The International Student's Guide to Furnishing Fun in Aarhus

Picture this: You’ve just landed in Aarhus, adrenaline pumping, excitement soaring... only to realize your room is unfurnished and lacks comfort and a home-like feeling. Fear not, dear student, for I’m here to guide you through the wild world of furniture procurement in Denmark’s second-largest city.

In the heart of Aarhus lies a bustling ecosystem of thrift stores, flea markets, and online platforms brimming with pre-loved treasures waiting to find their forever homes. This is where the magic happens - where sustainability meets style in a whirlwind romance of second-hand chic.

1. Online - Imagine you're browsing through GulogGratis.dk when you stumble upon a listing for a vintage dresser that speaks to your soul. With just a few clicks, you've secured yourself a one-of-a-kind piece that not only adds character to your room but also reduces your carbon footprint in the process. It's a win-win for both you and the planet!
2. Facebook Groups - Another option is to join Facebook groups where international students like you sell their own furniture, either because they want to get rid of it, or because their adventure in Aarhus has come to an end. This is another opportunity to give furniture a second life. I would highly recommend to join one of Aarhus' biggest groups for second-hand finds named “Aarhus International Buy & Sell”.
3. REUSE - Aarhus is home to REUSE, a haven for eco-conscious souls looking to give old furniture a new lease on life. Here, you can drop off items you no longer need and browse through a treasure trove of pre-owned goodies, guilt-free. From funky furnishings to timeless treasures, REUSE has it all... and it's free!
4. Storskrald - 'Storskrald' (aka bulk trash), is where locals casually toss out perfectly good furniture, just waiting for someone like you to rescue it from its roadside fate.

Now, let's talk retail therapy - Danish-style. Whether you're a fan of minimalist Scandinavian designs or prefer something with a bit more flair, Aarhus has you covered with its array of retail giants ready to fulfill your every furnishing fantasy.

1. First up, we have the iconic IKEA, a mecca for furniture aficionados worldwide. From stylish sofas to space-saving storage solutions, IKEA offers everything you need to turn your dorm room or apartment into a Pinterest-worthy paradise. Plus, with their convenient home delivery service, you can skip the hassle of hauling furniture on your own and focus on more important things - like assembling that notoriously tricky bookshelf.
2. And let's not forget about Jysk, Silvan, and Ilva - three more retail darlings guaranteed to make your furnishing dreams come true. Whether you're in the market for a plush mattress, a sleek dining table, or a statement piece that screams "Scandinavian chic," these stores have got you covered. And with options for home delivery and even FreeTrailer rentals, furnishing your new digs has never been easier or more fun!

Are you wondering how to transport your precious and exciting second-hand/new furniture? Aarhus offers a plethora of options to help you transport your newfound treasures with ease.

1. For the eco-conscious explorer, there's nothing quite like a cargo bike - the two-wheeled steed of choice for savvy students looking to reduce their carbon footprint while navigating the city streets. With its sturdy frame and ample storage space, a cargo bike is the perfect companion for hauling furniture from point A to point B, all while enjoying the fresh Danish air and scenic views along the way.
2. FreeTrailer - Do you require something with a bit more horsepower - or should I say, pedal power? In that case, look no further than Silvan or IKEA, where you can rent a trailer for free with your purchase or for a nominal fee if you're just in need of a temporary transport solution. With your trusty cargo bike or trailer in tow, you'll be cruising through the streets of Aarhus like a true furnishing aficionado in no time. You can learn how to use FreeTrailers and download the app by searching it in your search engine, then clicking on the FreeTrailer website.
3. Green Mobility or GoMore - This is a well-known app in Denmark where you can rent cars and vans for hours for a very affordable rate price.

Whatever your choice is to make your room more homey, take the chance to embrace the second-hand shopping! As you navigate the winding streets of Aarhus in search of the perfect furnishings, take a moment to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Denmark's thrifting culture. From neighbourhood flea markets to charity shops brimming with hidden treasures, there's no shortage of opportunities to score unique finds while embracing the spirit of sustainability and community.

In the charming neighbourhoods of Aarhus, you'll often stumble upon flea markets bustling with life and laughter, where locals gather to buy, sell, and trade everything from vintage clothing to quirky home decor. It's a vibrant celebration of Danish culture and creativity, where every purchase tells a story and every interaction fosters a sense of connection and camaraderie.

And let's not forget about the abundance of charity shops scattered throughout the city, each one a treasure trove of pre-loved goodies just waiting to be discovered. From designer duds to antique treasures, you never know what you'll find when you step inside one of these hidden gems. So go ahead, embrace the thrill of the hunt and uncover the hidden treasures that await you in the heart of Aarhus.

And there you have it, my friend - a comprehensive guide to furnishing fun in the enchanting city of Aarhus. Whether you're diving headfirst into the world of storskrald, scouring the second-hand scene for hidden gems, or indulging in a bit of retail therapy at your favourite furniture emporium, one thing is for certain: the adventure has only just begun.

So go forth and unleash your inner interior decorator upon the city streets. With a little creativity, a dash of Danish ingenuity, and a whole lot of hygge, your humble abode will soon transform into a cozy haven fit for a scholar.

Welcome to Aarhus - where every piece of furniture tells a story, and the journey is just as exciting as the destination. Happy furnishing!