Thoravej 29: What Can Be Reused, Must Be Reused

Thoravej 29 in Copenhagen’s Nordvest district is a story of reuse and creativity, where nothing goes to waste. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding, the building has undergone a transformation that points toward the future.

Thoravej 29 has changed function multiple times over the years. Originally constructed in 1967 by architect Erik Stengade, it was first used by the fur industry, later converted into laboratories for the Geological Survey of Denmark, and then served as home to Copenhagen Municipality’s disability administration.

Nearly 60 years after its construction, the industrial building has undergone an ambitious and extensive transformation focused on sustainability. Everything that could be reused has been renovated, relocated, or repurposed. Old concrete slabs have been turned into staircases and furniture, while surplus facade bricks now serve as flooring.

Significant Carbon Reduction

These high ambitions have resulted in documented impact. A report from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) on the Thoravej 29 project shows that compared to constructing an entirely new building, CO2 emissions from the project were 3 to 9 times lower. Waste production was reduced by 90 percent, and 95 percent of the original materials were either reused or recycled.

The renovation also significantly extends the building’s lifespan and demonstrates how circular economy principles can be an integral part of sustainable construction.

A Hub for Creativity and Change

But Thoravej 29 is more than just a sustainable building – it is a community where people from different professions and backgrounds come together. Here, major societal challenges are addressed, and good intentions are turned into concrete solutions. Thoravej 29 serves as a space for social initiatives, where civil society, public institutions, and businesses collaborate to support young people outside the education and job markets.

The building houses organizations such as the Bikuben Foundation and the “Home for All” alliance and functions as neutral ground where different stakeholders can meet and exchange knowledge.

Art and Performing Arts at the Center

Thoravej 29 is also an artistic hub, offering a wide range of facilities. Studios, workshops, an exhibition space, recording studios, a stage, meeting rooms, and a library are just some of the amenities available to members. Visitors are also welcome to explore the space – for example, the house’s café, which is open to everyone.