Kommandantens Gaard, Copenhagen

More pictures from the project

Address: New Tøjhuskvarteret, Copenhagen S
Client: KPI A/S and KFU Arkitekter
Landscape: Arkitema
Size: 25,000 m²
Construction: 2006


Kommandantens Gaard simultaneously represents the past and the future. With its characteristic block structure and conscious choice of brick as a material, the development points back to the many blocks of the historic Islands Brygge quarter. The specially-fired bricks thus harmonise with the neighbourhood's classic Copenhagen houses, while the use of prefabricated building components indicates an architecture that makes conscious use of the potential of prefabrication. The modern expression is emphasised by the facades' contemporary style, which dynamically combine steel, glass, wooden slats and the characteristic white balconies.

The block forms a horseshoe structure which opens up towards the district's unifying canal streets. In its U-shaped embrace, the development holds a sunlit garden space with social and recreational zones such as lawns, barbecue areas and playgrounds. Here the residents can meet over grilled sausages, the children can try out their new skateboards and the whole family can hold a picnic on the steps beside the canal. The garden ends in broad sitting steps which lead down towards the area's linking canal street.

Kommandantens Gaard consists of 186 owner-occupied dwellings with highly flexible interiors, all with two roomy balconies that make it possible to follow the sun. At the same time, the many white balconies extending in an irregular rhythm from the building's surface help to give Kommandantens Gaard its expressive and contemporary identity.