Header: Michael Rygaard
Garde Hvalsøe, the Danish brand known for its high-quality kitchens and cabinetry, has unveiled a custom test kitchen for Kadeau Copenhagen. This project is the latest collaboration between the company and Nicolai Nørregaard, Head Chef at the two-star Michelin restaurant. Their relationship dates back to 2015 when Garde Hvalsøe crafted Kadeau Copenhagen’s main kitchen. Since then, their partnership has continued to evolve, including a kitchen for Nørregaard’s private home in 2020.
Multifunctional kitchen space
The new test kitchen is located in the heart of Kadeau Copenhagen. It serves as both a functional workspace and a setting where guests can watch the chefs in action. Designed to meet the team’s needs, the kitchen combines practicality with a unique aesthetic.
The centerpiece of the test kitchen is a bespoke Solid kitchen model crafted from HeartOak and light-knotted oak. Apart from the main kitchen, it accommodates up to six guests at a time. During the day, it is a creative lab where chefs experiment with seasonal ingredients and refine their menus. In the evening, it transforms into an intimate dining space for private events and special occasions.
Every detail has a purpose
The kitchen layout was tailored to the chefs’ requests, with every element carefully positioned for efficiency. Inspired by the Front model, a zinc section integrates specialized kitchen machinery unique to Kadeau. The wet zone features zinc cladding, allowing the team to work freely with liquids and staining ingredients without worrying about wear and tear. Over time, the zinc surface will develop a rich patina, adding to the character of the space.
Since fermentation and dehydration play a big role in Kadeau’s dishes, the drawers were designed to store small boxes filled with preserved and foraged ingredients. The kitchen island is taller than standard, ensuring the chefs can work comfortably for long hours.
Additional open shelving provides space for the handcrafted ceramics of Torben Lov, Kadeau’s exclusive ceramicist. Lov’s seasonal pieces, inspired by the restaurant’s menu, are used for serving dishes in both the test and main kitchens.
A cozy and atmospheric dining space
Beyond the kitchen, Garde Hvalsøe also created a dining table, a built-in seating nook, custom bookshelves, and a thoughtful lighting concept. The aim was to make the space feel warm and inviting rather than purely functional. For Nørregaard, atmosphere is just as important as practicality. He wanted a kitchen that would inspire creativity while providing a cozy setting for reflection and collaboration.
This project highlights the strong connection between fine craftsmanship and haute cuisine. Garde Hvalsøe’s dedication to detail and quality aligns perfectly with Kadeau’s philosophy, resulting in a beautiful and highly functional kitchen.
“Since the kitchen is also our private dining room, it needed to be more than just functional; it had to be beautiful, almost like a piece of art. And that’s exactly what we got—something timeless, stunning, and perfectly suited to our space.”
Nicolai Nørregaard, Head Chef at Kadeau
About Garde Hvalsøe
Founded in 1990, Garde Hvalsøe is built on Danish craftsmanship and timeless design principles. The company specializes in bespoke interior solutions, focusing on kitchens that are as practical as they are elegant. Each project reflects a deep commitment to quality materials, expert cabinetmaking, and a passion for creating spaces that will be cherished for generations.
