Have you ever felt the playful distortion of a funhouse mirror? The Mirror House in Copenhagen invites you to do just that. Standing before you is a whimsical pavilion a transformation of a once-neglected playground structure. This isn’t just any building. This is the Mirror House a unique and respectful installation in a newly renovated park.
The Mirror House was designed by Danish-American architects MLRP. Completed in 2011 it serves as a flexible space even providing restrooms for kindergarten classes. Its history is one of revitalization. A sad and anonymous building plagued by graffiti was reborn into a vibrant hub of activity. The architects used simple means to achieve this extraordinary transformation.
The building’s gabled ends are clad in mirror-polished stainless steel. These aren’t ordinary mirrors. They’re funhouse mirrors designed to engage children in a playful exploration of perspective reflection and transformation. The effect is mesmerizing. The mirrors create a seamless transition between the building and the surrounding park. They reflect the playground’s activity the park’s greenery. It is a magical interplay of architecture and nature. The doors themselves also feature these amazing mirrors.
During the day the building’s shutters open. Children are drawn to its playful surfaces. They see themselves transformed in all directions. It’s a spectacle of distorted reflections a visual delight. At night however the shutters close. The Mirror House then becomes anonymous melting into the darkness of the night.
The rest of the building is clad in heat-modified wood a sustainable and durable material. This Thermo Wood is a clever choice. It increases the wood’s longevity reducing the need for maintenance. It’s also a responsible alternative to tropical hardwoods. The roof was even redesigned to hide new installations. The original downspouts and roof membrane continue to function unseen beneath the new shell.
The Mirror House is more than just a beautiful building. It is a testament to the power of sustainable renovation. It’s a project completed with limited funds. Yet it manages to extend the life of an existing building. It proves that revitalization can be both responsible and visually stunning. So take a moment to appreciate this playful marvel the Mirror House. Let the distorted reflections remind you of the transformative power of imagination and creative design.