One building - one workplace

DIN Forsyning is the result of a merger between the public utility companies Varde Forsyning A/S and Esbjerg Forsyning A/S, which now have a shared head office on the outskirts of Esbjerg. In terms of its shape and size, the new domicile has been designed to blend in well with its scenic location. Two structures appear to have risen up from the ground and fused to form a single dynamic unit.

At first sight, the building appears very homogeneous and sculptural, yet it is in fact quite complex with a combination of different heights and sloping facades. The two main blocks are fused in the middle, creating a welcoming entrance for employees and visitors. The heart of the building can be found where the wings and levels meet, and comprises a beautifully designed atrium with a main staircase connecting the two floors.

The building is arranged with flexible office space for the administration and daily management of the water utility. However, this is mirrored by a wing for workshops, laboratories and a double-height storage facility. A long, transverse concrete wall creates an expansive ‘surface’ between the offices and the workshop facilities, and also provides a backdrop for the canteen, which has been named vandhullet – or ‘the watering hole’.

Conscious choice of colours

The desire was to create a sense of equality between the different functions, where the employees meet and experience a pleasant work environment, including good acoustics. Against this background, Troldtekt was chosen as a unifying material which has been successfully used in the meeting rooms, laboratories and storage facility.

The interior colours are very graphic with black or white surfaces broken at selected locations. In the office areas, a small number of wall sections are painted a warm blue colour, while other walls feature huge graphics representing employees in various working situations. Bright orange-coloured walls and Troldtekt ceilings dominate the corridors between the atrium and the storage/workshop facilities. A striking solution, which also emphasises the sense of openness between the different departments.