The Ferry – Renovation and Transformation
At the corner of Godthåbsvej and Sallingvej stands “Færgen” – a functionalist masterpiece by Frits Schlegel. The renovation and transformation secure the building’s future usability while honoring the architecture and the original design language of its time.
Located in Vanløse, the striking property was designed by Frits Schlegel in 1935–37 for Handelsbanken. Færgen is regarded as a key work in Danish functionalism and accommodates both housing and commercial functions.
The complex consists of a diagonally placed main building of five storeys with housing and commercial premises at ground level, as well as a recessed penthouse floor currently housing a shared laundry and drying loft. Towards Sallingvej and Godthåbsvej, the main building is complemented by single-storey commercial wings. Today, the façades are whitewashed, while the ground floor is clad in marble.
The project comprises a comprehensive façade restoration with external insulation and replacement of all windows. The existing internal insulation is removed and renewed, while the original functionalist expression of the building is preserved through a historically informed colour scheme.
At the same time, the laundry is relocated from the rooftop to the basement, freeing space for the creation of a new penthouse apartment – adding a new dimension to the property while remaining respectful of Schlegel’s original architecture.
