all images © Henning Larsen Architects 

The largest hotel in the southern region of Denmark is now a reality, and is being designed by Henning Larsen Architects. The Bitten and Mads Clausen Foundation (BMC) and PFA Pension are investing in the property, and the municipality of Sønderborg is serving as developer of the harbor area.

The hotel is part of Frank Gehry's master plan which will change Sønderborg's waterfront into a new district with homes, offices and public cultural activities. The hotel will have 190 rooms, three restaurants, conference facilities for 400 people, and various spa services. 

"The new hotel will be a huge benefit to the development of Sønderborg. The hotel will generate growth and draw tourism to the whole area. The number of hotel rooms in Sønderborg will be doubled, and we will attract new conference guests, business people and tourists to the city," says Peter M. Clausen, President of BMC Foundation. 

The hotel has an elegant and distinctive shape, consisting of a tall tower and a lower building volume. The lower volume is the same height as the neighboring buildings and the 18-story, 72-meter-high tower will stand as a beacon of the city. 

The tower houses a viewing platform with panoramic views of both the historical and modern parts of town. All of Sønderborg's citizens and visitors will have the opportunity to experience the city and the beautiful landscape from a new angle. Because of its height and central location directly at Alssund, the tower can be experienced from afar and up close. The building is a living sculpture in the city, and offers a changing experience as it is approached. 

The two new forms relate respectfully to the historic townscape of Sønderborg, their façades inspired by the play of colors in the local characteristic brickwork patterns. The façade is composed of aluminum panels and glass, creating a modern interpretation of a brickwork pattern, which weaves its way up the building. Towards the harbor, the building creates a terraced public urban space that leads down to and connects with the harbor front. To the south, the composition forms a visual connection between the hotel and Sønderborg Castle, a little farther south. 

The total construction is 25,000 m2, of which guest rooms make up 11,000 m2, spa facilities 4,300 m2, 2,500 m2 of conference facilities, 1,300 m2 lobby, and three restaurants spread over 2,200 m2. The hotel's final name will be revealed during the summer, and the groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled to take place in the autumn. It is expected that the hotel will be opened in 2018.

> via Henning Larsen Architects