Who we are
Since 1932, the Fondation danoise has provided Danish students in Paris with a welcoming and comfortable home.Thousands of young people have stayed at the house, including many who later distinguished themselves in fields as diverse as the arts, humanities, politics and business.
With its warm atmosphere and cosmopolitan character, the Fondation danoise encourages cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
History
“ A building that […] with its brilliantly executed masonry, generous common areas and graceful Kaj Gottlob-designed furniture, feels like a fragment of Denmark in Paris. ”
Holger Dahl
Histoire de
la Fondation danoise
The construction of the Fondation danoise was financed through both public and private funds.
In 1928, a group of visionary individuals established the Committee for the Danish Foundation and worked towards building a residence for Danish students at the Cité internationale universitaire de Paris.
Despite difficult economic circumstances, the Committee persuaded the Danish State to contribute 200,000 Danish kroner on the condition that an equivalent amount could be raised privately.
The project generated considerable national enthusiasm. The fundraising campaign exceeded expectations and ultimately raised 435,000 kroner.
The foundation stone was laid in 1929, and the House was inaugurated in 1932 in the presence of Crown Prince Frederik, the future King Frederik IX, French President Paul Doumer, and other distinguished guests.
The architect
“It is in the cramped but beautifully realized common areas that Kaj Gottlob seriously showcased his talents. ”
Holger Dhal
Kaj Gottlob (1897-1976)
The architect of the House, Kaj Gottlob (1897–1976), who was also a professor and Royal Building Inspector, was one of the most distinguished architects of his generation.
He is known for works such as Sankt Lukas Kirke in Århus, Knippelsbro, Skolen ved Sundet, and numerous buildings for Københavns Universitet. He was also highly regarded for his furniture and silverware designs.
The House combines the classical influences of Gottlob’s early career with the Nordic functionalism of the interwar period. The result is an architecture that is at once simple, rigorous and welcoming.
The rooms are spacious and pleasant, the corridors wide and bright, and the large outdoor terrace with its pergola provides an ideal setting for social life from spring through autumn.
Patronage
“ The Danish Student House holds a special place in my heart and it is with a great sense of pride that I am its patron. ”
Her Royal Highness Princess Marie of Denmark
Since its inauguration, the Fondation danoise has enjoyed the support of the Danish Royal Family.
The future King Frederik IX served as patron of the House for many years. Queen Margrethe II succeeded him in 1972. Since 2014, the patron has been Her Royal Highness Princess Marie.
Support us
The Fondation danoise receives an annual grant from the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science, but it has always relied on the support of numerous private donors for major renovation and maintenance projects.
Major renovation work carried out in 2014–2015 was made possible through donations from:
- A.P. Møller og Hustru Chastine Mc-Kinney Møllers Fond
- Knud Højgaards Fond
- Augustinus Fonden
- Konsul George Jorck og Hustru Emma Jorcks Fond
- ANT Foundation
- Nicolai og Felix Fonden
- Dronning Margrethes og Prins Henriks Fond
In 2022, the Fondation danoise acquired a painting by John Kørner thanks to support from Ny Carlsbergfondet.
In 2022, support for the creation of a musical masterclass was provided by:
- Beckett Fonden
- Augustinus Fonden
- Knud Højgaards Fond
In 2025, the House acquired a Steinway piano thanks to support from Augustinus Fonden.
The restoration of Kræsten Iversen’s murals was made possible through donations from:
- Gangstedfonden
- Augustinus Fonden
- Ny Carlsbergfondet
The production, publication and release of our book on Kaj Gottlob, published by Still, was supported by:
- Dronning Margrethes og Prins Henriks Fond
- Realdania
- Aage og Johanne Louis-Hansens Fond
- Beckett Fonden
- Konsul George Jorck og Hustru Emma Jorcks Fond
- Arne V. Schleschs Fond
We extend our sincere gratitude to all these foundations.
Donors
The Fondation danoise warmly thanks the many foundations and private individuals whose generosity over the years has enabled the House to flourish and continue serving future generations of residents.
Donations are tax-deductible. Contributions of all sizes are welcomed with gratitude.
