Denmark is home to gorgeous natural views of grandiose cliffs, fjords, and stunning stretches of ocean. But its urban scene is just as incredible as its natural one. Denmark has a long history of architecture. It has produced architects that have gone off to create some of the most infamous world structures like the Sydney Opera House. The country can trace its historical architectural roots to the times of the Vikings. It has been shaped Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles and developed into a style that is appreciated worldwide. When visiting Denmark, keep an eye out for these incredible architectural sites. Learn more about the 3 residential Danish sites for architecture fans.
The Wave
The Wave, also called Bølgen, is a residential building formed by five rolling wave-like structures that host 100 apartments. It was designed by architect Henning Larsen of the Danish design studio Henning Larsen Architects. Its construction took nearly 11 years, starting in 2006, and having to briefly pause due to the 2008 financial crisis. To put together these waves, an immense amount of calculated construction and rigging was necessary for it to come to fruition. It was finally completed in 2018. Unfortunately, Larsen passed away in 2013 and was never able to see the final building. Its design was inspired by the surrounding nature and rolling hills, which are uncommon in Denmark. Even before it was fully constructed, The Wave was already winning awards for its innovative design.
Related: The Danish Architect Who Redesigns Supremely Difficult Sites
The Iceberg
Isbjerget, known as the Iceberg, is another incredible residential building that makes it a striking sight on the Danish skyline. The inspiration for the building came from the floating icebergs in the North Atlantic. The structure mimics the shape and color of these giant floating ice blocks. The building was a collaboration between four architectural firms, SeARCH, Louis Paillard, CEBRA, and JDS Architects. It was the first building project that was finished in the area. The building sits on a former industrial port that is now being converted into residential and commercial neighborhoods.
Related: A Little Piece of Japan in Denmark
8 House
8 House is another residential project put together by BIG architecture firm. It gets its name from the “8” shape it has when looking at the building from above. 8 House was constructed with a very common Danish method of transportation in mind, biking. It has a bike path that runs from the ground floor all the way up to the 10th floor penthouses. To enhance the greenery of its surroundings, 8 House has terrace gardens that run alongside it. Additionally, it has internal courtyards created by the two loops from the “8” formation. These patches of nature are communal areas for the residents to enjoy. 8 House is an example of what is known as architectural alchemy, the idea that by mixing different types of traditional materials and styles, you can create an added value.
Related: Skyscraper Almost the Height of the Eifel Tower to be Built in a Tiny Danish Town
3 Residential Danish Sites For Architecture Fans – Bottom Line
If you’re an architecture fan, you have to put Denmark on your bucket list. The country has so many incredible architectural features and buildings that span much more than the 5 listed above. It is truly an incredible country to visit.
3 Residential Danish Sites For Architecture Fans, is written exclusively for Daily Scandinavian by Miles P. Murray. As a tech enthusiast and avid blogger, Miles explores the latest technology trends and gadgets. His mission is to help everyday consumers navigate the complicated, sometimes scary, but mostly exhilarating world of tech.
Feature image (on top) : Interior from the Wave © Henning Larsen Architect.