The Red Cross Volunteer Home is an extension of the Red Cross headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark. This triangular building features a large public staircase covering 850 square meters on its roof, connecting the street level to the building’s second floor. The entire construction spans 750 square meters, partly underground, and serves as the main entrance for both the Red Cross headquarters and the Volunteer Home.
Designed collaboratively by the architectural team and volunteers, the Red Cross Volunteer Home provides a sustainable environment for Denmark’s 34,000 volunteers, offering a vibrant space for work and community gatherings.
The striking sloped staircase roof integrates seamlessly with the surrounding area, echoing the unique architectural characteristics of the neighborhood. It complements nearby landmarks such as Fælledparken Park, the Danish Freemasonry building, and the Red Cross headquarters itself, which was renovated from the former Copenhagen City Hall and features yellow brickwork.
The stepped roof is constructed using the same yellow bricks, creating a cohesive visual connection. This space has become a popular summer gathering spot, where volunteers and staff hold meetings, pedestrians pause to rest, and locals enjoy exercising, coffee, and leisure activities.
Upon entering, both the Volunteer Center and Red Cross headquarters share a common arrival area. To the left, the Volunteer Home opens up with an open staircase and auditorium capable of hosting over 100 people. This space connects to a series of conference rooms designed for training sessions, meetings, events, document presentations, BIM learning film screenings, and various other activities.
The stepped roof faces the headquarters, offering clear views from every point within the Volunteer Home. The original structure and the new extension are connected by a green park, which creates a shared space for staff and volunteers alike, fostering ideal conditions for collaboration and growth.
Design Drawings:
▲ Site Plan
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Lower Floor Plan
▲ Roof Plan
Project Information:
Architectural Firm: COBE
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Category: Community Center
Building Area: 750 square meters
Year Completed: 2017
Photographer: Rasmus Hjortshøj – COAST
Client: Danish Red Cross
Engineering Construction: Søren Jensen
Landscape Design: COBE
Collaborators: C.C. Bruun Entreprise, Volunteers of the Danish Red Cross
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