been very well received, both by guests and internally. It shows that JOE & THE JUICE is more than just food and beverage. We are lifestyle. HOUSE 11 creates an experience and a feeling that people want to be a part of.

It has been an exciting case of how we can challenge our concept without compromising the brand.

At the same time, we’ve opened our first JOE GYM, and HOUSE 11 serves as our ‘everyday elevated health destination.’ JOE & THE JUICE is not a treat. It’s a given. We’re here for those who want to live healthy in an easy way. HOUSE 11 is a place where we can explore that even more and where our community really comes to life, while also giving us the chance to try other commercial initiatives.”

What drives you personally in your work?

“I’m driven by working with a brand and products that reflect the lifestyle I strive for, where health and balance play an important role. I’m motivated by creating something that can be felt and seen, especially when it happens through inspiring events and collaborations with figures like Novak Djokovic or Paris Hilton.

The international environment energizes me. I love working globally and being part of the growth JOE & THE JUICE is experiencing. I enjoy traveling with JOE & THE JUICE and seeing how the brand is received in different cultures, as well as understanding the nuances needed to keep the brand relevant in various markets.”

Who or what inspires you in your professional life?

“At JOE & THE JUICE, anything is possible, and that mindset inspires me. I thrive on the feeling that ‘anything can happen,’ and it’s about just grabbing opportunities and making them happen. That gives me tremendous freedom and motivation.”

We stopped by HOUSE11 — JOE & THE JUICE’s new concept store in the heart of Copenhagen.
The whole adventure started just around the corner, and now a new chapter begins.
Read on and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look → READ MORE!

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Melsted Badehotel is one of those places on Bornholm we return to year after year in our dontt.dk guide. The location is something you simply have to experience—right on the waterfront at idyllic Melsted Strand, with views of the Baltic Sea and the island’s distinctive granite cliffs.

The hotel first opened in 1932 in an eye-catching white functionalist building that still exudes style and history, even after a careful renovation and modern update.

As tradition dictates, we spoke with Ajaja Kofoed-Nørgaard from Melsted Badehotel about the outlook for the season. Under the ownership of Eline Halborg-Bendtsen, the historic Bornholm hotel has seen remarkable development, with its heritage thoughtfully preserved and elevated into a modern, exclusive setting.

Eline Halborg-Bendtsen & Ajaja Kofoed-Nørgaard

Ajaja, how has the season started for you?

“We’ve gotten off to a great start. When we spoke in May, I mentioned we already had many bookings in the diary, and thankfully, that momentum has continued. We have a lot of returning guests.

We’re looking forward to a calm year — in the sense that this is my third season. Much of the foundation is in place. I know what to expect, and we’ve fine-tuned all the little details we discussed three years ago.

That said, we’re not resting on our laurels. It gives us the freedom to think creatively and make even better use of the facilities we have.

We’ve hosted caretaker retreats, yoga retreats, and EMS training, all of which were a big success. We plan to do even more of these activities. Plus, we now have a sauna that guests can enjoy after a refreshing dip.”

If you had to describe the hotel to someone who has never been here?

“I’d like to brag a little and mention that it’s no coincidence we’ve been named the best seaside hotel on the islands and in Zealand. We stick to a very classic style, but we’ve definitely taken it up a notch — in terms of service, the restaurant, and the interior design.

It’s beautiful, comfortable, and welcoming. There shouldn’t be too much noise or distraction. Once you check in, you basically don’t need to go anywhere else. It’s all about relaxing, the water, nature, and everything around. Light, neutral tones.

There are plenty of opportunities to explore. Everything is within walking distance — beautiful nature experiences and the town of Gudhjem nearby.

We also offer bikes and kayaks to support that. Pétanque and croquet too — so there’s plenty of entertainment.”

What role does the location between Gudhjem and Melsted play in your daily life and guests’ experience?

“It’s simply the best location on Bornholm. So it plays a huge role.

From the very beginning, it was important for us to have strong local roots. We maintain close collaborations with our neighbors: Madkulturhuset, guided foraging tours, Baltic Sea Glass with its art glass, and Store Badedag, which is not only for our guests but also for the local community. We are deeply engaged with the local area because we need each other.”

How do you work with the seasons — how close are you to being open year-round? It’s always a hot topic on Bornholm.

“More and more people are realizing there’s a lot happening at both ends of the season—from Easter to the autumn holidays. This gives us the opportunity to stay open longer. We will never be open all year round, but there’s no doubt that this will evolve over time.”

What does the future hold for Melsted Badehotel — any new plans, dreams, or projects?

