A safe haven: Aiding people through thoughtful design

Stofindtagelsesrum

Client

Københavns Kommune

Location

Copenhagen, Denmark

Area

1,000 m²

PLH designed Scandinavia's largest supervised drug consumption facility at Halmtorvet 17, Copenhagen. The project balances user dignity with safety, offering a carefully designed environment where vulnerable individuals can safely consume substances under professional supervision. The architecture fosters security, well-being, and a sense of stability for users, staff, and the local community.

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Gallery

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Introduction

Discipline

Architecture Strategic Advisory Interior Design

Typology

Health Transformation & Revitalisation Communities & Culture

Status

Completed

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Quote

This project is a remarkable example of social architecture that embodies PLH’s commitment to bringing out the best in people. Balancing the diverse needs of users, staff, and stakeholders required empathy and innovation. Our goal was to create a safe, dignified environment that not only meets practical requirements but also contributes positively to the community.
Lars Toksvig, Partner, PLH

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Summary

Wish for safe haven for drug consumption

Københavns Kommune sought a facility offering safe and supervised spaces for drug consumption while improving the living conditions of users and minimizing substance-related issues in the area. The project had to integrate functionality, safety, and compassion while respecting the architectural heritage of Copenhagen’s Grey Meatpacking District.

Extensive understanding of contrasting needs

The facility’s design reflects extensive user involvement and stakeholder workshops. It had to address contrasting needs: creating dignified spaces for users while ensuring safety and oversight for staff and authorities. Principles of flow, transparency, and color psychology guided the process to foster calm and positive interactions.

Balancing hard and soft values

The facility includes 24 consumption spaces across six injection rooms, 12 smoking stations, and six flexible areas, complemented by recovery zones and a café. Colors and layouts nudge user behavior positively: calming greens and blues welcome users, transitioning to warm tones in recovery areas. The renovation respected the industrial character of the Meatpacking District while ensuring robust materials for intensive use. The open layout facilitates visual oversight, minimizing conflicts and enhancing safety.

The project exemplifies the careful balance of user-centric empathy with stakeholder demands. The design merges "hard" requirements for safety with "soft" values like dignity and community, ensuring alignment with diverse interests, including users, healthcare staff, law enforcement, and local residents.