Today, Berlin is one of the world’s most vibrant art gallery scenes. Therefore, this metropolitan art Mecca was an obvious choice when Mikael Andersen, three years ago, was looking to establish another gallery. For more than 20 years, he has run the respected “Galerie Mikael Andersen” in Copenhagen, which exhibits Danish and international contemporary art.

In the Prenzlauer Berg neighbourhood in former East Berlin, Mikael Andersen found a building from the 1800s, which previously contained a brewery. Only after extensive renovation he was able to open the doors to this 250-square-metre art venue with works by recognised artists from around the world.

Above the gallery is Mikael Andersen’s own flat, which clearly reflects the owner’s profound passion for art and design as well as his Danish background. The interior revolves around Scandinavian design. Old classics as well as new designs adorn the home, including a table by Poul Kjærholm, a candle holder by Mogens Lassen and lamps and Swan chairs by Arne Jacobsen.

The flat has wide Douglas planks from Dinesen throughout. Along with the general style of the interior design, the light and harmonious flooring with the clean lines form a beautiful and elegant background for the expressive art works that dominate the decor. The art works come from all over the world, although there is a particular emphasis on German, Danish, Japanese and South African art, including a large collection of West German Ceramics from the 1960s.

In addition to the gallery and the flat, Mikael Andersen also has a home and a studio available for visiting artists who would like an inspirational stay in Berlin. Thus, the old industrial building is still in the business of producing stimulants, albeit with very different ingredients.

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