arcgency's multi-sensory krane retreat suspends over the nordhavn harbor in denmark

in an effort to design and build sustainable architecture by using new building methods, danish architecture studio arcgency‘s latest project, the krane, is an aesthetic oasis amidst an industrial landscape on the edge of nordhavn, one of the last harbors under renovation in denmark’s capital. this multi-tiered structure fosters a soothing sense of serenity and is comprised of a reception area on the ground floor, a meeting room called the ‘glass box’ on the first floor, a spa and terrace on the second floor, and a retreat on top called the ‘krane room’ with a lounge and terrace. 

the project reflects denmark’s less-is-more stance on luxury
all images © rasmus hjortshøj – COAST studio

arcgency‘s krane project features a 360-degree inside/outside approach — the architects optimized the space in order to capture natural daylight and set the stage for the water-side views. the concept builds on its dark past as a coal-loading crane by using black as the color scheme throughout. in addition to its allusions to coal, black plays a pivotal role in muting and minimizing visual distractions so visitors feel almost enveloped in the interior. at the same time, black dramatizes the changing light and breath-taking views outside. ‘it’s all part of the vision, where the focus has been the integration of sensations – sight, sound and stemning (the danish word for atmosphere),’ explains chief architect mads møller.

the project was an old engine room that is now a high-end retreat

the spa below takes a lighter approach, clad in stone from floor to ceiling. it boasts an immense, glass-glazed wall as a window on one side, with a singular view of the harbor and the ocean. as møller sees it, ‘it kick starts your imagination and it’s the furthest thing from cold or corporate. here you have a panoramic view at the edge of the water.’ although nordhavn may still have an industrial atmosphere, møller encourages people of all disciplines to experience a day at the krane.

an areal view of the krane retreat amidst the nordhavn harbor

the exclusive spa is the ideal getaway from the bustling city life

nordhavn is one of the last harbors under renovation in denmark’s capital

the chief architect explains that ‘you’re removed from the city without feeling too remote’

this multi-tiered structure fosters a soothing sense of serenity

the krane is predominantly made of leather, wood, stone and steel

the black interior combined with the white bathroom creates a stark, serene contrast 

the furniture is constructed so that the primary pieces disappear with the beds, seating and cupboards integrated into wall panels and the functional pieces hidden away

every room offers a breathtaking view of the danish harbor

the glass-glazed wall is used as a window on one side, with a singular view of the harbor and the ocean

the meeting room offers a panoramic view of the sea

chief architect mads møller made the glass box meeting room with the intention of attracting a different audience

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynn chaya | designboom

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