Troels
Flensted

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in Holte, 20 minutes north of Copenhagen with my wife Ragna and two girls Frida, 5, and Liv, 2. We share the house with Ragna’s grandmother and I’ve got my studio/workshop in our basement.

Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

To relax for me is creating situations where my smartphone isn’t trying to steal my attention. Leaving the phone inside and just go to the garden is calming, but also museums are good for relaxation I think, and we’ve got plenty in Copenhagen. Thorvaldsens, Designmuseum Denmark, Glyptoteket, and Copenhagen Contemporary, are some of my favourites in Copenhagen. Not too far from us, in Humlebæk is Louisiana Museum of Modern Art which is worth a day trip.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

The climate crisis is the main problem to address and resolve in my opinion. Our planet can’t handle our massive consumption, and we need to act as individuals, by buying less and better things, and politically to nudge us to make the best choices.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?

On one hand, climate change isn’t questioned anymore and everyone agrees it’s primarily caused by human activities – so now we all know it’s a serious priority which is great. The sad truth is, it’s only because the situation is so critical we’re starting to realise this.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

Wilgart in Jægersborggade. It’s run by Silas, an old friend of mine, who makes custom headwear. It’s a dying craft worth supporting; Silas is the last capmaker in Denmark.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

Denmark has a very strong design and architecture scene which I find quite innovative. We might be most known for our aesthetic, simple, and functional furniture design from the 50’s and 60’s, but I also see a younger generation today, myself included, who come from this cultural design background but also try to find new expressions and ways of working with materials and production techniques.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

Silberbauers Bistro in Jægersborggade is worth a visit. Sharing all their snacks and a few of their starters is a good approach here I think – not too expensive this way and also a lot of great small dishes to taste.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

Every August there’s a 3-day craft fair in Copenhagen at Frue Plads where you can meet skilled makers and buy directly from them which I can recommend. Danish Crafts & Design Association (DKoD), who organize the craft fair, often have exhibitions and events featuring work from local artisans. While not a store per se, they may have information on where to find handmade crafts in Copenhagen which is worth checking out.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

The camera app for taking photos of my design process, inspiration, my family and friends. The notes app, for creating todo lists and Instagram, for posting my work and experiments.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I read Politiken, a Danish newspaper, but mainly I listen to podcasts such as Genstart, Borgen Unplugged, Radio Information, and #dkpol. They are all in Danish, unfortunately.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?

I’d give all, especially artists, a basic income, offering them financial stability, and enabling them to focus on their art/craft without constant financial stress. It would provide freedom to explore creativity, fostering innovation and risk-taking in their artistic expressions.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?

I wouldn’t mind living in Portugal. I find Portuguese food amazing. But honestly, I like Denmark a lot.