We would like to share the report from the nottuo members who visited “3daysofdesign,” Scandinavia’s largest design festival, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from June 18th to 20th, 2025.
Known as Scandinavia’s largest design exhibition, “3daysofdesign” featured over 450 exhibiting brands for its 12th installment this year, gaining increasing attention worldwide each year. Many Japanese brands were also seen exhibiting for the first time this year.
To a Pleasant Festival
In mid-June, under a rainy season sky, we left nottuo’s base in Nishi-Awakura Village, Okayama, and arrived in the Danish capital of Copenhagen after a journey of about 16 hours by air.
The sky remained bright even after 10 p.m., and a relaxed sense of time, characteristic of a Nordic summer, flowed through the city.
One of the unique features of “3daysofdesign” is that the exhibition venues are not concentrated in one place. The entire city of Copenhagen becomes the exhibition venue, including galleries, brand showrooms, historic buildings, and warehouses.
While walking through the city, we often saw balloons and signs for “3daysofdesign” at the venues. Since admission to the exhibitions is generally free, tourists could casually drop by, and people from all walks of life, of all ages, from all over the world—not just those in design-related professions—were enjoying this three-day festival of design.
I also visited many exhibitions and events while exploring the city.
From sustainable furniture made of wood and recycled plastic, to breathtakingly beautiful lighting fixtures, and textiles of intricate skill—from up-and-coming designers to major furniture manufacturers, each brand’s dedication and philosophy were meticulously expressed not only in their products but also in their exhibition spaces.
It was three days filled with so many discoveries and encounters—feeling thrilled by the elaborate and beautiful displays, learning from the high-quality designs, and being moved by the creators’ passionate thoughts and enthusiasm.
Overall, my impression was that many brands cherished the sustainable consciousness promoted by “3daysofdesign” and the charm of Nordic craftsmanship.
There was little of the business-like tension typical of trade fairs; instead, I felt a comfortable atmosphere where people and things connected pleasantly. Perhaps the relaxed Nordic culture makes it so.
Smiles Created by Souvenirs
After the festival, we had the opportunity to visit the offices of several local companies.
It was a valuable time to experience the ideas of Nordic companies, such as their innovations in the work environment and their passion for design.
For our trip to Denmark, nottuo designed original disposable chopsticks and presented them as gifts to the people we met.
The packaging featured chopsticks wrapped in Japanese washi paper tied with a mizuhiki cord, accompanied by a message in Danish. Seeing everyone’s reactions of surprise and smiles gave us a real sense of connecting with the world through design.
During our stay in Denmark, we met many creators.
People who make furniture, create ceramics, take photographs, design books, craft scents, and even a chef from one of the world’s top restaurants.
What they all had in common was that they “genuinely enjoy the act of creating.”
We strongly resonated with their attitude and passion, which left us greatly inspired.
Following this visit, we at nottuo will embark on a new challenge in Denmark next year.
What kind of design can we deliver from this small village to people all over the world?
Please look forward to nottuo’s challenge for the world.
