THE ATMOSPHERE AT KLITGAARDEN
Rooms
All rooms at Klitgaarden have names—Crown Prince, Jewels, Chamber Footman, Church—reflecting the views they offer or their historical uses. This charming naming tradition connects the past with the present for contemporary guests. Klitgaarden provides a total of 14 rooms located on the ground and first floors, each equipped with a bed, a closet, and a workspace. Most rooms have private bathrooms, while four rooms share two bathrooms.
It’s not uncommon for returning artists and researchers to choose the same room each time they visit, mainly due to the appealing views, abundant natural light, and established routines. While the atmosphere can be noisy – this is part of the charm of an old house – the consideration for tranquillity is deeply ingrained in the spirit of Klitgaarden. If you prefer a more social environment, it’s essential to select a spot that minimises disturbances to other residents.
Dining room
The dining room is the heart of Klitgaarden. Centrally located within the building, it features a long dining table that serves as a focal point for inspiring conversations. Meals shared here embody the essence of this retreat; they are not merely breaks from work but serve as a foundation for socialising and dialogue. This social aspect occurs naturally, providing an opportunity to share knowledge, inspiration, and insights. The meals prepared by Klitgaarden's skilled kitchen staff are delightful, made with local, seasonal produce. It's hard not to feel excited and energised before returning to work.
When Klitgaarden was built, painter and craftsman Harald Slott-Møller designed 55 ceramic plates that adorn the shelf above the wainscoting in the hall. The motifs on these plates showcase various themes, including the coats of arms from Denmark's market towns, zodiac signs, and folk costumes. They were produced at Aluminia, a faience factory in Copenhagen. This row of plates decorates the dining room, infusing the space with history while new stories continue to unfold. Built-in benches along the windows invite guests to take a quiet moment to read the newspaper, journal their thoughts, or reflect while gazing at the sea and sky.
Nature
In the spirit of communal living, visitors are happy to share their experiences. The changing seasons play a crucial role in understanding the nature surrounding Klitgaarden. In summer, the weather is mild and sunny; in autumn, it becomes windy and tumultuous; in winter, it can be raw, dark, and perhaps covered in snow; and in spring, the landscape is vibrant and lively. Klitgaarden reflects the essence of the weather, just as its visitors do, depending on when they stay in the royal villa.
In the social synergy of the refuge spirit, users are happy to share their experiences. The seasons are crucial for the experience of nature and Klitgaarden. In the summer, mild and sunny. In the autumn, windy and violent. In the winter, raw, dark and perhaps snow-white. In the spring, budding and effervescent. Klitgaarden lives with the nature of the weather, just as the users do, depending on when they stay in Kongevillaen.
Studio
Nestled between the dunes and the sea breeze, at a short distance from the main house, are Klitgaarden's three studios, which occupy the former royal garages. Each studio is bright and straightforward, featuring skylights, kitchenettes, and views of nature.
This tranquil environment offers ample space for contemplation, regardless of an artist's focus. One studio includes a printing press, while another is equipped with a ceramic kiln and turntable, providing flexible workshop spaces where artists can work thoughtfully and draw inspiration from their surroundings.
