Innovative Design and Location of the Kengo Kuma Brick Towers
Set to open on December 5, 2026, Kengo Kuma & Associates’ KAI Water Culture House, featuring the captivating structures, brings a unique swimming and bathing experience to Copenhagen’s Papirøen, or Paper Island. This 5,800-square-meter facility introduces ten swimming pools to the city’s transitioning harborfront, historically known for industrial use but now embracing public recreation.
For aficionados of architectural brilliance, explore how Kengo Kuma’s architectural contributions have been recognized with a prestigious lifetime achievement award.
Architectural Features and Materials
The building is marked by five irregular brick formations that rise above a continuous band of glass. These sloping structures create a striking silhouette along the quay, offering glimpses of the sky between their volumes. The complex’s heavy masonry appears to float above its transparent base, providing an intriguing sense of lightness.
Meticulous Brickwork and Windows
Covered with approximately 300,000 handmade bricks in various gray tones, the design harmonizes with the city’s harbor architecture. The bricks are laid in a stepped pattern, giving the walls a unique texture. The structure features 403 windows, designed to welcome natural light into the bathing areas and offer views over the harbor.
Open-Air Swimming Experiences
Among the most distinctive features is the Valley Pool, positioned open-air between the towers. This pool provides a scenic swimming experience with the sky overhead and views of the textured masonry. Additionally, a heated outdoor onsen overlooking Copenhagen Harbour is designed for year-round enjoyment, utilizing a ground-source heat pump system.
Those interested in integrating nature with design will be intrigued by the innovative membrane designs transforming global architecture projects.
Comprehensive Swimming Facilities
The ground level houses a 25-meter fitness pool, a teaching pool, and three children’s pools. The upper floors offer warmer bathing areas and a cold plunge pool, with saunas and a steam bath enhancing the wellness offerings. Transparent lower levels connect swimmers visually with the waterfront, adding to the immersive experience within the structure.
Future Developments
In early 2027, additional public bathing facilities will open, including a timber boardwalk leading to designated harbor swimming areas. The project stemmed from a 2015 city-hosted ideas competition, evolved through a collaboration with Cornelius Vöge Atelier for Architecture and Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects, and fulfills a long-held public vision for Paper Island. These developments continue to highlight the prominence of the design within the Copenhagen Harbor landscape.
Photography by © Rasmus Hjortshøj | @rasmus_hjortshoj
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the opening date for Kengo Kuma’s brick towers?
The Kengo Kuma & Associates’ KAI Water Culture House is set to open on December 5, 2026.
Where are the Kengo Kuma brick towers located?
The Kengo Kuma brick towers are located on Copenhagen’s Papirøen, or Paper Island.
What features do the open-air swimming areas have?
Among the distinctive features is the Valley Pool, positioned open-air between the towers, providing a scenic swimming experience. Additionally, a heated outdoor onsen overlooking Copenhagen Harbour is designed for year-round enjoyment.
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