Stretching over 215 square metres, Anne’s Frederiksberg apartment, which she shares with her husband Christian, 52, and their sons Asger, 17, and Max, 12, is also home to her eponymous art gallery. Here, they live alongside artistic works – sculptures, paintings and ceramics created by contemporary Danish artists — handpicked by Anne.
“Art has always been my passion. I grew up with it. I have a master’s in Art History and have worked with art in various ways over the years,” Anne explains.
“In addition to my gallery, I co-run Kunstsalonen, a pop-up art gallery of sorts where we arrange public art exhibitions in private homes.”
As an informal gallery for art and exhibitions, Anne’s often redecorates her home, displaying new artworks and moving furniture around. Approaching the space room by room, it evolves organically and doesn’t follow any rules or formula. “Often, a solo exhibition will change the dynamics of the space quite a lot. As my gallery is also my private home I only exhibit the pieces that I love and would want to own myself. In this way, my gallery is very personal and matches my taste.”
The spacious living area, originally two separate rooms, is the hub of Anne’s gallery – at one end, book-filled shelving modules, gallery wall and office, the other a calm oasis of modern sofas and classic armchair designs. Kept in a palette of soothing neutrals enlivened by sculptures and colourful artworks, light from the large French door windows floods the room. “I love to sit by the corner windows and gaze out to the street below,” she muses. Layered tufted wool rugs and tactile materials up the comfort level while vintage design – including Hans J. Wegner’s China Chair and CH25 Lounge Chair – stand alongside modern pieces such as ferm LIVING’s Rico Lounge Chair and Rotben Sculptural Piece. Beyond the art on display, Anne’s favourite objects include a vintage Hans J. Wegner conference table that is now used as a desk. Gifted to her by her late father, “it reminds me of my dad, who is sorely missed,” she says. “I’ve had it for years but still love it and sit at it every day.”
Anne and Christian took over the expansive space in 2019, quickly realising its potential. “We fell in love with the light, the view and the beautiful old windows. The street has an almost Parisian vibe, lined with old trees, cafes and with the park at the top,” she explains. The family wanted to create a home in motion, but one that is for use, not just for show. Keeping the period features that lend the space character —wood-panelled walls that now serve as display shelves for art and decorative ceiling cornice – they set about creating a family home that is comfortable yet inspiring.
With a steady stream of teenagers, family, friends and clients, her home is very much put to the test. From the patina of the original wood floors to the holes in the walls from sold art pieces, it bears witness to the life lived there. “My home is used for a lot of things – and I like it that way. To me, a good home is one filled with good people, a relaxed atmosphere and when you are not afraid of using the home. And of course, I love to live with beautiful and interesting art. It keeps both my eyes and my mind alert. I just hope people feel welcome and inspired when they visit,” she muses.
But opening a home to others can present challenges: “Sometimes I feel that everything is a mess at home – if the kids are sick or I’ve been to a party. Even when I’m tired I must keep it a little nice looking or it becomes too private,” Anne admits. And what is it like for the family to live in a home that is also a public space? “I like having so many kinds of people coming here. It’s a privilege to be surrounded by beautiful art all the time – although it can be difficult let go of certain pieces when they find new homes.” While her husband and sons are mostly understanding of the swing-door nature of their home and appreciate the art, “sometimes I forget to mention that I have client appointments and they run into strangers in the kitchen when waking up and getting their breakfast!” she laughs.