The Crystal, Copenhagen, Denmark
The Crystal is an extension to the existing Schmidt Hammer Lassen-designed Nykredit premises that sits opposite the site. It reads as a transparent, geometrical, glazed form which, resting only on a single point, floats as a visually light, crystalline structure above the plaza. The building’s multi-faceted glass façade reflects daylight and surroundings. The double-glazing features an integrated sunscreen that allows the building to adapt to changing light conditions. The outer glazing system includes a subtle silk print design that mitigates solar ingress and enlivens the ambience of the harbour area.
The interior layout has been designed for optimum functionality, flexibility and efficiency.
The plaza features a large water pool which reflects the sun and the clouds moving across the sky. During the day, the plaza is divided into distinct areas by ‘walls’ of water jets whose formation continuously changes throughout the day. At night the pool is illuminated by a soft turquoise-green light, which together with the patterns of warm light from the lighting masts brings a unique ambience to the new plaza.