The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal is built as an extension of the existing Nykredit premises in Copenhagen, Denmark. Designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, it is a transparent, crystalline structure that floats above the adjacent plaza. The multi-faceted glass façade is highly reflective and features a system that allows the building to adapt to changing light conditions. The building references much of the surrounding architecture. The passage under the building provides a clear view towards Nykredit’s head office building, called the Glass Cube, and the harbor.

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The interior of the building is constrained by the demands of functionality, flexibility and efficiency. 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.

The piazza features a large water pool which reflects the sun and the clouds moving across the sky. The Crystal and the Cloud are designed to interact with their surroundings, offering a subtle connection between the formal architecture of the Glyptotek Museum of Ancient and Modern Art, and the waterfront area which forms the setting for the new building.

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

The Crystal Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, danish architecture, copenhagen architecture, office building, nykredit, glass facade, crystal architecture

 

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