Program
May 8, 2025, 9-23:00
Lokomotivværkstedet
Doors close at 19:00
Talks
The full talk program will be announced during spring 2025.
11.00-11.45
Loud Stage
Erik Nissen
Beyond aesthetics: How design creates destinations
Talk [in English]
Step into a world where design is more than aesthetics – it’s storytelling, theater, and pure experience. Erik Nissen Johansen, founder of the award-winning agency Stylt, has spent decades redefining hospitality design with bold concepts, immersive scenography, and playful creativity. From boutique hotels to visionary resorts, his work transforms spaces into unforgettable destinations.
Join us as Erik shares his unique approach to concept-driven design and how it shapes the future of hospitality and beyond. Expect insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on how spaces can tell stories.
About Erik Nissen
Erik Nissen Johansen is the founder and creative director of Stylt, a globally recognized hospitality design studio based in Gothenburg, Sweden. For over 25 years, he has led Stylt in creating unique hotel and restaurant concepts worldwide, blending storytelling, design, and branding to craft memorable guest experiences.
With a portfolio of more than 400 restaurants and 250 hotels, Erik has shaped hospitality spaces for major brands across the world. Notable projects include Pater Noster Lighthouse (Sweden), Niehku Mountain Villa, The ANDAZ by Hyatt (Dubai), 25h Hotels (Copenhagen & Melbourne), LEGO House (Billund), and Downtown Camper by Scandic (Stockholm).
Born in Oslo in 1965, he studied art, history, marketing, and design in Florence. Erik is a renowned international speaker, sharing insights on hospitality design and branding at global conferences and TEDx.
Photo: Samuel Uneus
11.30-12.00
Silent Stage
Lene Tanggaard
How we create stronger learning cultures
Talk [in Danish]
Organizations depend on their employees’ ability to learn. With the rapid introduction of new technologies, new tasks, changing conditions, and the need to attract new employees, it is crucial for organizations to understand how to build a strong learning culture.
In her talk, Lene will introduce us to the differences between an expansive and a restrictive learning environment, enriched with concrete examples from her research and experience as a consultant in organizations.
About Lene Tanggard
Lene Tanggaard is a psychologist with a Ph.D. in psychology and is currently a professor at Aalborg University in the Department of Communication and Psychology. From 2019 to 2025, she served as the rector of Kolding School of Design, giving her practical leadership experience, including various leadership roles at the university over the years.
12.00-12.45
Loud Stage
Kasper Salto, Pil Bredahl & Saskia Hübner
What is Denmark’s Next Design Classic?
Talk [in Danish]
For the sixth season in a row, Denmark’s Next Design Classic has just aired on DR (Danish Broadcasting Company). This year, the focus has been on getting out into – and closer to – the real world.
In a moderated conversation with judges Pil Bredahl and Kasper Salto, along with designer Saskia Hübner – who won the masterpiece challenge with her sofa Bau22 – we take a closer look at how both site-specific and circular design have become key criteria for what can be considered a new classic in 2025.
About Kasper Salto
Kasper Salto. Born 1967. Graduated in cabinet making in 1988, masterpiece honored with a silver medal. Subsequently he graduated in 1994 from the Danish Design School. As a student he studied at the Art Center, College of Design (Switzerland).
Founded his studio 1998, working with Peter Stærk design, Fritz Hansen A/S, Montana furniture and Onecollection.
Salto has received a number of design awards for his work, The Furniture Prize 2003, RedDot designaward, Finn Juhl prize 2010, Thorvald Bindesbøll medal, German designaward.
Salto & Sigsgaard together won the competition to furnish The Trusteeship Chamber at the UN headquarters, and have subsequently had interior design assignments for, among others, the Danish Academy of Music (Radiohuset), the Pharmacists’ Association in Broadgade and the New Carlsberg Foundation.
About Pil Bredahl
Pil Bredahl graduated in Product and Furniture Design from The Danish Design School in 1997, and earned a Master’s Degree in Design Theory in 2013, writing her a dissertation on design and sustainability.
