🇩🇰
Denmark
The Black Diamond
"The Black Diamond," an architectural marvel in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a stunning extension of the Royal Danish Library. It was officially opened to the public on September 7, 1999. The masterpiece, designed by Danish architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen, takes its name from its iridescent exterior of black marble and glass.
The structure is a 20,733 square meter building, situated on the waterfront in Copenhagen. Its unique design, a sharp-edged, prism-like structure, reflects the sunlight off the water, giving it an alluring sparkle, reminiscent of a black diamond, hence the name. The exterior, clad with Absolute Black granite, mined in Zimbabwe and cut and polished in Italy, is not just striking but also symbolic, representing the diverse and valuable knowledge inside.
Stepping inside the Black Diamond, you are greeted by a vast, light-filled atrium, the backbone of the building. The interior is designed to be as visually stunning as the exterior, and it indeed succeeds. The building’s interior is a delightful juxtaposition of light and dark. The polished black granite and glass exterior allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a well-lit, inviting space.
Apart from housing a significant part of the library's collections, the Black Diamond also hosts the National Museum of Photography, a bookshop, a café, a restaurant, and the Dronningesalen Concert Hall, which seats up to 600 people. The building's design allows for a harmonious blend of these multiple functions, creating a cultural hub where knowledge, art, and architecture coalesce.
The Black Diamond is not just a library but also an epitome of modern Danish architecture. It incorporates elements of sustainability, with a seawater cooling system, making it an eco-friendly structure. Its unique design has made it a must-visit landmark in Copenhagen, attracting not just book lovers but also architecture enthusiasts.
The Black Diamond is indeed a testament to Denmark's commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural history while embracing modernity and innovation. Its majestic presence on the Copenhagen waterfront is an irresistible attraction that continues to fascinate visitors from all over the world.