Borkenhagen’s work straddles the divide between art and design. His sculptures are frequently characterised by their interactive qualities, while his furniture and interior designs often possess a sculptural character. During the final year of his studies at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg (1980–1986) he worked for film producers Gebhardt in their set design and accessories department. In 1988, he established a studio for furniture and object design in Paris after a stint in Rome, where he worked as a furniture designer, and production and set designer.