In addition to becoming Denmark’s tallest timber building to date, the new six-storey property in Østerbro will be the focal point for a new urban life in the area. An entirely new construction system will create 20 student residences which, together with an open, park-like garden and the potential for a café on the ground floor, will attract new activity to the neighbourhood.

A new timber building is under way at Østerbrogade 190 and, when completed in 2019, will, with its six storeys, be Denmark’s tallest timber-constructed building to date.

"More than just a tall timber building, this project is intended to create a new square and more life in an existing local area. We have designed a well-proportioned building with a simple architectural language so that it fits the surroundings and respects Sions Church as a neighbour," says Torsten Stephensen, partner at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects.

The building will comprise 20 student flats and a ground floor offering the possibility of a café or similar public function. Extending from the building will be an open, park-like garden, providing a recreational addition to a square that has long been underused.

New system for the first time in Denmark

The construction system used in the project has been developed by Cree Denmark and is based, among other things, on cross-laminated timber (CLT), which makes it possible to build cost-effectively and with a high degree of prefabrication. This project is one of the first in Denmark and will set new parameters for what is possible with timber.

"With the new system, we can make the process more efficient in terms of time, cost, and resources, while still being able to tailor solutions, even though the elements are prefabricated," says Michael Schytt Poulsen, Associate Partner at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects.

Compact quality apartments with optimal daylight

The new flats will range from one to two rooms, measuring between 17 and 24 m². They will be compact, well laid out, and designed to maximise daylight, with dual aspect views and sightlines to street life. All residences are located from the first floor upwards, minimising outside intrusion, and, despite their modest size, they will allow for practical furnishing. The ground floor will accommodate a café or another outward-facing function.

"Even students on a budget should be able to live well and centrally. With this project, it is our ambition to strengthen the city by creating good conditions for both young people and the local community," says Michael Schytt Poulsen.

Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects is collaborating with Cree Denmark and MOE on the project.