The new domicile for public authority Udbetaling Danmark (UDK) in Holstebro
manages a series of vital social services, such as state pension and maternity
pay, for the entire region of Midwestern Denmark. The building gathers
employees from several municipalities in one new administration building, which
has to handle and ensure a centralized and efficient service for the citizens.
The
project’s architectural scope consists of meeting two overall demands. Firstly,
the architecture has to radiate high quality and efficiency as well as openness
and helpfulness, as the centre administers financial affairs for a large group
of citizens. Thus, the project adapts to the surrounding context, while at the
same time calling attention to itself and its location with a formal language
of its own – without appearing ostentatious. Secondly, the architecture has to
create and support a working environment that combines optimal conditions for
internal collaborations and social relations with a modern office landscape
that is bound together by a logical, flexible and transparent structure.