Optimizing well-being by bringing daylight into the largest office building in Denmark
The new headquarters of Danske Bank consists of two atrium buildings and accommodates more than 6000 people daily. Denmark's largest financial institution has completed a major construction: establishing its Copenhagen headquarters. The 73,000-square-metre office building was built on the former post office site in central Copenhagen.
This ambitious project aimed to not only modernize the workspace, but also create a more sustainable and inspiring/stimulating environment for its employees. The resulting structure is a landmark achievement in modern Danish architecture, prioritizing transparency and light.
Design principles focusing on sustainability, innovation and cooperation
The headquarters features a new façade with a striking combination of red brick and expansive glass panels. The red brick structure blends into the surroundings, following the city’s architectural tradition. The interplay of materials creates a sense of openness and allows for an abundance of natural light to flood the interior spaces. Transparent walls and flexible work areas encourage communication and collaboration, while designated quiet zones provide focus areas for concentrated work. The impressive atrium – located within the larger building – rises 141 ft. through ten stories and serves as the central hub.
Sustainable design principles are woven throughout the building. Energy-efficient features like geothermal heating and cooling systems minimise the environmental impact. The building is certified according to LEED Gold v4 for “BD+C: New Construction and Major Renovation”.
Plenty of natural light with VELUX Modular Skylights
A key element of the architecture is the extensive use of natural light. This doesn’t only enhance the building's aesthetics; it also enhances the well-being and health of the office workers. Studies have shown that natural light can improve cognitive function, alertness, and mood in workspaces, all essential qualities for successful trading (source: Healthy Buildings Barometer 2024).
A significant part of the design is the 862 VELUX Modular Skyligths. The contractor collaborated closely with VELUX Commercial to develop bespoke solutions that were seamlessly integrated with the roof's complex geometrical layout. Our early involvement in the project allowed us to propose a significant glass roof solution, which optimized the use of natural light, instead of the single dome rooflights, that were planned originally. As a result, the use of high-performance glazing materials ensures optimal light transmission while maintaining thermal comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
The installation process involved working at great heights, ensuring a watertight roof seal, demanded a high level of expertise from the construction team. Despite the challenges, the project's successful completion showcases the innovative application of skylights in modern architectural design.
By embracing natural light and fostering collaboration, the project creates a sustainable and inspiring workspace for the bank's employees, setting a new standard for modern office buildings.
Certifications
Building certificate - LEED Gold