“We will focus on further developing the guest experiences. It’s a luxury to be able to pay attention to both the big and small details. We’re also focusing on sustainability — continuously adapting to improve wherever we can. I’m looking forward to sharing more about that later.”

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It’s not every day a Dane earns a seat at the table of one of the world’s most iconic companies — but today, it’s happening at the very top.

Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, the former CEO of the LEGO Group from Denmark, has been appointed to the Board of Directors at NIKE, Inc. — a global powerhouse in sport, lifestyle, and innovation.

With this move, Knudstorp joins an elite group. Nike’s board includes the likes of Apple CEO Tim Cook, who serves as lead independent director. Co-founder and industry legend Phil Knight continues to play a key role as Chairman Emeritus. Another notable member is Thasunda Duckett, CEO of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA) and former top executive at JPMorgan Chase.

The announcement was made official in the U.S. today and is already making waves in the international business and branding communities.

Jørgen Vig Knudstorp served as CEO of the LEGO Group from 2004 to 2016, leading a remarkable turnaround and a period of strong global growth. He later took on the role of Executive Chair of the LEGO Brand Group until 2023 and currently serves as Vice Chair of the LEGO Foundation.

His deep experience with global brands, consumer products, and cultural leadership is among the key qualities Nike highlights.

“Jørgen’s strong global experience with brand and digital marketing, strategy, and consumer products — as well as his development and fostering of culture and values — will make him an excellent addition to our board,” said Mark Parker, Executive Chairman of NIKE, Inc. “We look forward to working with Jørgen during an exciting time for Nike, where we will unlock our next chapter of growth through innovative product and distinctive brand storytelling across an integrated marketplace.”

Before joining LEGO, Knudstorp worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He holds both a master’s degree and a PhD in economics and business management from Aarhus University.

He currently also serves on the board of another global giant, Starbucks Corporation, and is a partner at the investment firm Innovation Endeavors.

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The Copenhagen-based eyewear company MESSYWEEKEND has just released its financial results for 2024, revealing double-digit revenue growth driven by expansion into new markets, the launch of a new sub-brand, and a major strategic shift.

According to Mads Koch Petersen, co-CEO of MESSYWEEKEND, 2024 marked a turning point for the company:

“2024 was a year of transformation where we made deliberate investments in the future of MESSYWEEKEND. Our B2B business is gaining strong momentum, and our expansion into new markets and the launch of Bisou have given us a solid foundation. As a result, we’re closing the year with an 8 million DKK deficit – but already in 2025, we expect to see that reflected positively on the bottom line with a solid profit.”

Co-founders of MESSYWEEKEND: Marc Østerskov & Mads Koch Petersen.

MESSYWEEKEND entered seven new Asian markets in 2024 and opened its first mono-brand stores in the region. In 2025, the Copenhagen-based eyewear company plans to launch a double-digit number of new locations—among them, stores in China, South Korea, and India. At the same time, the company introduced its new reading glasses sub-brand, Bisou, which is already available at more than 50 retail partners and expected to reach over 200 locations in the coming year.

Shifting from a D2C to a B2B-driven business model is already showing clear results. In Denmark, MESSYWEEKEND is firmly positioned through its strong retail partner, Magasin. According to co-CEO Mads Koch Petersen, the company is now focused on scaling what works:

“We’ve moved away from growth based on online performance marketing toward building strong partnerships and real presence. It gives us better volume—and a much more stable foundation.”

And Asia isn’t just an expansion—it’s a strategic test of MESSYWEEKEND’s global potential:

“Asia is a crucial step for us. Many Danish brands try their hand at international markets, but few truly succeed. For us, it’s about believing in our product—and proving that we belong. The past year’s significant effort and investment in Asia show that we’ve earned a place in the global retail landscape,” says Mads Koch Petersen.

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The Copenhagen-based brewery Mikkeller has every reason to celebrate this year, as its 2024 financial report paints a very positive picture.
The company posted a profit of nearly DKK 12 million, marking its best result since 2016 — and all signs suggest that 2025 could be even better.

Over the past year, Carlsberg has taken over distribution in Denmark and acquired a 20% stake in Mikkeller. That move has allowed the brewery to focus its internal efforts on expanding its retail operations and accelerating growth in international markets — areas that are now showing renewed momentum.

This strategic shift hasn’t just driven revenue up. It’s also enabled Mikkeller to significantly cut operating costs across its business units, strengthening the company’s overall performance.

Mikkel Bjergsø:

“We’ve managed to strengthen nearly every financial indicator,” says Mikkeller’s founder and CEO. “That’s primarily thanks to our talented team, who’ve done an outstanding job. At the same time, we’ve rediscovered the creative energy and playful spirit that has always been part of Mikkeller’s DNA. I may be turning 50 soon, and things might be a bit more organized around here – but the wildness is still very much alive.”

