Bartholin Complex at Aarhus University has undergone a major transformation, with a complete renovation and modernization of its 11,000 square meters, led by Cubo Architects. The project has redefined the framework for the Department of Biomedicine, introducing contemporary laboratories, offices, and study environments while preserving the essential architectural qualities of the original structure.
Located at the lakes in the southern part of the University Park, the complex is a significant piece of the canonized campus architecture. As part of the wider AU Health project, which also includes the award-winning Skou Building from 2018, Bartholin Complex marks an important step in strengthening Aarhus University’s position as an international research hub.
A New Connection to Nature and Light
One of the project’s key architectural interventions is the addition of a vertical glass element inserted into the facade towards the park. This new solution gently opens the previously introverted structure, creating a semi-atrium that floods the interior with natural daylight and offers framed views to the surrounding landscape.
The glass section also generates new internal meeting spaces and informal gathering points, crucial for fostering collaboration and community within the building. At the same time, the renovation carefully respects and enhances the building's original qualities, maintaining the distinct identity of the 50-year-old structure.
The transformation includes significant energy upgrades and modernization of the laboratory facilities, including Denmark’s first and only BSL3 laboratory, a state-of-the-art, high-security environment for research on hazardous viruses. The comprehensive work with GMO-classified laboratories and associated workspaces ensures that the Department of Biomedicine can meet the latest scientific and regulatory demands.
Architectural Innovation and Artistic Integration
An architectural highlight within the building is the striking staircase, which coils through the semi-atrium in a leftward rotation, mirroring the double-helix structure of DNA—a rare and deliberate design decision, as staircases usually spiral clockwise.
Along this sculptural element, a light installation and a series of woven textile artworks by Norwegian artist Hilde Hauan Johnsen bring microscopic anatomical forms into a large-scale, tactile experience, merging art and science seamlessly within the space. Outside, the tiled artwork has been created by artist Leif Kath.
New Workspaces for a Modern Research Environment
The completed renovation has provided new workspaces for approximately 200 staff members. With its renewed relationship to the park and lakes, and its blend of classic and contemporary architecture, Bartholin Complex stands as a vibrant and future-proofed environment for education and research. At the inauguration ceremony, Rector Brian Bech Nielsen emphasized the importance of the project in maintaining the university’s leading status: “It opens up a wealth of academic opportunities and helps make Aarhus University an even more attractive partner, allowing us to create even more knowledge for the benefit of Denmark and the international community.”
The project further consolidates Cubo Architects’ longstanding contribution to the shaping of Denmark’s educational and research facilities, demonstrating a clear and sensitive understanding of how to renew and expand historic university environments for the demands of tomorrow.
