Hybrid transformation: From old grain warehouse to DGNB-certified office space
With more than 50 years of experience in transforming existing buildings, Ejendomsselskabet Olav de Linde has transformed the former grain warehouse in the Danish city of Odense into modern office space that exudes both history and future-proof sustainability. The result is a modern transformation that has been DGNB certified with Gold and Heart.
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Location
Odense, Denmark
Sector
Commercial Buildings
Project Type
Refurbishment
Preserved materials and extended lifespan
The former grain warehouse now houses two bright and inviting office spaces totalling 3,983 m² in two halls, where user well-being and a good indoor climate have been considered in all solutions.
The transformation has been carried out with respect for the building's history, preserving original materials, craftsmanship and architectural details to extend the building's lifespan by another 50-100 years. The project has also served as a pilot case for the Danish Council for Sustainable Building in the work on a new manual for renovation.
Intelligent solution for fire protection and ventilation
Complying with fire regulations in older buildings can be a challenge - both financially and structurally. For this project, a more gentle and efficient solution was chosen in the form of thermal smoke extraction that also functions as a natural ventilation system. The result was an elegant two-in-one system that provides both fire safety and fresh air for the building's users. Top-hung windows were installed at the top of the building to direct the air out, while doors with approved door openers on the ground floor ensure the intake of fresh air. The upper windows are automatically controlled to function as both thermal smoke ventilation and intelligently controlled natural ventilation.
Hybrid ventilation for flexible operation and low carbon footprint
The building's high ceilings and natural buoyancy made it obvious to combine natural ventilation with a smaller mechanical system in a hybrid ventilation solution. This means that the building is optimally ventilated throughout the year, while keeping embedded CO₂ levels low compared to a fully mechanical system.
"The users are satisfied with the indoor climate, and we're actually quite proud that we've achieved energy label B for an old grain warehouse."
Morten Jørgensen
Project Manager, Ejendomsselskabet Olav de Linde
Fresh air and comfort - all year round
With hybrid ventilation, the building benefits from the forces of nature for both ventilation and cooling. When the temperature rises, the natural ventilation system switches to being the building's primary cooling solution, significantly reducing energy consumption. During particularly hot periods, the natural ventilation can be activated both day and night to ensure adequate cooling.
According to the users, the natural ventilation not only provides a comfortable indoor climate, but also acts as an efficient and energy-saving cooling solution - without compromising the original look of the building.
With great respect for the original details, the old grain warehouse has been transformed into modern office space with plenty of light, air and comfort - and a solid eye for sustainable design. The result is:
- DGNB certification with Gold and Heart
- Energy label B - even in an older building
- Contemporary indoor climate via hybrid ventilation
- Natural cooling with minimal energy consumption
- Discreet smoke extraction without large installations
- A comfort and smoke extraction solution that is also economically advantageous
"The transformed facilities are a living example of how to revitalise historic buildings with a good indoor climate and energy-efficient solutions - for the benefit of both users and urban spaces."
Gitte Thorup Tranholm
Building Performance Engineer
* Source: Case where Ramboll has carried out environmental calculations according to. EN15978 with focus on GWP - see WindowMaster.com , Life cycle assessment - A design element for ventilation system selection.