The Crystal by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Copenhagen, Denmark

Picture of the Chrystal office building as seen from the street

The Crystal by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Copenhagen, Denmark
© Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects

What is the first picture that comes to your mind when someone says European architecture? Most of the people remember Rome, Athens, Paris and Barcelona. While southern Europe has rich historical architecture, northern Europe went fast into the 21st century.

The Crystal is brand new piece of modern architecture built in Copenhagen, Denmark. It's an office building, built for Nykredit company. The Crystal is designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, having sustainability as one of the goals. Energy consumption is only 70 kWh per square meter, while the roof is covered with photovoltaic panels generating 80,000 kWh/year.

"In terms of both form and scale, the building is intermediate between the city and the harbour, and harmonises with neighbouring buildings. On the southern side it rises with reference to the Elefanthuset’s gable apex and creates space for the main entrance.

From the corner of Puggardsgade and Hambrosgade there is passage under the building and a clear view out towards Nykredit’s head office building, called the Glass Cube, and the harbour. The interior layout of the building has been designed for optimum functionality, flexibility and ef¬ficiency. The typical floor plan is disposed in a Z-shape around two atria, which ensures that all workstations are well lit and enjoy a view. The disposition of the plan allows the accommodation of open plan, separate offices or meeting rooms.

The building is primarily supported by a rhombic construction system placed immediately inside the façade. The system functions both as an architectural element while also allowing the building to dispense with pillars."
-Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects