Snøhetta recently completed an attractive Timber Marine Center in Esbjerg, Denmark. Inspired by the structure of a wooden ship, the building is designed to withstand the harsh local conditions, including high winds and possible flooding.
Also known as the Maritime Center, Snohetta says the lantern got its name because it is pleasantly lit at night. It was built in collaboration with WERK Arkitekter using the equivalent of approximately 65 km (approximately 40 miles) of thermos. (that is, steamed) pine wood. In a nice touch, the building’s patterned façade casts shadows meant to resemble a kayak. Its design was inspired by wooden boats, but keeps visitors comfortable in adverse conditions. Needs also influenced the project.
“The robustness of the center is evident not only in the building’s ability to facilitate activity, but also in the way it creates shelter from high winds,” Snohetta explains. “The building is planned for high water if it exceeds the new surrounding dam. Therefore, the structure up to the first floor is made of concrete and is flushed down. Although designed to withstand the conditions, the building is designed with areas where visitors can find shelter.
“One such area, and central to the project, is a publicly accessible raised terrace that brings together all the different activities of the building. Accessible by the main staircase, creating an amphitheater, these two circular staircases allow visitors to enjoy the views and sea activities on a small windproof terrace on the ground floor.”
Wichmann + BendtsenPhotography
The building is approximately 3,800 square meters (nearly 41,000 square feet) and includes a terrace area and several boat storage areas. At its center is a large hall that houses practical facilities with space for equipment, tools and gear while also providing access to the water, space to clean the boat and areas to discuss activities. Elsewhere, the building has other facilities and social areas.
In addition to using wood, the lantern’s sustainable design includes a rooftop-based solar panel that reduces grid-based power usage. Snohetta also focused natural light with carefully placed glazing, inserting large holes in the terraces to allow sunlight to penetrate below.
The project won an architectural competition in 2019 and will be completed in December 2022.
Source: Snohetta
