Transforming a former school and social centre, Mariehøj draws a clear profile in the landscape, becoming the new cultural hub of the area. The sweep of the architecture bridges the arrival zone of the cultural centre with the beautiful nature of Gammel Holtegaard, the building’s backyard.

Mariehøj Cultural Centre is designed as a gathering space, a place that encourages the community of Rudersdahl Municipality to come together, draw inspiration from each other and stories, new and old. This is achieved through the architecture. The sweeping form of the roof provides a natural connection between levels which, together with the transparency of its façade, make the centre approachable and welcoming from all sides. The building opens up to its surroundings, connecting the indoor spaces to nature.

Internally, the house is both a cultural activity centre and a well-functioning working place. The existing spaces were reorganised and rebuilt to provide better amenity for the differing functions to be hosted by the centre. Recognising the importance of social interaction to wellbeing, WE took this opportunity to create more spaces that encourage interactions between different age and interest groups, with the hope of strengthening community relationships.

The new foyer takes the best of the existing buildings styles and introduces a new typology not foreign to the rest of the building.