Architect couple Frank Maali and Gemma Lalanda have transformed a mid-century garage into a cultural catalyst titled Vipp Garage.
Vipp Garage in Copenhagen’s Islands Brygge area is the newest member in Vipp’s portfolio of design experiences which has been growing steadily for the past seven years and now counts five hotel destinations and a supper club in addition to Vipp Garage. Architects Frank Maali & Gemma Lalanda have transformed the mid-century garage into a new cultural destination for Vipp.
“We chose to pull the building towards the north to make space for a small outdoor courtyard. In that way, natural light is funneled into the space through floor to ceiling glass walls that can open towards the light court. The original southern wall is kept intact and is supported by buttresses that also act as sculptural elements, and the original chimney acts as a built-in fireplace. To complete the small outdoor haven, a Japanese maple is planted to adorn the space and to emphasize the magic of Vipp Garage.”
Inside, vaulted brick ceilings by Randers Tegl are an homage to Holger Nielsen, who founded Vipp in 1939 in the city of Randers. The impressive 4.5 m height brick ceiling adds warmth and tactility to a nuanced space defined by concrete, steel, and iron. The floors are made of polished black concrete pebbles, while the walls are dressed in patinated dark steel plates that dance at different rhythms as sunlight moves through the space.
A cherry on top – almost literally – is the rooftop terrace with a little “greenhouse” boasting a Vipp kitchen with views to Copenhagen’s skyline and harbour.
