FÆNGSLET "The Prison" in Horsens
The 10th VELUX Daylight Symposium will take place in the heart of Horsens, Denmark, where stands FÆNGSLET, a building with a storied past and a bright future. Originally constructed as a prison, FÆNGSLET was a place of confinement and solitude, where sunlight was a rare visitor, and shadows dominated the landscape. The thick walls and iron bars were designed to keep the outside world at bay, creating an environment that was stark and unyielding.
However, as the years passed, the purpose of FÆNGSLET began to evolve.
Visionaries saw potential in its sturdy structure and historical significance. They imagined a place where light could penetrate the darkness, where creativity could flourish, and where the past could meet the future in a harmonious blend.
The transformation of FÆNGSLET began with a simple yet profound idea: to invite daylight into its very core.
Architects and designers reimagined the space, cutting through the heavy walls to create large windows and renovate the roof with VELUX Modular Skylights. These new openings allowed natural light to flood the interior, casting warm, golden hues across the once-gloomy corridors. The once oppressive atmosphere has been replaced by a sense of openness and possibility. The central courtyard, which was once a place of isolation, is now a vibrant gathering space where people come together to share ideas and celebrate creativity.
FÆNGSLET Press Photos
"Locked up in the beauty of daylight"
FÆNGSLET has become a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of transformation through daylight. It hosts a variety of events, from art exhibitions to concerts, each one illuminated by the natural light that now fills the space. The building’s history is still palpable, but it is now intertwined with a sense of renewal and hope.
Visitors to FÆNGSLET are struck by the contrast between its past and present. They walk through the halls, feeling the warmth of the sun on their skin, and marvel at how a place once defined by darkness has been reborn as a symbol of light and creativity. Every corner of FÆNGSLET holds a story, and every gathering ignites a spark of innovation.
In this way, FÆNGSLET stands as a great example of how the thoughtful integration of daylight can transform a building, breathing new life into its walls and creating a space that is both functional and inspiring. It is a reminder that even the most unlikely places can become sources of light and creativity, given the right vision.