Originally built in 1947 for storing coffee and goods along Nordhavn’s waterfront, Pakhus 47 has been thoughtfully transformed into a modern workplace that balances industrial heritage with contemporary needs. Rather than opting for demolition, the project retains and adapts the existing structure—preserving materials such as concrete, brick, steel, and timber—providing a textured backdrop for new interventions that support current functional and environmental standards.
The transformation reflects how a once single-purpose warehouse can evolve into a mixed-use environment, where flexible workspaces sit alongside public functions such as a restaurant and conference centre - additions that help reconnect the building with its urban context, creating a setting that supports both community and productivity.
The raw character of the original concrete and steel structure is complemented by contemporary transparent glass volumes and adaptable interiors, supporting collaborative work and responding to changing needs. Considerations such as natural light, acoustics, and air quality have been carefully integrated to promote well-being in the workplace.
Pakhus 47 offers an example of how existing buildings can be repurposed to meet future demands while respecting their history. By combining preservation with practical updates, the project demonstrates that architectural transformation can be a meaningful process—one that builds on the past to create spaces that are both relevant and resilient.
Winner of Building of the Year 2024 (Årets Byggeri 2024)
Historic Warehouse Turned Modern Office
Pakhus 47 in Copenhagen’s Northern Harbour has been carefully transformed from historic warehouse into modern office spaces, where industrial details meet the functional needs of the future. Originally constructed for the storage of coffee and goods from the East, Pakhus 47 plays a central role in the development of Sundmolen, demonstrating how resource-conscious renovation can merge sustainability with the preservation of industrial heritage to create a modern office framework.
The original building structure – including its robust concrete construction and steel detailing – has been carefully preserved and integrated with modern features that introduce light, flexibility, and transparency.
Inside, raw concrete, exposed brick walls, and natural materials create an inspiring environment. A central spiral staircase links the floors, encouraging social interaction. Large, round windows facing the waterfront open the building to its surroundings and reinforce its connection to the harbour.
The open ground floor is designed as an inviting public meeting place. It accommodates a restaurant as well as several meeting and communal spaces, bringing life to the area—even beyond regular office hours.
The open-plan layout provides a fluid transition between Klubiensvej and the waterfront, reinforcing the building’s role as a social and cultural hub.
The transformation of the historic 1947 warehouse into a modern workspace highlights the value of building upon existing structures rather than constructing new ones—a resource-saving approach that also reduces environmental impact.
The renovation has been carried out with respect for the building’s original character, preserving raw concrete, steel frameworks, and exposed installations as reminders of its industrial past.
At the same time, modern glass partitions, flexible office solutions, and an inviting ground floor with public amenities ensure that Pakhus 47 caters to the needs of the workplace of the future, while forging a vibrant connection to the urban spaces of Nordhavn.
The project is rooted in the needs and experiences of its users, aiming to create a workspace that is both functional and inspiring. Through the sensitive transformation of a historic warehouse, care has been taken to preserve the building’s authentic industrial character, while integrating modern facilities that meet contemporary standards.
The interior design prioritises flexibility and well-being, with natural light, acoustics, and air quality playing a central role in fostering a healthy, pleasant working environment. The choice of materials enhances a tactile, authentic atmosphere, reinforcing users’ connection to the building’s history and identity.
Social areas are conceived as vibrant meeting points that promote community and collaboration. These spaces support both focused work and open dialogue, enabling users to realise their full potential in a setting that is as practical as it is inspiring.
Existing masonry, load-bearing structures, and surfaces have been preserved and restored to minimise the need for new materials. This approach reduces resource consumption and lowers the project’s overall climate impact. For instance, original timber structures have been reinforced and reused as visible design elements, contributing to both aesthetics and sustainability.
When selecting new materials, emphasis has been placed on durability, low environmental impact, and an honest aesthetic. Reclaimed materials—such as reused bricks and steel components—have been prioritised wherever possible, further reducing the demand for new resources.
The construction site has been managed with a focus on minimising waste and optimising resource use. This has been achieved through careful logistics planning, efficient material handling, and on-site recycling of waste.
These measures have led to a significant reduction in material consumption and waste volumes. The reuse of existing materials, for example, has lowered the need for new production and transport, thereby helping to reduce CO₂ emissions. In summary, the project demonstrates how preservation and reuse can be successfully integrated into contemporary construction, significantly reducing resource use.
