By the early 2010s, Industriens Hus—headquarters of the Confederation of Danish Industry—no longer met modern standards for sustainability, space, or urban integration. Originally built in the 1970s, the building had become too small and visually outdated, with a heavy concrete façade that stood in stark contrast to the open atmosphere of Copenhagen’s City Hall Square. There was a clear need to modernise the building while preserving elements of the original structure, increasing capacity, and improving environmental performance—all without compromising the needs of employees working inside or the aesthetics of the cityscape outside.

Between 2011 and 2013, Industriens Hus underwent a complete transformation. The project retained the core concrete structure of the original building, significantly reducing the environmental footprint of the renovation. In parallel, 20,000 m² of new construction was added, bringing the building’s total area to 50,000 m².

A key architectural feature of the new building is its fully glazed façade. Designed with a light steel suspension, the glass surface replaces the former closed expression with a bright, transparent profile that integrates more seamlessly with its urban surroundings. To balance aesthetics with functionality, a double façade system was implemented. The inner layer consists of insulating glass that helps retain heat, while the outer glass layer shields against wind, rain, and urban noise from one of Denmark’s busiest intersections.

The façade design contributes significantly to energy performance. During colder months, the protected inner layer is less exposed to wind and temperature fluctuations. In summer, the space between the two glass layers is ventilated by opening flaps at the top, allowing heat to escape naturally without relying on mechanical systems.

The renovation also included the integration of water-saving and sustainable cooling solutions. A 125 m³ rainwater basin captures water for non-potable uses such as toilet flushing, garden irrigation, and window cleaning—achieving an estimated 30% reduction in water use. For building cooling, seawater is utilised through an environmentally friendly system that circulates approximately 190,000 m³ of freshwater annually

The updated Industriens Hus stands as a prominent example of how Danish architecture and green engineering can work in tandem. The reused structural elements minimised construction waste, while the double facade improves energy efficiency and interior comfort in a central, high-traffic location. The building’s water reuse and seawater cooling systems further enhance its environmental performance.

Today, Industriens Hus is not only a functional office space but also a visible expression of Danish industry’s commitment to sustainability. It serves as a demonstration of how urban buildings can be adapted to meet modern environmental demands while respecting their architectural and cultural context.