Since then, she has worked in the experimental sector of the design industry. She was part of the Scandinavian, female-only design group “Kropsholder,” which was founded in the late 1990s, and has recently been working with design as a tool for integration among women immigrants.
She is also a co-founder of the design group FairTradeDesigners.com, created in 2007, which uses the design profession as a social lever to explore and promote sustainable development processes.
Pil also works as a curator and design mediator.
About Saskia Hübner
Saskia Hübner graduated in Interdisciplinary Design from MSD, Germany, in 2016. After building her creative base in Copenhagen, she relocated to Aarhus in 2024. Her experience spans roles at Normann Copenhagen and NIKO JUNE, and today she runs her own studio with collaborations including Aspekt Office and Anne Boysen. Saskia works across furniture, lighting, and interior design—always with a focus on functional storytelling and societal behavior.
In 2024, she founded FORM 22, a studio dedicated to climate communication through design. In 2025, she became the first foreign contestant on Denmark’s next design classic, bringing a cross-cultural design perspective with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
12.30-13.10
Silent Stage
Steffen Max Høgh
Responsibility in the furniture industry: Past, present, and future
Talk [in Danish]
Responsibility in the furniture industry has undergone a significant transformation – from a time of local production and moderate consumption to today’s global economy, where documentation and certifications have become central elements. At the same time, we look ahead to the future of responsibility, where technology and transparency are expected to reshape both consumer influence and corporate strategies.
This talk will explore how responsibility has evolved and how, in the future, it will not only be a business strategy but a requirement for maintaining trust and relevance in the market. Participants will gain insights into how companies – particularly within the furniture industry – can prepare for future challenges and work with sustainability and ESG in a way that creates value for their customers while respecting the planet’s boundaries.
About Steffen Max Høgh
Steffen has spent over a decade bridging the gap between black bottom lines and a greener future. His journey began in 2014 when he founded the company 3R Kontor, where sustainability was integrated into the business from the outset. He later sold the company to Holmris B8, where he served as CSR Director, leveraging his experiences as an entrepreneur, leader, and board member in sustainable business development. He also shares his knowledge and experience as a public speaker, podcast host, and author of the best-selling book “Sustainable Business.”
Today, he serves as the Director at the consultancy firm SustainBusiness, helping Danish companies achieve commercial success and enact real change through their sustainable transition. With over 200 lectures on sustainability and bottom lines under his belt, as well as conversations with over 100 experts and leaders through his podcast, “Sustainable Business,” he remains sharp and well-informed on the latest trends in sustainability and business.
13.00-13.45
Loud Stage
Sebastian Aristoteles
Innovation from space: How extreme architecture can shape the future of building
Talk [in English]
Sebastian Aristotelis, co-founder and lead architect at SAGA Space Architects, brings his experience working with space architecture and 3D-printed structures to Earth-based construction. From prototypes in Greenland’s harsh climate to innovative designs for the Moon, SAGA has created groundbreaking solutions for extreme environments. Their work ranges from 3D-printed concrete structures to the first Danish payload sent to the International Space Station.
In this talk, Sebastian will share how technologies and design principles from space can transform the way we build on Earth. Hear about SAGA’s impressive projects, including the largest 3D-printed building in Scandinavia and their ambitions to prepare us for construction on the Moon—all with a focus on sustainability and new ways of thinking about future building practices.
About Sebastian Aristoteles
Sebastian Aristotelis is 30 years old. He is the lead architect and co-founder of SAGA Space Architects. Which specializes in 3D-printed architecture and habitation for outer space. SAGA has built projects in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Europe, and Northern Greenland. SAGA recently sent its first payload to Outer Space, a lamp for the International Space Station.
Sebastian was part of the two-man crew on the LUNARK expedition where he spent 100 days in isolation by the North Pole, in a Prototype Space Habitat. SAGA has won several awards and holds numerous world records for its architecture, such as the tallest 3D-printed plastic structure at 7 meters tall. Sebastian gives talks around the world about space, architecture, innovation, and his adventures. He was recently selected as Forbes 30 under 30 and one of the top 100 young talents in Denmark.
