case

La Cabra

Nordhavn

details

architect
Mikkel Selmer, Jacob Hessner Ørnstedt and Thomas Stabell.
location
Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
year
2025
amenities
Café
Coffee roastery

background

Industrial heritage
in the Red City

In Copenhagen’s revitalised Nordhavn district, a former industrial red-brick warehouse now houses La Cabra Nordhavn, a coffee roastery where craftsmanship, atmosphere, and material honesty come together. As the area evolves from working port to vibrant urban neighbourhood, the building’s original character has been carefully preserved, allowing history to remain present in every detail.

For Jacob Hessner Ørnstedt and Mikkel Selmer, architects behind several of La Cabra’s locations, each project begins with a careful understanding of place and context. “We do not impose a fixed aesthetic; instead, we adapt our shared architectural language to each site. Local materials, craftsmanship, and the rhythm of the space shape the final expression, making each café unique. At the same time, core principles – clarity, material honesty, and restraint – ensure that every location feels unmistakably La Cabra”, says Jacob and Mikkel.

Throughout the café, d line’s lever handles, taps, accessories, and barrier-free solutions in AISI 316 stainless steel quietly support the experience. Chosen for durability, minimalistic expression, and reliability in high-use environments, the products integrate naturally into the calm interior. Rooted in Danish design tradition since 1971 and supported by a 20-year warranty, they are made to perform as part of everyday routines.

Simplicity and long-term usability guided the choice of fittings, as Jacob and Mikkel explain; “For hardware and bathroom fittings, we sought products that combine simplicity, durability, and subtle elegance. d line met these criteria perfectly – their products are refined, understated, and precise, with a clarity that complements our architectural approach. Functionality was equally important; we needed solutions that are intuitive, reliable, and effortless in daily use.”

This alignment also reflects a shared design philosophy centred on restraint and longevity; “d line products appeal to us because they share our philosophy: simplicity, honesty, and longevity. Their designs are thoughtful without being showy, durable without compromising on detail, and adaptable to a variety of spaces. This alignment of values – functional elegance, material integrity, and timeless design – makes d line a natural partner in bringing La Cabra’s vision to life.”

Barrier-free and sanitary ware.

The L lever handle and toilet indicator.

The built-in tap in stainless steel.

The sensor tap in stainless steel.

The same long-term perspective shaped the broader material strategy, where sustainability is treated as an integrated part of the design process. “Sustainability is central to our approach. We select materials that age gracefully, require minimal maintenance, and can withstand daily use, reducing the need for replacement over time. Wherever possible, we prioritize locally sourced materials and products that minimize environmental impact while maintaining quality and durability. This approach ensures that the cafés we build are not only beautiful, but responsible and enduring.”

Inside the roastery, original brick structures sit alongside wood, stone, and steel elements, creating a balanced dialogue between past and present. Carefully composed material transitions contribute to a calm and cohesive atmosphere where architecture supports the rhythm of daily rituals. Heritage structure, contemporary craftsmanship, and enduring materials come together in a space designed to perform beautifully for years to come.