H.C.Ørstedsvej 54, Frederiksberg

Facts

Functionalism in Frederiskberg

By Vibeke Andersson Møller (16 stories)

The building at 54 H.C. Ørstedsvej, Frederiksberg, was built in 1939 by architect Edvard Thomsen for his father, master painter Johannes Thomsen. The four-storey building was to house a post office on the ground floor and flats on the other storeys. The flats were accessed at the rear of the building from an external gallery. The different intended uses of the building is reflected in the facade: the ground floor was covered with yellow tiles, the next two storeys were covered with light coloured plaster, while the upper storey was painted green. The roof was white corrugated fibre cement board.

Not a public place

Listen to the story
Share

Contribute to H.C.Ørstedsvej 54, Frederiksberg

Have you visited / Want to visit? Contribute to this place Add to route

Recommend Log in or create profile to recommend

Selected entry

Function defines form

Story written by Vibeke Andersson Møller

Time / Periode 1939

0 comments 1 recommendations

The functionalist style of the building is in line with many of the ideals of the day. The street-level facade follows a serrated pattern in order to match the uneven ground. The balconies and dormers are also off-set, which gives a sense of being secluded. The flats are designed to ensure they receive as much light as possible, thanks to the balcony and windows that in some places were made of translucent glass bricks. The choice of glass bricks instead of regular windows was due in part to the proximity of the building across the road. The emphasis on light and fresh air is in keeping with functionalist ideals. The flats are small, but they were rationally laid out. Extra space was added by installing fold-up Murphy beds.