Mikkel also points out that the company has spent several tough years navigating lockdowns and dramatic increases in energy and raw material costs — challenges that nearly brought the otherwise successful Danish brewery to its knees.

Mikkel Bjergsø continues:

“It’s been a tough few years in the beer industry. But we’ve got loyal fans, and we’re really good at creating extraordinary experiences that people want to be part of — whether it’s our running clubs, the many festivals, or events like the recent 10-year anniversary of Warpigs. We deliver wild experiences, and in the end, that’s what it’s all about.”

Finally, Mikkel shares that he’s not the only one hitting a milestone this year. In 2025, Mikkeller will celebrate its 20th anniversary — a milestone that will be marked with ambitious plans for the future: new bars, new festivals, and a strengthened push into new international markets.

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Last week, Zalando launched a new capsule collection in collaboration with Dickies and Berlin-based burger joint Goldies. The collection, inspired by workwear, food, and street culture, was unveiled at an event held in the former King Size Club in central Berlin.

At the core of the collaboration is Zalando, acting as both the platform and driving force behind the project. The exclusive collection is available only on Zalando and features reimagined Dickies classics such as the Eisenhower jacket, Original Work Shirt, pants, and an apron — all designed with inspiration from the unique universe Goldies has created in Berlin.

Goldies Burger was founded by two Michelin-starred chefs and is the newer sister restaurant to the original Goldies fry and chicken shop. The combination of culinary excellence and street attitude has made Goldies a staple of Berlin’s food scene — and now also an active player in the city’s creative collaborations.

The event, Dickies x Zalando Nightshift, was held to mark the launch. The collection was showcased to invited guests in a setting defined by burgers, live DJ sets, and artistic performances.

The night’s program was both a presentation and a celebration — and a reflection of how brands and Zalando are increasingly becoming key platforms at the intersection of food, fashion, and urban culture.

The collection is available across all Zalando markets.

We briefly spoke with Vladislav Gachyn during the event — one of the two founders of Goldies — who had just returned from Copenhagen after attending the burger festival in Kødbyen. And like any good Copenhagener, we naturally asked how he felt about our city — fully expecting him to love it. Luckily, we weren’t disappointed.

Vladislav shared that he finds great inspiration in both Noma and Gasoline Grill, and that he’s genuinely impressed by the high standards — and not least the unique atmosphere Copenhagen offers. “There’s an aura in the city that’s hard to find elsewhere,” he said with a smile. It’s not the first time Copenhagen and Berlin have come together around food and creativity — and certainly not the last.

Dickies was founded in 1922 in Texas and has deep roots in classic American workwear. Originally producing clothing for craftsmen and industrial workers, the brand has since made its way into both skate culture and the fashion world. Iconic pieces like the Eisenhower Jacket and the Original Work Pant have become cult staples among subcultures across the globe. Dickies has managed to preserve its practical and durable aesthetic while being continually rediscovered by new generations.

In recent years, collaborations with creative communities and brands have helped keep Dickies relevant in an ever-evolving fashion landscape. Its DNA remains firmly grounded in functionality — and as a fun detail, most of the Goldies staff had already been wearing Dickies long before the Zalando collaboration became a reality.

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In the heart of Copenhagen, between Nørre Søgade and Nansensgade, lies Charlotte Ammundsens Plads. A square most people probably just pass through – but as of today, it’s coming to life in a whole new way. The worn-down basketball court on the square has received a complete and much-needed makeover.

Behind the project is Danish fashion brand Les Deux, who – in collaboration with the City of Copenhagen – has donated a brand new, permanent basketball court to the city. The initiative is part of the brand’s social project, Les Deux Legacy, and it’s far from the first time they’ve combined sports, community, and fashion in public spaces.

The court is officially opening today, Friday, June 20, with a tournament, DJs, celebration, and community spirit – and from then on, it will be open and free for everyone to use. A true gift to the city and its people.

“We wanted to give something back to Copenhagen,” says Andreas von der Heide, co-founder of Les Deux.
We had a chat with him about the idea, the role of basketball in Les Deux’s universe – and why a home court in the center of the city makes perfect sense.

Andreas, how did the idea of creating a basketball court come about?

“We love sports – we love the smiles, the close bonds, and above all, the competition. When we opened our first court, which was just a few construction plates outside the fashion fair three years ago, we saw how something as simple as a hoop and a net could bring real joy. Sports have always been a part of our identity – and so has the desire to help others.

