BIG architects studio visit

BIG architects studio, copenhagen, denmark
image © designboom


designboom recently visited the head studio of BIG architects in copenhagen, denmark to witness the design process of the
internationally renowned firm led by bjarke ingels. the office is currently comprised of 80 staff while the new york location
introduces an additional 20 people to the international practice. structured as a flat hierarchy, individuals are placed into teams
assigned to different projects. team members are selected based on a combination of cultural origins and the competition's location
and remain with the project until its conclusion. model making is regularly used to explore building ideas from initial
conceptual stages throughout the design process, ensuring the development is transparent and understood across the board.
upon completion, models are displayed throughout the office or stored in the in-house archive room.



studio entrance
image © designboom


computer stations are placed in rows in an open area encouraging continuous communication during project development.
glass enclosed breakout spaces are used for team brainstorm sessions and a 'skype window' to the new york office provides
opportunities for international discussions. collaborative study trips with other firms and visiting lecturers for the 'BIG picture'
monthly internal event provides educational opportunities. another initiative, 'BIG lecture' encourages resident architects to teach
personal strengths to fellow employees for contribution to future projects.



reception
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completed models are featured throughout the office
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computer stations
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prototype for puma mopion bike
see our previous coverage of this project here.
image © designboom



model of west 57th residential building
see our previous coverage of this project here.
image © designboom



street view of west 57th residential building in new york city
image courtesy of bjarke ingels group



model of lego tower for the 'yes is more exhibition'
see our earlier coverage of the exhibition here.
image © designboom



model is constructed with 200,000 legos
images © designboom



model of new national library in astana, kazakhstan
see our earlier coverage of this project here.
image © designboom



model detail
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scale figures
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model making area with shelves for supply storage
image © designboom



model of new town hall of tallin, estonia
see designboom's original coverage of this project here.
image © designboom



breakout space
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archive room
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model storage in archive
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break out space
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team meeting
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conference room
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model
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lunch of the day
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kitchen
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studio building and plaza
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plaza
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