arcgency’s shipping container offices in copenhagen are made to be moved photography by rasmus hjortshøj all images courtesy of arcgency

copenhagen’s northern harbor is transitioning from a purely industrial location to part of the larger city. during this transformation, former factories, loading piers and port terminals have become vacant while the rate of development catches up. designed by local practice arcgency, a project entitled ‘made to move’ introduces a temporary building typology to efficiently inhabit these vacant lots.

the project introduces a temporary building typology to efficiently inhabit vacant lots

stacked three storeys high, the used shipping containers are conceived as an experimental prefabricated scheme that challenges universal waste issues and traditional building techniques. the span between the units is utilized as flexible space for primary workspace functions, while interiors can be used for secondary functions such as meeting rooms, workshops and storage.

the used shipping containers are stacked three storeys high

the container stack is wrapped with high performing insulated sandwich panels, which help protect against the harsh scandinavian climate. the cladding is bolted directly onto the container frame – as are the windows, roof elements and internal floor slabs. visible installations are used for water, electricity and heating, making it easy to set up and take down.

office space within the design

from the 40 foot long spaces inside the containers to the triple height voids between them, the various spatial experiences and scales invite a range of uses. different levels and large interior windows make it possible to create the feeling of working in a collaborative atmosphere, with teams inhabiting different parts of the building. furthermore, large full height openings allow natural light deep inside the office throughout the day, minimizing the need for artificial light.

the units over look the adjacent waterfront

floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that internal spaces are filled with daylight

large interior windows create the feeling of working in a collaborative atmosphere

the span between the units is utilized as flexible space for primary workspace functions

the container stack is wrapped with high performing insulated sandwich panels

the cladding helps protect against the harsh scandinavian climate

type: container office building location: nordhavnen, copenhagen, denmark completed: 2015 client: unionkul a/s size: 660 sqm architect: arcgency engineer: structural, slothmøller. energy, steensen & varming photography: coast_ rasmus hjortshøj

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