13.30-14.10
Silent Stage
Anette Hedegaard
The Future Hospital Experience — Designed for People
Talk [in Danish]
How do we create a hospital experience that is based on the needs of patients, relatives, and staff?
Anette Hedegaard, designer and project manager at MARYS, offers a unique insight into the development of Mary Elizabeth’s Hospital – a new hospital for children, adolescents, pregnant women, and their families. With a focus on testing and user involvement, the hospital’s physical environment, digital solutions, and cultural behavior are being shaped.
We dive into concrete tests and design solutions that create real value and share three key insights on how design can contribute to greater security, efficiency, and better experiences in healthcare.
About Anette Hedegaard
Anette Hedegaard is designer and Project Lead in MARYS.
Anette Hedegaard has a background from the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Design, and solid experience with projects in the healthcare sector, bringing an ambitious approach to solving complex challenges and designing for and with the hospital’s families and staff.
14.00-14.45
Loud Stage
Thomas Lykke
Japanese Design Round Trip
Talk [in English]
The fascination with Japan is nothing new in Scandinavia, but it is a destination that an increasing number of Danes are drawn to. In this talk with designer and co-founder of OEO Studio, Thomas Lykke, we embark on a design journey to Japan through the eyes of a Scandinavian. What is it about Japan and Japanese design that, after almost 20 years, still captivates and inspires a Danish designer in his work with clients like Sony and the Danish restaurant Noma?
About Thomas Lykke
Head of Design and Founding Partner Thomas Lykke from OEO Studio trained as a fashion designer in Copenhagen and San Francisco before turning to the design industry where he has worked as Interiors editor at Wallpaper* Magazine. In 2003, he founded OEO Studio with Anne-Marie Buemann. OEO Studio is an internationally renowned multidisciplinary studio credited with redefining contemporary Scandinavian style. Their signature approach masterfully infuses Danish heritage with Asian aesthetics, creating environments and experiences deeply rooted in history, location, and culture. With over 20 years of experience in the design industry, Thomas has earned a strong reputation for his passion and commitment to delivering true impact. Thomas is also a member of the Danish Design Council since 2015.
14.30-15.10
Silent Stage
Kristina May
AI & Human Creativity — What’s the Future?
Talk [in English]
How does artificial intelligence impact our creative processes – and what does it mean for us as humans? As technology rapidly advances and takes on both practical and creative tasks, we must consider where that leaves us.
Brand strategist and CEO of AM Copenhagen, Kristina May, explores AI’s role in our creative work. What is it that humans still excel at? How can we use AI as a tool to enhance our creativity rather than replace it? And should we let technology shape our world, or should we take control and design our own future?
If we succeed in turning the interaction between humans and machines into an inspiring collaboration, we may be on the verge of a new era of creativity.
About Kristina May
Kristina is co-owner, CEO, and brand strategist at AM Copenhagen, where she advises companies and startups on brand strategy, business development, and design. She holds a degree from the Royal Danish Academy and has extensive experience in design thinking, brand building, and leadership across various industries.
As a specialist in brand positioning and identity development, Kristina serves as an executive advisor to brand owners both in Denmark and internationally. She is a member of the Danish Design Council, a keynote speaker, and sits on the board of four companies, including Plantorama and Stelton. Additionally, she hosts the podcast Design kan, which ranks as Denmark’s number one podcast on design and branding.
16.00-16.45
Loud Stage
Tina-Henriette Kristiansen
Space as a laboratory: Designing for a changing world
Talk [in Danish]
Architect Tina-Henriette Kristiansen has spent over 20 years working with space architecture for NASA – from space stations to Mars habitats – where extreme, closed environments require radical rethinking and circular solutions. Here, resilience is not an ambition, but a necessity.
