Dinesen Country Home by Mentze Ottenstein
Copenhagen-based architecture and design studio Mentze Ottenstein has transformed a historic Danish longhouse into a sophisticated guesthouse and contemporary showroom for Dinesen, Denmark's foremost manufacturer of high-end wooden flooring.
Just steps away from Dinesen's headquarters and production facilities, the historic Dinesen Country Home sits amid verdant forestry, meadows, and lakes in Jels, Denmark. Dating back to 1885, the property exemplifies traditional southern Jutland architecture with its distinctive thatched roof. Known as "f. Solbakkegaard" in Danish, the property's historical significance is deeply intertwined with Dinesen's heritage, having been originally built using locally sourced materials, including bricks made from clay extracted from the surrounding moraine landscape.
The renovation marks a significant transition for the property, which has served multiple roles within the Dinesen legacy since its acquisition in 2004. Initially functioning as the family's private residence for 15 years, the house later evolved into a company-representative space before its current incarnation as a guesthouse primarily hosting design clients and industry partners, with plans to potentially open for public bookings in the future.
Prior to Mentze Ottenstein's intervention, the house underwent an initial restoration by architect Jørgen Overby in the early 2000s, who meticulously reinstated original architectural elements including the thatched roof, historic windows, dormers, and traditional carpentry features. The recent renovation by Mentze Ottenstein builds upon Overby's foundational work, introducing nuanced material selections and ornamental qualities while preserving the original framework.
The design duo has created distinctive atmospheres throughout the interconnected spaces, employing a sophisticated color strategy that progresses through the house. "We've maintained a consistent colour for door frames and ceiling beams while introducing a gradient from room to room," explain Mathias Mentze and Alexander Ottenstein. This chromatic journey culminates in what was formerly a family living room, now transformed into an intimate dark-walled library. The renovation extends to the kitchen, where handcrafted Garde Hvalse cabinets are finished in a verdant green that references the surrounding countryside, while the first floor features intimate spaces painted in warm golden ochre.
Wood remains the protagonist in the material narrative, showcased through the architectural Pawson Furniture Collection in Douglas fir, which harmoniously coexists with antique pieces and bespoke furniture designed by Mentze Ottenstein. The studio's custom pieces feature ash wood with an amber-toned oil finish, complemented by deeper-toned walnut and pear wood elements that create a nuanced contrast with light Douglas flooring.
The project incorporates collaborations with numerous Scandinavian designers and artisans. Lighting solutions by Christian+ Jade and Wästberg complement Nina Norgaard's staircase and glass elements, while Cassetta provides mirrors and frames, and RonholtKurz contributes seating. Jamb London was commissioned to source period antiques that reinforce the historical narrative.
Hans Peter Dinesen, the fifth-generation brand director, envisions the renovated Country Home as more than just a preservation project. Dating back to 1885, the estate represents a continuing narrative of family heritage, agricultural connection, and woodworking tradition. The renovation aims to create a dynamic space that will host numerous events while maintaining its historical significance.
"A space is like a portrait of its inhabitants," reflects Mentze Ottenstein, emphasizing their vision for a living, breathing environment that will continue to evolve. The studio anticipates the space being enriched over time with books, textiles, and furniture pieces from Dinesen's network of collaborators.
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