Svendborg Court Building
The court building in Svendborg was originally built in 1881 as a typical representative of historicism. The historical part of the building, the courthouse and the jail is constructed of red brick with a slate roof. The building’s inner courtyard was once enclosed by a quarter-circle brick wall, which defined the original layout of the site.
Facts
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Lead Consultant
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The Danish Court Administration
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Svendborg, Denmark
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2,100 sqm
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Completed in 2011
Respect for the heritage
The extension, designed by Alex Poulsen Architects, has been developed with respect for the existing building’s architecture, material expression and design. The design of the extension is characterized by its quarter-circle shape, inspired by the former courtyard wall, which has been removed but is reinterpreted in another form. The modern extension contrasts with the historic architecture. The expression of the new extension enhances and draws attention to the historical details and building practices found in the original architecture.
Natural light
Throughout the building’s interior design, detailed impressions have been incorporated, which can be experienced through the choice of materials as well as in the integrated artwork created by Finn Naur Petersen. The art, consisting of small crystal lamps and figures, adorns the corridors of the police station.
Connection to nature
A trellis in front of the continuous glass façade connects the extension directly to the surrounding park, filtering sunlight and integrating the courthouse with its natural setting. The main courthouse includes two large courtrooms, while the extension houses smaller courtrooms and meeting rooms for the Enforcement Court and the Probate Court, ensuring both functional efficiency and architectural continuity.
