TEGLHOLMEN, COPENHAGEN

The general area is characterized by new residential developments built as bar buildings or traditional blocks.
The building site lies between Teglholmsgade and the longitudinal, common green. The site has a longitudinal character in the east-west direction which suggest a different building type. It is also readily apparent that orienting the buildings north-west will provide optimal views and lighting conditions.

VLA’s primary idea was to create a coherent development which contains a variation of courtyards and other spatial experiences. The longitudinal building volume reflects the geometry of the site and the two large south-facing courtyards integrate the common green directly into the building.

The longitudinal form also provides a natural zone division between parking, building, and garden areas.

The building has two primary facades. The heavy, masonry façade facing north creates a spine towards Teglholmsgade and Teglholms Allé. The window sizes are reduced compared to those in the south facing façade to emphasize the buildings weight towards the street.

The south facing façade of the building will be a glass facade with large window openings and balconies. The façade will have a very open character in contrast to the north façade, and it is intended that this part of the building will be experienced as active – all will be able to observe activity both on and from the balconies and terraces.

The landscape supports the building’s geometry by creating a longitudinal sequence of paths which ties the courtyards on the north and south side of the building together. The path sequence is designed as a continuous activity course containing playgrounds, etc.