A homecourt is just that – a home. A place where your relationships live, and where you can shut out the noise and find peace. Les Deux Legacy opened its first court in New York in 2023, and the goal from the start was to do the same in our hometown. Copenhagen has given us a lot and shaped us as a brand, so we wanted to give something back.”

It is a permanent court – how will it work in practice? Can anyone use it?

“We have donated the court to the city, and it is completely public. Everyone is welcome to come and play. The goal has been to create something that belongs to the city. Tietgen gave the Marble Church, Mærsk gave the Opera House – we give the city the court 😉 We want to deliver a small monument to the people, to the streets, to families, to the young and the old.”

Basketball has been an important part of Les Deux’s identity in recent years – how does this project connect to that?

“A few years ago, when we sat down to build our dream office, we built a basketball court in the heart of it. The energy, the smiles, and the ambitions at the office – we dreamed of taking that out into the world and placing small landmarks where dreams, ambitions, and closeness could find a place.

Besides that, we have always been drawn to sports. There is something about the challenge and the community. We know we are not changing the world with this project – but we hope it creates ripples. And the more people who leave this court happy, the more go out into the world with a smile.”

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The actress icon Kate Winslet – perhaps best known for her many Oscar nominations and leading roles in films like Titanic, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and The Reader (for which she won an Oscar for Best Actress) – is now turning her attention to Scandinavia.

The British star has become the new ambassador for the Norwegian skincare brand Oslo Skin Lab – specifically for their collagen powder The Solution™.

The collaboration is interesting for several reasons. Winslet turns 50 this year and in recent years has been a prominent voice in the debate about beauty ideals, representation, and natural aging. She has used her platform to challenge stereotypical images of women and insists that age and authenticity should be celebrated – not hidden.

This is a message that Oslo Skin Lab strongly shares. With The Solution™, the brand aims to support the skin’s own process – without changing what makes us unique.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet tells dontt.dk exclusively after the launch:

“I have always been quite skeptical about the effectiveness and science behind collagen in powder form, but I have truly been surprised by the results I see (and the comments I get) since I started taking The Solution from Oslo Skin Lab. It’s something special to be able to speak honestly about a product and really mean what I say!

People say things like ‘you look rested, and your skin is glowing,’ even though I’ve actually been totally exhausted lately and working three jobs at once! But through it all, my skin has noticeably become firmer and more radiant and looks far less wrinkled—especially on my legs. A friend even noticed the other day when we were out swimming together; she said I looked really toned and was curious to know what kind of exercise I had been doing. I laughed out loud because I’ve barely even been out for a walk the last couple of months!”

Cecilie Nordstrøm, founder of Oslo Skin Lab, says:

“Kate is a strong role model for women of all ages who want to age with pride and authenticity. We are incredibly proud that Kate has chosen to partner with us. She is known for only engaging in partnerships she truly believes in – which is a great quality stamp for both The Solution™ and our values.”

Cecilie explains that the development of Oslo Skin Lab and The Solution™ was largely driven by her own personal experiences.

Oslo Skin Lab was founded in 2017 in Oslo and has since established itself as a frontrunner in collagen-based skincare. Their products are designed to support the skin’s natural processes and promote a smoother, more supple appearance—without changing what makes each person’s skin unique.

We stopped by HOUSE11 — JOE & THE JUICE’s new concept store in the heart of Copenhagen.
The whole adventure started just around the corner, and now a new chapter begins.
Read on and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look → READ MORE!

Culture, business & inspiration — straight from Copenhagen to your inbox. Join over 55,500 subscribers!
We send out updates once a week.

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Conversation with Carl Ljungh and Jonas Groth, co-founders of Aarke.

A few weeks ago, we wrote about Swedish design brand Aarke – a company that’s gained global popularity. That includes Denmark, where their signature product, the Carbonator, has become a fixture in both kitchens and offices. It’s a product that works beautifully – and looks the part too. And while the Swedes might learn a thing or two from us on the football field ;), we can definitely learn from Aarke’s approach to design and product development.

Behind Aarke are Swedish industrial designers Carl Ljungh and Jonas Groth, who have been on a mission since 2013: to elevate the everyday through products that combine aesthetics, function, and durability. Everything they create stems from a curiosity about human behavior – and a belief that even a glass of water can be an experience.

At a time when many brands rush to release new products, Aarke takes the opposite approach. They refine, test, and take their time – and their latest launch, the To-Go Bottle, is a perfect example. It’s made for those who want to bring sparkling water on the go, without compromising on design or sustainability.

We spoke with Carl and Jonas about the thinking behind the bottle – and how they continue to create relevant design in a market where everything tends to look the same.

