Skibshandlen / Ship Chandler's House | RAVN Arkitektur

Originally built as the home of ship owner Carl Hansen, the building marks the location of
Vejle’s earliest harbour front. In 1931 the building was transformed into a ship chandlers’
warehouse and shop and functioned as such until recently.

RAVN Arkitektur was given the task of converting the historic building into a modern highend
office space, catering to the needs of an ambitious investment company.

The brief was to preserve and restore the building’s east facing facade, whilst creating an
interior suitable for a contemporary office. As has been the case for nearly 100 years the
ground floor and basement are occupied by a shop.

The Eastern facade is characterised by the carefully restored columns, cornices and
parapets. The original bricks and tiles were restored to their original splendour, adding bright
colour to the exterior.

Towards the back of the building, a new private courtyard provides an enclosed parking
space and a place for private contemplation for those working in the building. An entrance
portal clad in tombac marks the transition from old to new.

The ornamented and highly decorated facade is contrasted by the rawness and simple lines
of the interior. The original brick walls have been left exposed, whilst the new interior walls
stand crisp and white.