the construction of a new school of architecture has begun

On 28 January the first turf was cut for a new school of architecture located at Godsbanearealerne in Aarhus. The memorable day was celebrated with speeches, cold beer and hot soup. Several hundred people turned out for the event. And as 100 spades had been made available, everyone was able to lend a hand building the new school, which is expected to be ready for occupation in 2021.

In establishing the new school of architecture, the project’s developer, The Danish Building & Property Agency, has launched a new form of cooperation, in which all parties of the building project work closely together throughout the project. This has resulted in a particularly fruitful collaboration between The Danish Building & Property Agency, Aarhus School of Architecture and the consulting team.

Highlights from the speeches

Mayor of Aarhus Jacob Bundsgaard stressed the importance of the school as an institution that trains architects for the city’s many architectural firms, thereby contributing to Aarhus’ international reputation as a city of architecture and design.

Jointly with the school’s new neighbour, Institut for (X), various facilities will be established along the building site fence, including exhibition pavilions, workshop facilities, and a reuse marketplace. “Activities which we hope will connect Institut for (X) and the building site physically – but also create ties between us, as neighbours in the urban district,” said Kristine Leth, prorector of Aarhus School of Architecture.

According to Ole Birk Olesen, Danish Minister for Transport, Building and Housing, the new school of architecture exemplifies the potential of the Danish construction industry and Danish architecture:
“With all the creative and entrepreneurial enthusiasts present in the area, I think we will see a transformation unlike any we have ever seen before anywhere else – an ideal urban transformation. ”

Following the speeches, the 100 spades were used to mark the beginning of the construction of the new school. To conclude the event, Institut for (X) invited everyone inside for cold beer and hot soup.