The Wave

Sitting by the rolling hills of Vejle Fjord, a huge contrast to the overwhelmingly flat landscape of Denmark lies an iconic wavy residential block designed to set a new striking presence to the city skyline.

The Wave is a 14,000-sqm apartment block with 100 units distributed among its five, nine-storey towers – with each peak working as a double-height penthouse apartment.

Designed by Copenhagen-based firm Henning Larsen Architects, The Wave demonstrates how global trends are integrated into Danish architecture without sacrificing the craftsmanship and intricate detailing the country is well-known for.

Its distinctive waves are formed using terracotta rain screen cladding that creates a seamless outer skin of glazed white sheet. The lip of each wave extends into a curvilinear eave that lingers above a crystalline façade of protruding balconies.

The clever incorporation of adaptable form and materials created a pseudo-shape shifting silhouette that blends with the existing landscape. Wherein morphed views of the residential block are reflected on the nearby sea throughout the day, an illuminating profile of multi-colored mountains command the building at night. Either way, it creates a unique, organic mimicry of the landscape by allowing the weather and time of day to dictate its appearance.

In an effort to kick start the regeneration of the city’s waterfront, each tower is concluded with a large set of steps leading to a public walkway – which is then connected to a wooden decked area, offering access to the nearby waters.

A catalyst of activity and social change, the multi-faceted nature of The Wave simultaneously revitalizes the community and the waterfront surrounding it – integrating a new visual identity to town while honoring the cinematic landscape behind it into a warm embrace.