dorte mandrup bases abstract lookout tower by the danish waterfront

dorte mandrup bases abstract lookout tower by the danish waterfront
all images © torben eskerod

visualized as an abstract and sculptural object from afar, the new viewing tower by copenhagen practice dorte mandrup arkitekter serves as a beacon by the harbor at aarhus, denmark. named ‘the salling tower’, the urban sculpture features a white steel body and punctuated by circular perforations.

the landmark explores experience through movement and visitors are led onto an upper platform of 7.5 meters above the quay. the journey through the tower leads under an inclined surface and finishes on the highest viewing platform that looks out onto the water and city.

the upper platform is 7.5 meters above the water

the structure seemingly hovers above the water; its folded geometry referencing its maritime context. the peek holes and the steel plate materiality instills the feeling of being at sea. at night, LED backlighting illuminates the tower from the inside, reminiscent of the masts of neighboring cargo ships.

large peek holes frame views of the harbor context

the tower is a gift to the city donated by the salling funds

visitors are encouraged to climb the landmark

the materiality and viewing holes reference the harbor and its maritime context

a lift has also been installed for wheelchair users

at night, the structure is illuminated from within through LED