In this talk, she shares how technologies and design principles from space – such as upcycling, material splitting, and total resource utilization – are now being applied on Earth. And how experiences from the universe’s most extreme environments can inspire new paths toward sustainability and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
About Tina-Henriette Kristiansen
Tina-Henriette Kristiansen is an architect, Ph.D. fellow, and has spent over 20 years researching and collaborating with NASA on design for extreme environments — including Mars habitats and space stations. She holds a Master’s degree from the Aarhus School of Architecture and has taught and led international programs on space architecture. With a specialization in circular design principles and space technologies, she now focuses on transferring knowledge from space research to solutions for Earth’s climate challenges.
Host
Ane Cortzen
Architect, tv host & moderator
About Ane Cortzen
Ane Cortzen, a Danish architect, TV host, and moderator, has held various titles throughout her career. She previously served as the Cultural Director at the design company Kähler, the Design Director at DR (Danish Broadcasting Corporation) and was a host and program developer at DR Kultur. Ane Cortzen has been associated with shows such as TV!TV!TV!, Vogternes Råd, and Søndag Live.
Since 2019, Ane Cortzen has been an independent professional, working on several programs including “Er der en arkitekt til stede” (Is There an Architect Present?), Danmarks Næste Portrætmaler (Denmark’s Next Portrait Painter), and Byernes Mester (Master of Cities). Additionally, she is the director and co-founder of Arka, an international video-based platform dedicated to discussing and showcasing architecture in an engaging manner.
Rikke Skytte
Human researcher, designer & speaker
About Rikke Skytte
As a researcher and designer specializing in design grounded in human needs and wellbeing, Rikke serves as a compass in an ever-changing reality where human needs continuously evolve.
With over 20 years of experience as a researcher, practicing designer, and speaker, she has delivered numerous keynote talks, contributed to various publications, and collaborated with leading Danish and international architecture firms, design studios, agencies, museum institutions, and production companies.
For the past nine years, she has run her own company: Rikke Skytte, where she explores and communicates future and human-centered insights, that helps and support everything from strategy and concept development to product design and interior projects — including work with human-centered color, shape, and material composition. As a big part of her practice, Rikke also takes on roles as a moderator, host, and speaker, bringing knowledge to life and creating meaningful dialogue around Human, design, and the future.
Photo: Anne Bråtveit
Frederik Hinz Andersen
Arrchitect, designer & entrepreneur
About Frederik Hinz Andersen
Frederik Hinz Andersen is an architect and designer. He spent 10 years working as a top-level designer in the core team behind Bang & Olufsen.
As Head of Entrepreneurship and Assistant Professor at the Royal Danish Academy – Architecture, Design and Conservation – he founded the academy’s startup support and built an inspiring entrepreneurial startup community.
In addition to being a speaker and moderator, Frederik is currently an external lecturer in product development at DTU – the Technical University of Denmark – working with innovation, technology, and sustainable solutions.
As founder of the NGO OCEAN FLAGSHIPS, he combines technology and entrepreneurship with a passion for the ocean. The organization operates as a floating innovation hub, promoting sustainable solutions with the ocean as a driving force in the green transition.
Anniversary popups
Nicoline Toft
Nicoline Toft will create the perfect soundscape for the anniversary atmosphere in the New Works Space. Here, her love of electronic soulful rhythms will set the tone with a loungy yet energetic soundtrack for the day.
As a DJ, Nicoline Toft brings a wide-ranging palette, having opened for Linkin Park in Las Vegas and performed at major corporate events, exclusive private parties, and festivals.
Service Projects
Start your morning Italian-style at Service Project’s espresso bar in the New Works Space. Service Project is known for their thoughtful approach to objects, spaces, and service — and you’ll feel it in every cup.
Whether you need a moment to wake up before exploring the venue or just a mid-morning break, this is the place to do it.
Flowerism Studio
This year, Flowerism Studio’s enchanting artificial flowers will transform Lokomotivværkstedet.
Artificial flowers have a bad reputation, but can be a more sustainable solution than fresh flowers. Flowerism creates high-quality flowers that can be reused in new arrangements time and time again, with a vision reducing overconsumption in the floral industry.
Christian Bruun CPH
Christian Bruun CPH creates beautiful one-of-a-kind ceramic planters. Massive, mobile and modular, the planters are designed to make greenery a natural part of any interior.
