an architectural bookstore inside Cobe’s Copenhagen studio;
It is located inside by Cobe studio inside Copenhagenthe bookstore offers a carefully selected urbanization option, landscapearchitecture and design titles from around the world. Visitors are invited not only to browse and buy booksbut also to spend time reading, discovering new ideas and doing architecture while enjoying free coffee. THE interior spaces they are designed by Danish architect Nikolaj Mentze of Studio 0405 and are bespoke steel shelves, a long wooden counter with coffee seats and wooden display cases, creating a warm and welcoming environment for readingreflection and informal exchanges. Architectural models from Cobe are also displayed throughout the space, further connecting the bookstore to the practice’s work and design process.
The initiative stems from a simple observation: despite Copenhagen’s international reputation as a leading city of design and architecture, it has long lacked a dedicated architecture bookstore. “We have been missing such a place in Copenhagen for years” says Dan Stubbergaard, founder of Cobe. “Architecture is ultimately about people, places and the exchange of ideas. However, there is no dedicated space where architects, students or curious visitors can immerse themselves in the best architecture books, discover new perspectives and find inspiration. Instead of waiting for someone else to create it, we decided to do it ourselves.’
all images from Francisco Tirado
An evolving studio space for reading, coffee and slowing down
The bookstore represents a natural extension of Cobe’s ambition to open studio towards the city. Following the launch of the studio cafe in 2019, the new bookstore further transforms the practice into a place for conversation, learning and cultural exchange. By inviting visitors directly into the studio environment, Cobe hopes to make architecture more accessible and share some of the references, ideas and conversations that inform her work. “At a time when so much of our attention is captured by screens, we believe there is real value in creating a physical space dedicated to knowledge, curiosity and reflection.” continues Stubbergaard. “The bookstore is a counterpoint to the increasingly digital life we all navigate. We hope it becomes a place where people can slow down, engage deeply with ideas and leave inspired.”
The bookstore offers an ever-evolving selection of books covering architecture, cities, landscape, design, art and related disciplines. The collection includes books from Danish and international publishers, vintage finds, theoretical works, Cobe’s own publications, and books from mentors and collaborators who have influenced the practice throughout its history. By opening the bookstore, Cobe aims to contribute something meaningful to Copenhagen’s cultural and architectural landscape: a place where books, ideas, coffee and conversation come together under one roof. The bookstore and cafe are open weekdays from 8:30am. to 3:00 p.m.
The Cobe bookstore is located inside the practice’s Copenhagen studio
the site presents a curated selection of architecture, urban planning, landscape and design books
