Collecting examples of modern and contemporary design has become a hot genre in the last few years. The popularity of "celebrity" architects and designers has pushed the concept of aesthetics in functional objects into the mainstream - just visit your local Target store to see some examples by the likes of Michael Graves and Izaac Mizrahi.

So in this issue we visit one of the birthplaces of modern design, Denmark's capital city of Copenhagen. Known for it's historic charm, Denmark has been, and is today, one of the hotbeds of ergonomic and aesthetic design principals - from the furniture and architecture of Arne Jacobsen and the silver of Georg Jensen to Bang & Olufsen electronics and Lego toys.

Danish Design Center
H. C. Andersens Blvd. 27
Copenhagen, 1553

A great place to start your design tour of Copenhagen is the Danish Design Center in the center of the city. After viewing the exhibits, drop by Cafe Dansk to enjoy modern takes on traditional Danish cuisine. And don't miss the DDC shop which focuses on products related to "traveling light."

The Opera
Ekvipagemestervej 10
Copenhagen, 1438

The Opera opened in 2005 and stands as a prime example of a renaissance of contemporary architectural design. The building commands an imposing presence on the canal directly across from the Royal Palace. Performances at The Opera, besides operatic fare, include those of the Royal Danish Ballet, the Royal Danish Symphony and the occasional pop concert. Book a guided tour of the facility to fully appreciate the splendor of this great building.