Discover Christian Bruun’s planters, vases, and pots throughout the event, where he collaborates with Flowerism Studio to showcase how ceramics and artifical florals complement each other.
Design kan
Design Kan, Denmark’s leading design podcast, will be recording live at Trends & Traditions 2025. Here, host and CEO of AM Copenhagen, Kristina May, will spotlight the most significant trends in the design industry.
Through engaging conversations with leading brands, designers, architects, and creative professionals, Design Kan examines how design shapes our world – from aesthetics and functionality to sustainability and innovation.
Almeja Space
Get creative with Almeja Space. Experts in handmade paper art and styling, Almeja Space brings vibrant designs to showrooms, events, and displays.
Come craft your own unique paper flower. Pin it on your clothes, or help make our anniversary beautiful by contributing to the communal flower pot.
Denmark's next design classic
Experience first-hand the winning designs and a selection of other entries from the Danish TV show ‘Denmark’s Next Design Classic’ up close.
Chat with the daring and fast-thinking designers about the creative process and their visions for the design classics of the future.
Food & beverages
All day long, you can treat yourself to something tasty from the food tents in the (hopefully) sunny garden.
Whether you prefer cappuccino, flat white, latte macchiato, or a double-shot espresso, a team of talented baristas will be ready to serve you from their coffee trucks throughout Lokomotivværkstedet.
Socioeconomic stands
Social Foodies
Social Foodies is a values-driven company with the goal of fighting inequality in the global food chains. They will be serving high-quality delicious treats made using ingredients sourced with a commitment to social sustainability.
People Like Us
People Like Us is a Danish brewing company with a social agenda. The company was founded by two brothers, Lars and Jesper Carlsen, in 2016, and is run by people from socially marginalized groups. Stating that boxes are for beer, not for people, People Like Us believe that society cannot afford to exclude those who do not fit into the standardized job market boxes.
People Like us prove that you can run a for-profit company while making social impact – and, of course, while making wonderful beer.
Kofoeds Skole
Kofoeds School provides help for self-help to socially vulnerable and unemployed people. This has been the school’s ambition since 1928, and today it operates branches in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, and Nuuk in Greenland.
At Trends & Traditions, the students of Kofoeds School will be offering samples of homemade apple juice and honey.
Kaffe Karma
Kaffe Karma is a community of volunteer coffee enthusiasts and socially vulnerable individuals who have come together to serve a good cup of coffee.
The organization helps people take the first steps to build confidence in their abilities, creating a pathway to regular jobs and education.
The world's most travelled hotdog stand
Hus Forbi
At Trends & Traditions, all proceeds from recycled bottles and cans (pant) are donated to Hus Forbi – a Danish street paper and social initiative that supports people experiencing homelessness.
Hus Forbi works to give vulnerable individuals a voice, an income, and a sense of community through employment, advocacy, and outreach.
Bus
Trends & Traditions offer free bus trips to and from the event from Fyn and Jutland.
You can reserve your bus seat as you place your ticket order.
Towards Lokomotivværkstedet
- 6:30 Departure from Aarhus
Thomas Jensens Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C, at the bus stops - 7:15 Departure from Horsens
Dyrskuepladsen, Hattingvej 6, 8700 Horsens - 7:45 Departure from Middelfart
At Jyllandsvej 101, 5500 Middelfart, at the parking spaces for large vehicles - 8:30 Departure from Odense
Svendborgvej 102, 5260 Odense S, at the bus bay just before the roundabout - 10:30 Arrival at Lokomotivværkstedet
Return departures to Fyn and Jylland at 18:30
- 18:30. Departure from Lokomotivværkstedet towards Aarhus
- 20:30 Arrival in Odense
Svendborgvej 102, 5260 Odense S, at the bus bay just before the roundabout - 21:15 Arrival in Middelfart
At Jyllandsvej 101, 5500 Middelfart, at the parking spaces for large vehicles - 21:45 Arrival in Horsens
Dyrskuepladsen, Hattingvej 6, 8700 Horsens - 22:30 Arrival in Aarhus
Thomas Jensens Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C, at the bus stops