Admiral Hotel – A historic landmark in the heart of Copenhagen
Admiral Hotel was constructed in 1787 and designed by Danish architect and military engineer Ernst Peymann. At the time, it served as a grain warehouse for the Crown and could hold up to 30,000 barrels of grain. The two original warehouses that made up the structure played a central role in maritime trade and were an important part of industrial Copenhagen in the late 18th century.
In 1885, the warehouses were joined into one long, cohesive building that came to define the harbourfront with its distinctive architecture and solid construction of brick and oak beams. For many years, the building stood as an icon of Copenhagen’s commercial life. However, as times changed, it lost its original function and was eventually left vacant.
In the early 1970s, the potential of the historic building was rediscovered. A group of private investors purchased the property in 1973 with the vision of transforming it into a modern hotel – while maintaining deep respect for its history and architecture. Architects Flemming Hertz and Ole Ramsgaard Thomsen led the transformation, carefully preserving and integrating original elements such as the massive wooden beams, vaulted ceilings, and raw brickwork into the building’s new function. The final result was met with great acclaim and was awarded the prestigious Europa Nostra Diploma in 1979 for an outstanding restoration project.
On January 15, 1978, Admiral Hotel officially opened its doors. Since then, it has been a popular choice for both Danish and international guests seeking a hotel experience beyond the ordinary – where the atmosphere of the past goes hand in hand with modern comfort.
Over the years, the hotel has undergone several updates and improvements. In 2004, the rooms and common areas were renovated, and most recently, the ground floor has seen a comprehensive modernization, including the establishment of new meeting facilities, a reception area, and the restaurant aye aye, which adds a contemporary social and culinary gathering point to the house.
Today, Admiral Hotel is a harmonious blend of historical detail and Scandinavian design. You can still feel the character of the original warehouse in the exposed beams and raw surfaces, yet you’re met with modern facilities and warm, professional hospitality. This is a place where history isn’t just something you see it’s something you feel.
You can read more about the history of Admiral Hotel here.