Carl Ljungh & Jonas Groth

Let’s start with the obvious question. Why are you launching a To-Go Bottle now?

Carl Ljungh:
“The idea behind the Aarke To-Go Bottle came from a problem we’ve observed ever since launching the Aarke Carbonator. Even though people make sparkling water at home, they still end up buying single-use bottles when they’re on the go. The bottle that comes with the Carbonator wasn’t designed for portability, and it doesn’t keep the water cold. And let’s face it – sparkling water tastes best when it’s cold.

With the Aarke To-Go Bottle, we’re making it possible to enjoy homemade sparkling water wherever you are, in a way that’s elegant, durable, and practical. Thanks to its double-walled vacuum-insulated stainless steel construction, the bottle also keeps your drink cold.”

What sets the Aarke To-Go Bottle apart from others on the market?

Jonas Groth:
“Unlike many other to-go bottles, the Aarke To-Go Bottle is specifically designed to be compatible with our Carbonator models – Carbonator 3 and Carbonator Pro. This means it can be screwed directly onto the machine, and the sealing mechanism is specially developed for carbonated drinks.

The bottles are made from over 90% recycled stainless steel, vacuum-insulated and double-walled, which means they keep the water cold and fizzy for longer.”

How do the To-Go Bottles fit into Aarke’s current lineup? It’s the first time Aarke moves beyond the kitchen — is this a category you plan to expand?

Carl Ljungh:

“Definitely! We started out focusing on the kitchen and home, but now we want to make it possible for users to take their drinks with them — whether to work, the gym, or wherever they’re headed. Cold and fizzy drinks are our starting point, but we definitely plan to expand the To-Go range soon — encouraging customers toward a more sustainable lifestyle.”

How has customer demand been for this type of product?

Jonas Groth:

“Since we launched our first carbonator, customers have been asking how they can best take their filtered, cold, or sparkling water on the go. Launching these bottles is a direct response to that demand.”

How do you envision customers using the Aarke To-Go Bottle?

Carl Ljungh:

“We imagine people filling the bottle at home — with carbonated, filtered, or just regular tap water — and then taking it with them to work, on walks, or to the gym. Our functional and elegant bottles are designed to be personal companions — whether it’s on the way to school or at the desk, ready to be refilled with any drink you want. It’s about making it smart, practical, and eco-friendly for users.”

How did the design process unfold to create a product integrated with Aarke’s carbonators?

Jonas Groth:

“We’ve long been considering how to make stainless steel bottles that both work seamlessly with our carbonators and suit any cold beverage. After an intensive design and engineering process, we found the perfect combination for the lid, threading, and double-walled construction. Following extensive testing, we’re now ready to launch the bottles – something the entire Aarke team has been eagerly anticipating.”

Aarke is known for high-quality, durable products. How has sustainability influenced the design and development of the Aarke To-Go Bottle?

Carl Ljungh:

“The core idea is simple: to let people take their sparkling or tap water with them — in our bottle — instead of buying plastic bottles on the go. It’s about changing habits for the better — both for the consumer and the planet. We focused on using recycled stainless steel, minimizing plastic parts, and creating an elegant, timeless design that lasts — both physically and aesthetically.”

Why did you choose stainless steel as the material?

Jonas Groth:
“Stainless steel has become something of our signature material. It’s durable, lightweight, and develops a beautiful patina over time. Since we primarily use recycled steel, its environmental impact is even lower—especially in the long run, because the material lasts so long.”

How long does an Aarke To-Go Bottle last, and when should it be replaced?

Carl Ljungh:
“We’ve subjected the bottles to accelerated testing to ensure long-lasting durability. We can’t specify exactly how many years they will last, but the intention is that with normal use, they should last virtually indefinitely.”

How much smaller is my carbon footprint by using an Aarke To-Go Bottle compared to single-use bottles?

Carl Ljungh:
“Producing one Aarke To-Go Bottle made from recycled stainless steel emits about 6.15 kg CO₂e, based on data from CarbonCloud and U&WE. In comparison, a typical single-use plastic bottle emits around 0.082 kg CO₂e.

Because our bottle is designed to last a long time, you avoid using hundreds of single-use bottles over time. After just 75 uses—meaning 75 times you choose your To-Go Bottle instead of buying bottled water—you reach a climate break-even point. Every use after that further reduces your CO₂ footprint.”

We stopped by HOUSE11 — JOE & THE JUICE’s new concept store in the heart of Copenhagen.
The whole adventure started just around the corner, and now a new chapter begins.
Read on and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look → READ MORE!

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