Industrial Crane Transformed Into One-of-a-Kind Luxury Penthouse

A collaboration between COAST Studio and Copenhagen-based architectural firm Arcgency, the challenge was to transform this decommissioned coal crane in Copenhagen’s Nordhavn harbour into a modern meeting space, spa and private retreat.

Dubbed the KRANE, this spectacular renovation “re-defines luxury in a hideaway for two where the art is the view,” notes Arcgency.

Arcgency describes the KRANE as “an immersive, multi-sensory experience. Inside is exclusive Danish design in black in homage to its past as a coal crane. Outside is the sea, sky, harbour and panoramic views over Copenhagen.”

Spearheaded by Arcgency owner Klaus Kastbjerg and architect/master builder Mads Møller, the KRANE is “an aesthetic oasis amidst an industrial landscape on the edge of Nordhavn, one of the last harbours under renovation in Denmark’s capital,” notes Arcgency.

The dark decor of the interior is mean to honour the structure’s “dark past as a crane for loading coal by using black as the colour scheme throughout.”

The interior of the multi-tiered structure is mean to foster “a soothing sense of serenity.”

The KRANE consists of a reception area on the ground floor, a meeting room on the first floor – which has been dubbed the Glass Box – and a spa and terrace on the second floor. On the top floor is a private retreat, the KRANE Room, that features a lounge and a terrace.

“In addition to its allusions to coal, black plays a pivotal role in muting and minimizing visual distractions so people feel almost enveloped in the interior,” explains Arcgency. “At the same time, black dramatizes the changing light and breath-taking views outside.” As Møller notes, black isn’t just black. “There are hundreds of different shades of black,” he says. “Depending on the time of day, you can see so many subtle nuances.”

The interior furnishings and design/decor details are made from such materials as leather, wood, stone and steel.

“Not only is the furniture custom-made to fit the concept and the dimensions, the interior is constructed so the primary pieces disappear – with the beds, seating and cupboards integrated into wall panels and the functional pieces hidden away,” notes Arcgency. “The result is an extra element of discovery, where objects become like sculptures in a stunning still life. Everything is handcrafted by artisans in homage to Denmark’s expertise in craftsmanship.”

A pair of deep soaker tubs are the focal point of the second-level spa area, with views looking out to the harbour.

The entire wall of the spa area is made up of massive windows, offering a singular and spectacular view of the harbour and ocean beyond.

As Møller tells Design Boom, the design “kick starts your imagination and it’s the furthest thing from cold or corporate. Here you have a panoramic view at the edge of the water.”

The esthetic is one of sleek sophistication, Nordic simplicity melded with lavish luxury.

The KRANE also makes brilliant use of exterior spaces to integrate the dark coal-black interior with the lightness of the outdoor area and the expansive openness of the location.

The observation deck isn’t merely to take in the view, it’s also meant as a spot for serenity and contemplation while observing the ocean.

Each room in the KRANE offers breathtaking views of the harbour, the ocean and the city of Copenhagen.

As the project’s chief architect explains, the locale and unique specifications of the project mean that once one is inside the KRANE, “you’re removed from the city without feeling too remote.”