Transformation

What are the complexities of transforming?

Transforming can be complex and it is extremely important to aware of the potential risks involved. When we started the transformation process of the SHELL building, it became clear that the building was constructed at a time when there was a shortage of good building materials. This meant that we couldn't be sure what was hiding behind the facades and walls. Sometimes it can be necessary to peel off a lot of layers before you can assess whether a building can withstand a transformation, and be aware of the fact that there can be risks associated with work that is unpredictable from the start.

When you transform, it's a bit like a tango dance. It's unpredictable, but it's exciting. It's not a linear process like new builds - it's an adventure, working with possibilities and potentials rather than just one solution. It takes love, agility and risk-taking, but the nugget of gold that you can create by working with the existing is extremely valuable. It's worth everything and then some.

Transforming buildings with a high quality outcome is all about recognizing opportunities - even where they are hard to see. For example, many people found it difficult to see the potential in KB32, especially from the outside, where it was very rough and run down. But there was no doubt when we stepped inside. A building of this nature will not be built again. This was a huge blank canvas to work with - a place full of possibilities.

What are the most important things to keep in mind when transforming buildings?

It can't be emphasized enough how important it is to thoroughly understand the details, history and layers of a building before you start transforming it.

As an example, I'd like to mention our work on transforming Illum in Copenhagen. This is a building that has undergone change and been tinkered with by different architects over a very long period of time, from 1860 all the way up to 1970. Thus, you can't just say that the building is put together in one way. There are many approaches, materials from different eras and different styles to consider in the process.

It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with how a building was conceived and learn what mistakes have been made over the years, but also what good ideas need to be revived. As architects, we must always do better than those who started, and we do this by learning from the past. This way, we can make smart decisions based on what's already there.

When I work with transformation, I don't aim to return everything to the way it used to be. But it is important when transforming to respect the professional choices that have been made in the past - to try to understand what they have achieved, what function have previous design or material choices had, and what no longer works?

What are the implications for urban development when transforming?

Working with the existing building stock creates a good dynamic in a city. The Aarhusgade neighbourhood in Nordhavn is a good example. There is an exciting variety of buildings. A three-bedroom apartment is not the same all the way through. They are different in their expression and are integrated with the surrounding city, backyards and city life. At the same time, old buildings allow for flexibility when transforming them. For example, you can move a downspout. You can't do that in a new apartment block.

I think that when you look out into the world, there are several scary examples of what happens if a city ONLY consists of new buildings - just look at the Parisian suburbs. Both the look and the mix of residents become too similar. Diversity is needed to create the good city.

KB32 is part of the revitalisation of the old DSB areas and properties that extend from the main station to Enghave station covering Postbyen and Jernbanebyen. As one of only a few buildings that survived the 1990’s construction boom of Kalvebod Brygge, it tells the story of how the railway was a driving force for the development of Copenhagen.

In 2018, Swedish Genesta bought the building from DSB Real Estate and, in collaboration with Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects, started the transformation from old freight terminal to a unique office building. Although the local municipal plan allowed to build more, everyone agreed from the beginning to revive the dilapidated building with the robust raw house as a foundation. It is far more climate-friendly than demolition and created a long-lasting and optimal physical environment for a modern workplace for up to 1,000 employees.

A tribute to the original expression

The 180 meter long building was originally designed by architect Ole Hagen in 1967, but was continuously changed over time and ended with a random and incoherent expression that was far from the original. From the inside out, the design has therefore used the original expression and continued and enhanced the qualities with which the house was born. The building was opened up and all unnecessary layers removed into the raw house. Subsequently, only elements have been added that provide spatial and material value and that reinforce the original qualities. This applies, among other things, to the simple, understated façade, where the window sections in a clear rhythm gradually become smaller upwards from the ground floor. It makes the expansive façade a composition of different parts with a beat that refers to the original expression of the building from the 1960s. The large windows open up the building and throw daylight all the way into the 24 meter deep building.

Impressive spaces and custom-made solutions

Inside, suspended ceilings have been removed and the building stands with an impressive ceiling height of just under 4.5 meters. Together with the 3.8 meter high window sections, the rooms are opened up and natural daylight is thrown all the way into the deep building, where the original bright, raw concrete beams have been preserved and leave an industrial imprint. In the project, there has been a special focus on acoustics, where large parts of the building's surfaces are acoustically damped with handmade, micro-perforated hot-rolled steel panels with sound-absorbing material behind. They inscribe themselves in the character of the building and together with the raw concrete elements and solid oak, they create a warm, honest and Nordic atmosphere and experience.

Natural transitions between inside and outside

At the same time, the renovation has focused on establishing easier access between inside and outside. The new roof terrace runs the entire length of the building and can be used for accommodation and training. In addition, openings have been created so that it is possible to access the National Archives' outdoor garden from the first floor as well as outdoor pockets in the form of newly established balconies on the south gable. On each floor, the arrival area is arranged as a small café area with kitchenette, where the house's users can naturally socialize. The elevator goes directly from the canteen to the large roof terrace, which extends the entire length of the building and is clad with thermowood and has integrated seating and planters. Here, users can enjoy a break or meet under green pergolas with a view of inner Copenhagen and the Inner Harbor.

The public now has an easier access to outdoor spaces as a result of the renovation. Here, a new public staircase along the northern gable gives access to the National Archives' large green garden on the first floor and activates a previously more unknown green area.

The entire project has been carried out with full operation at the National Archives on the ground floor and with Banedanmark's server park on the 1st and 2nd floors.