Pihlmann Architects collaborated with archival research institutes to carry out a renovation project in the meat processing area of kødbyen to transform the "Copenhagen Art Center" by reusing elements in the space. Located in a bright and functional building named "White" on the first floor, the center was first a butcher shop, then a bank branch, and finally became the modern art institution of today.
Over time, a series of additional elements—a weathered porch, three glass cages and a huge bank vault—undermined the rhythmic quality of the space. However, the architect sees these components as an opportunity to explore the recycling of the building. Instead of introducing new materials, they reused existing elements and stripped off the added layers, restoring the building to its original features and highlighting the heritage value of kødbyen.
All images are copyrighted by Hampus Berndtson
In addition to the reuse of materials, the project also pays tribute to timeliness. The current "Copenhagen Art Center" will soon move to a new location, prompting the team to transform this temporary view into a universal creed rooted in sustainable development: "Every element must be reused. Nothing is discarded. , But rejuvenated through changes in function and appearance. This dogma is rooted in the indisputable fact that today’s construction industry emits excessive amounts of greenhouse gases. If we achieve our climate goals — we are fundamentally dependent on it — we need to completely Change the way we think and create architecture."
The development and execution phases are carried out at the same time. This is a basic process in any case study. The team believes: "This is an archeological process. It analyzes the architecture layer by layer and dynamically creates a catalog of possibilities." You can view it here The work of architect pihlmann, view the archive research here.
The architect first demolished and redefined the ceiling tiles, leaving the slender aluminum profile as a coarse mesh filter. Then, they regrouped the white tiles into flexible, hanging folding walls, suspended as stage elements, emphasizing different light tones and intensities-referring to the history of kødbyen and the surrounding exterior walls.
In addition, the glass cage at the back was also removed, exposing the most prominent part of the facade at the entrance of kødbyen. This in turn highlights the activities carried out at the "Copenhagen Art Center". The team used the removed glass panels as new furniture and transparent room dividers to gently protect the permanent workplace from interference. Less conspicuous materials were also redeemed; aluminum frames were used as curtain hangers, and window sills were used as horizontal wedges for room dividers.
Name: Copenhagen Art Center
Type: Flexible event space, studio and office
Architect: pihlmann architects, archive research
Designboom received this project from our DIY submission function, and we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. See more projects submitted by readers here.
Editor: lea zeitoun | design boom
Is there anything to add? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. All comments are reviewed for review before being posted.
A diversified digital database serves as a valuable guide for obtaining product insights and information directly from manufacturers, and as a rich reference point for development projects or programs.