A work of the Aarhus-based firm 3XN, the building is characterized by a wooden ‘wave’ over the main entrance, a reference to the fishing boat-building tradition of Lemvig, a port city on Denmark’s west coast. The concave form incorporates a play of steps that can be sat on. Its surface of natural wood contrasts with the black-dyed cladding of the bulding’s upper floor. Using a reduced palette of materials – wood, concrete, steel – the center for research on storm surges, water, and climate features an exhibition area, offices, meeting rooms, and a café.

The Nordic firm SLA did the landscape design, which includes a flood defense system, a ‘climate corridor’ with outdoor sports and recreational facilities, and a wooden jetty providing space for events.