The best from the North
Even if Denmark is always associated with wind power, for many years of course the country mainly burned coal to heat its homes. Something to which an old coal crane in Copenhagen’s North Harbor attests. Long since decommissioned, the crane has now in the course of the modernization of the grounds been transformed into an unusual overnighting and work destination called “The Krane”. Project developer Klaus Kastbjerg and architect Mads Møller at Arcgency have converted the portal crane with the idea of creating a getaway with spectacular rooms and breathtaking views.
In the iron substructure beneath the crane proper, a conference room has been integrated in the form of a shipping container with completely glazed walls. It offers an outlook over the harbor and the sea and is open on all sides to the platforms running round it. Instead of the massive counterweight of the harbor crane there is now a small spa with two standalone tubs in front of a large glass wall.
The actual crane with its huge boom has been converted into an elegant suite. While the crane’s derrick, where the engines were once housed, now contains a bedroom and dining room complete with bathroom and a kitchenette, and the crane’s cabin with its glass walls has been transformed into a small lounge. The interior boasts different shades of black, alluding to the crane’s former function hoisting coal.
"The Krane" sets out to be more than just a marvelous retreat with a grand view, but also a window on Danish design. To this end, its makers have chosen products by some of the country’s most innovative companies. The lighting is courtesy of various brands by luminaire makers Anker & Co, which is also based in Copenhagen’s North harbor. Bang & Olufsen contributed the TV and audio system. Wood specialists Dinesen provided the floor boards, the walls and the ceilings in the suite, while all the textiles and curtains are courtesy of Kvadrat; the furniture and living-room accessories were made by Menu while the bathroom fittings are by Vola. (fap)
