The task was to design a new headquarters for Aduro – a manufacturer of modern wood-burning, pellet and hybrid stoves – where functionality, aesthetics and location form a cohesive whole. On a wedge-shaped site with more than six metres of fall, the architectural concept maximises views over the city of Aarhus, separates traffic flows, and reflects Aduro’s core values: warmth, simple elegance, robustness and honesty.

The HQ comprises a three-storey office wing, a development centre and a warehouse. The warehouse is positioned closest to the access road, enabling an efficient separation between heavy and light traffic. The office wing faces north towards the landscape, minimising glare from direct sunlight while optimising the views. The building makes strategic use of the sloping site to create a dynamic arrival sequence, an open parking basement, and good conditions for cyclists and employees.

Well-being in focus

The material palette is simple and durable – brick, natural stone, tombac, concrete, and oak – all of which age beautifully. A central double-height arrival hall, connected by a sculptural helical staircase, leads to the showroom, meeting rooms, canteen, and workspaces. The top floor rises above the warehouse, offering 360-degree views, while a large south-facing roof terrace with outdoor fireplace creates a social oasis.

Special attention has been paid to daylight, acoustics and indoor climate, ensuring a healthy and pleasant working environment. The façade design responds to the sun’s path, and perforated tombac shutters reduce overheating while creating a vibrant play of light and shadow. The landscape design around a sunken courtyard adds greenery and a sense of calm to the daily work environment.