Colour, height, and recycling – three key drivers in Sweco Architects' vibrant new Water Sports Centre in Halsskov, Denmark. The project is a demonstration in accessibility; bringing people to the water's edge, utilising an old ferry port, and creating a brand new site for fun to be had. The architects have emphasised the raw character of the new structure's location, both in the selection of new materials and the recycling of existing ones. Concrete piers have been exposed and fragments of bulwarks and harbour fittings have been preserved. The result? A happy material contrast that draws the eye to this towering container of pure water sporting joy.
Cover image: Water Sports Centre, Halsskov, Denmark; Sweco Architects – image by Mads Fredrik
Water Sports Centre, Halsskov, Denmark; Sweco Architects – image by Mads Fredrik
The tower is made of three stacked containers that are positioned at shifted angles, generating an interesting interplay of activity, shadows and volumes. The structure's purpose is to curate jumps into the water it overlooks. Users can choose between heights of 4, 8 and 11 metres from which to take their leap off the canary yellow beacon – visible from the Great Belt Bridge.
Water Sports Centre, Halsskov, Denmark; Sweco Architects – image by Mie Marie Reindahl Clausen
Water Sports Centre, Halsskov, Denmark; Sweco Architects – image by Mads Fredrik
As a continuous theme, the project recycles as many materials as possible from the site's former port, either directly or through upcycling. The area's boundaries and benches have been constructed using old bulwarks from the ferry port, whilst the centre's new wooden decks are made of of sawn bulwark. The facility buildings, also built out of freight container shells, are covered with heat treated wood from sustainable forestry that ensures minimal maintenance. And to top it sustainably off, the whole centre uses LED lighting to minimise energy consumption. This project once again positions Denmark as a forerunner of cities which are able to engage with water as public space. Joyful to say the least.
Architects: Sweco Architects
Website: www.sweco.dk/architecture
Lead Architects: Mette Lund Traberg and Troels Holm
Location: Halskov, Korsør, Denmark
Completed: 2017