REFSHALEØEN - A Collective Future

Abstract

This master thesis is concerned with the site of Refshaleøen in Copenhagen and how a proposal of buildings would enhance the identity of the place, attract more people while maintaining the qualities of the old industrial area. A contradiction in itself and thus not an easy task. As method, the first steps were to document the site, attain background material and history of the site to better understand the existing conditions.
In able to put Refshaleøen in a context sites along the Havneringen were also explored since Refshaleøen is also in direct contact with the water and in one way or the other is in competition with these places for future investment, visitors, and settlers.
A continued investigation of the conditions on Refshaleøen were based on the existing constructions/buildings, traffic situation, proportions, and scale of the built environment. Large green spaces is also quite unique to the chosen site as there are vast unbuilt areas.
A concept relating to the site on an urbanistic level was developed while also focusing on certain central areas of the huge site. As an approach a grid was chosen to serve as a rule for the buildings and additions to the existing structures. This also helped in planning connections between the loosely placed existing buildings. The diverse group of businesses and associations that have claimed the facilities do this for specific reasons such as the functionality of the spaces and the relatively low rent.
By looking at the varied use of materials and structures the proposition can adapt and be able to create flexible spaces for future use. Some international references show what kind of direction the proposition should take in terms of function and variation.
The concept is based on a simple but effective prefabricated concrete frame that can be added upon in the future and used for various functions. Since it is impossible to predict what uses will be in demand in the future the structure serves to the changing needs through its generality. An example of housing and green spaces are added to the structure to display possible uses.
The aim is thus to create variation and possibilities for living and working within this ”megaform”. If this would prove to be successful a possible development on other sites would be possible. The main prerequisite is to build the structure slowly over time in order not to deter the current residents of Refshaleøen from its unique location, openness, and free do-it-yourself attitude.
The proposal is in the end a contribution to the debate about the development on Refshaleøen and whether a full-scale expansion should take place there and if so to what degree. It is evident in this proposal that a certain degree of development of new buildings and additions could bring added values and qualities to the space such as increased activity and openness to the public from the point of the businesses. The quality of Refshaleøen is in a way its isolated nature in Copenhagen, something that will be impossible to fully protect in the future because of its advantageous position.
But if the proposal can lead to new ideas of how an alternative future can unfold on Refshaleøen then it has succeeded. This could possibly serve as a reference in a discussion about alterations to the zoning plan where the city of Copenhagen can bring forth a stricter framework for buildings while maintaining the businesses and associations the uniquely interesting do-it-yourself spirit which is prevailing on Refshaleøen and could flourish.

• author: Lenard, Adam
• supervisor: Thomas Hellquist
• organization: Department of Architecture and Built Environment
• course: AAHM01 20171
• year: 2017
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Arts and Architecture
• keywords: Refshaleøen, Copenhagen, Architecture, Transformation
• language: Swedish
• id: 8905495
• date added to LUP: 2017-12-11 14:14:14
• date last changed: 2017-12-11 14:14:14