Vilhelm Lauritzen Arkitekter (VLA) is a Copenhagen-based architectural firm established in 1922 by Vilhelm Lauritzen. The firm has played a significant role in Danish modernism, initially under Lauritzen’s leadership until 1969. VLA’s early work was instrumental in introducing functionalist architecture to Denmark, where design choices prioritized usability and simplicity over ornamentation.
Throughout its history, VLA has delivered notable buildings such as the original Copenhagen Airport terminal (1939), Radiohuset in Frederiksberg (1945), Folkets Hus—now Vega—in Copenhagen (1956), and later, Terminal 3 at Copenhagen Airport (1995). These projects reflect the firm’s long tradition of influencing public architecture, and some of Lauritzen’s concepts, like the division of airport buildings into ‘landside’ and ‘airside,’ have become international standards.
In recent years, VLA continues its broad scope of work, covering urban, residential, and cultural projects. For example, Kronløb Island—a car-free residential development completed in 2023 in collaboration with Cobe—adds 32,400 square meters of housing and public space to Nordhavn. Another recent project, Tip of Nordø, is a circular waterfront office building with a public garden, awarded as one of Copenhagen’s best new buildings in 2025. The practice is also engaged in master planning, evidenced by projects like Carlsberg Plot 8 and educational facilities such as the European School in Carlsberg.
VLA’s portfolio now embodies over a century of architectural evolution in Copenhagen, marked by landmark projects, cross-national collaborations, and recognition in architectural awards. The office is noted for shaping the built environment with a focus on lasting utility and public accessibility.