Playing with geometry

The Lergravparken after-school club now has a new centre called Tidsmaskinen (Danish for Time Machine). The centre consists of three buildings, the heart of which is an old stately home that has been renovated for the purpose. From the old building, a new glass passageway connects to a heptagonal tower, designed for theatre, movement and music.

Foto: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen, architect

The three parts are harmoniously integrated thanks to the exceptional contextualisation of the new tower. The brick walls give the tower its distinctive look, while its form makes reference to the many bay and dormer windows in the neighbourhood.

The classic stately home has been furnished with historic furniture to create features like an old living room, library and grocery store. Hence the name. On the lower floors of the tower, the perfect setting has been created for theatre, while the upper floors are dedicated to movement and music. The heptagonal shape of the tower supports and invites movement, but it can also be used for quieter activities.

Tranquility

Tidsmaskinen’s tower is unlike anything you have seen before. Not that BBP Arkitekter’s design is a mishmash of elements. By using brick inside and out, the tower retains a familiar identity. The heptagonal form, round windows and pitched roofs are well-known geometric shapes, which contribute clarity, while the bricks add intimacy and texturality.

Troldtekt acoustic panels have been installed on all ceilings, enhancing the materiality and the acoustics. Wooden strips on the sloping ceilings underscore the geometry. The floors reflect the shape of the interesting ceilings, which add a decorative element to the rooms.