Wow what a view. This is Gemini Residence. Right here on Islands Brygge.
Before you stand two former seed silos. They were part of the Dansk Soyakagefabrik. This soybean processing plant was huge. In the 1950s it employed 1200 people mostly local workers. Imagine the activity back then.
The plant closed in the 1990s. The area was redeveloped. These silos became something new. Something extraordinary. MVRDV architects transformed them. They were reborn as Gemini Residence. A residential building with 84 apartments.
The conversion took place from 2002 to 2005. The architects kept the original concrete cylinders. They are 42 meters tall and 25 meters wide. The hollow cores are now the infrastructure. Stairs elevators and hallways are inside.
The apartments are on the exterior. They cling to the outside of the silos. Floor to ceiling windows offer stunning views. Each apartment has a balcony. At the base the raw concrete remains. This shows the buildings’ history. It creates a unique overhang. A passage exists between the quay and the street.
The name Gemini Residence is clever. It refers to the twin silos. It also refers to the astrological sign Gemini. The Twins. A perfect name.
The building’s interior is a marvel. The two silos are connected on each floor. The floor plan resembles the infinity symbol. A Texlon roof caps the rotundas. It lets in natural light. The lobby is as tall as the building. Residents and visitors can move freely up and down.
Gemini Residence is more than just apartments. It is a testament to innovative architecture. It is a symbol of transformation. It blends history and modernity. It stands as a proud landmark on the Copenhagen waterfront. A true symbol of the city’s dynamic spirit. Don’t you agree?