URBAN-SPLIT

Project idea

Inspired by the principles of Life Between Buildings, this project reinterprets architecture not as isolated objects, but as a framework for human interaction. Housing the offices of Jan Gehl, the building becomes a physical manifestation of his vision for people-centered cities.
The sculptural vertical waves define the architectural identity of the project. Rather than functioning as solid barriers, they create a rhythmic sequence of “urban buildings,” shaping the spaces in between where public life unfolds. These interstitial spaces become the true heart of the project—encouraging movement, encounter, pause, and social exchange.
The transparent facade dissolves the boundary between interior and exterior, expressing openness, accessibility, and civic engagement. In this way, the project transforms administration into an active urban platform where professionals, citizens, and the city itself interact.
More than a building, the project is an exploration of how architecture can frame everyday life, demonstrating that the quality of a city is defined not only by its buildings, but by the life that happens between them.

Project description

The administrative headquarters is designed to accommodate approximately 160 employees, creating a dynamic workplace that fosters collaboration, innovation, and public engagement. The program includes flexible office spaces, executive departments, meeting rooms, and support facilities, complemented by a conference hall for 100 participants and a restaurant serving 80 users.
Organized across multiple levels, the building promotes transparency and interaction through open work environments and shared social spaces. The sculptural vertical elements define the architectural identity of the project while framing the spaces between them, where everyday activities unfold. Inspired by Life Between Buildings, the building functions not only as a workplace but also as an urban platform that connects professionals, visitors, and the wider community.
Through its flexible program and human-centered design, the project transforms administrative space into an active and inclusive environment that encourages social exchange and collective experience.

Technical information

The building is designed with a reinforced concrete structural system that provides stability, durability, and flexibility for large-span office spaces. Vertical load-bearing elements, slabs, and the central core ensure structural efficiency while allowing adaptable interior layouts for future needs.The facade is composed of a high-performance curtain wall system with full-height glazing, maximizing natural daylight and visual transparency. Low-emissivity glass improves thermal performance and energy efficiency while maintaining strong visual connections with the surrounding urban environment.
The sculptural vertical fins are envisioned as precast architectural concrete panels or GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) elements. Beyond defining the building’s identity, these elements function as passive shading devices, reducing solar gain and improving indoor comfort.Interior finishes incorporate sustainable and durable materials, including raised floors for flexible building services, suspended ceilings with integrated lighting systems, and acoustic panels to enhance workplace comfort. Natural stone paving and landscaped green areas extend the architectural language into the public realm, creating a cohesive relationship between the building and its surroundings.
The material palette combines glass, concrete, steel, and natural textures to express transparency, permanence, and contemporary civic architecture.

Documentation

Show PDF 1