07. august 2025

Josefine Alstrup
In the heart of Copenhagen lies a building that has stood the test of time, not just architecturally, but as a space for exchange, policy, and education.
A Floor for Dialogue, Star Parquet in Frederiksstaden
In the heart of Copenhagen’s historic Frederiksstaden district lies a building that has stood the test of time, not just architecturally, but as a space for exchange, policy, and education. Completed in 1922, the headquarters of the Danish Shipping Association (Rederiforeningen) was designed by architect Emanuel Monberg, whose sensitive interpretation of neoclassicism earned him the prestigious Eckersberg Medal.
Nearly a century later, in 2019–2020, Hørning was asked to contribute a new layer to this story: a bespoke star parquet floor in solid oak. Crafted with care, the pattern echoes the building’s refined architectural language and complements the calm grandeur of its historic rooms.
Today, the building continues to serve as a hub of political dialogue and learning - hosting high-level meetings, policy talks and academic events. Our floor isn’t just a surface beneath it all. It’s part of the setting for ideas, negotiations and decisions that shape the maritime future of Denmark.
Built before Hørning itself was founded in 1925, the building reminds us that while architecture ages gracefully, it can always be renewed - quietly and respectfully - with quality materials and craftsmanship.
And sometimes, the floor beneath your feet holds more history than you realise.

Explore more stories

Protecting Beautiful Floors
28. august 2025
In the world of architecture, no surface is ever just a surface. The materials we walk on, touch, and experience are vital elements of a building’s identity.

Alta Church
26. august 2025
Above the Arctic Circle, where the landscape is carved by ice and the sky comes alive with colour, stands Alta Church, known as The Northern Lights Cathedral.

Crafting Precision
21. august 2025
In a world where digital precision is often a click away, there’s something deeply grounding about a tool that has served its purpose for over a hundred years.