The new urban media space in Aarhus, Denmark, is called Dokk1 (pronounced Dokk-en), lies on the estuary leading into the bay and is one of two bastions at the cross-point between city and harbor. With 36,000 m² of floor space, it is said to be the largest public library in Scandinavia.
This multi-functional building contains the former central library as well as the municipal archives, city administrative headquarters and office rental space. The ground floor, being at street level, serves traffic and provides access. This is where a stop for the new regional light-railway and automated underground car park is located. Pedestrians seek out public functions in the storeys above by means of internal stairs and lifts via four large, spacious external stairs visible from any orientation. The steps facing west towards the river promenade and the city center are seen to be extending a welcoming gesture toward citizens. The harbor’s new esplanade runs around the block at street level; large concrete surfaces fan out like ice floes, inviting one to linger by the river or port.
