Copenhagen-based architecture firm EFFEKT has unveiled its new worm-like Visitor Centre for Mols Bjerg National Park of Denmark. Named Mols Bjerge Visitor Centre, the new structure is located in the preserved Mols Bjerg National Park – a 180km2 large natural landscape, including a royal castle from the Middle Ages, Kalø Castle Ruin. The project received the 2nd prize in an international competition. 

The café with a view towards Kalø Castle Ruin

Encompassing a 900 square-metre space at site, the visitor centre is discreetly set into the sensitive nature, oriented towards the Castle Ruin. The building is inspired by the area's inherent materials, colours and landscape and becomes a subtle yet distinctive structure that respects its surroundings. 

At the same time the visitor centre stands proud and visibly in the landscape with a unique architectural identity, creating a new iconic land mark.

The visitor centre seen from east with Kalø Castle Ruin in the background

The building tectonics follow the rugged landscape, creating two floor plans, with a double high room facing the Castle Ruin. The orientation of the building also frames a stunning view towards the Castle Ruin. 

Inside, an exhibition area tells the story of Kalø Castle Ruin and provides attractive spaces for recreation, as well as functional program including a café, restaurant and boutique. A south facing covered terrace mediates the indoor and the outdoor areas of the café. 

The entrance from the parking area

Terraced landscaping between the new addition and the existing building offers informal recreational space in the landscape, as well as intuitive wayfinding on the outside of the building towards the main entry or the café.

The foyer

The exhibition area

The stairs leading to the café from the south

The building materials are chosen with inspiration from the surroundings and consists of wood, brick and natural stone

EFFEKT won two World Architecture Community Awards with Estonian Academy of Arts in the 2nd Cycle and Gadeokdo Zero Carbon Island in the 8th Cycle. 

All images © EFFEKT 

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