BaseCamp Lyngby: A Harmonious Blend of Architecture and Nature

Lars Gitz Architects' Innovative Student Housing Design Wins Golden A' Award

The concept of BaseCamp Lyngby was inspired by the natural, green character of the city. The architects aimed to create a structure that would not only provide low-cost student housing but also encourage students to interact with nature. The resulting design is a round, organic-shaped structure, created by rotating a trapezoid-shaped module within the same radius. This structure runs uninterruptedly through the site, creating a walking path in nature on top of the building.

Located on a relatively flat site covering 34,300 sqm, the building is well integrated into the green Lyngby neighborhood. The building's curved shape wraps around smaller courtyards, creating intimate spaces for students to meet, read, or relax. The building rises slowly from ground level to a maximum height of six floors, inviting both inhabitants and visitors to enjoy the multiple green courtyards or take a stroll along the serpentine path running the full length of the roof.

The building is certified at a DGNB Denmark “silver level”. The green roof provides a rainwater buffer, purifies the air, reduces the ambient temperature, and saves energy. The facade is Rock Panel Durable and is certified BRE (Building Research Establishment) Class A+. 90% of the energy of extracted air is reused in heating. Floor constructions accumulate heat during the day and minimize the need for heating at night. Facades are glazed in full height, so spaces are bathed in sun and daylight.

Basecamp Lyngby is a serviced campus run by a team known as Basebuddies. All rooms are furnished and have private bathrooms. The majority have their own kitchenette too. The interior design is made by Studio Aisslinger and provides great qualities in the rooms and common areas. Common areas are designed to enhance social interaction. The round central building is made solely for the students to meet and contains space for play, party, fitness, lectures, and studying.

The biggest creative challenge in this project was to create interesting and context-inspired architecture while keeping the costs very low. After a few months of research, the trapezoid shape was invented. This repetitive module creates the organic-looking serpentine structure playfully positioned around old vegetation that existed on the plot.

BaseCamp Lyngby is a testament to the innovative and sustainable design approach of Lars Gitz Architects. By seamlessly blending architecture with nature, the project not only provides a unique living space for students but also contributes to the green character of the city. As the winner of the prestigious Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020, BaseCamp Lyngby sets a new standard for student housing design.