Having first been lit in 1900, the lighthouse was abandoned for years prior to this revitalization project. In 1968, a giant sand dune destroyed much of the Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, leaving the tower as the only remaining structure. The surrounding cliffs are rapidly eroding into the sea, posing an ever-growing danger to the lighthouse itself—a fact the designers embraced with their outward-in kaleidoscope installation.
Related: JAJA Architects reinvent the parking garage into a green community gathering space with park ‘n’ play
An enormous inverted pyramid, clad in kaleidoscope mirrors, was mounted in the lighthouse’s tower where the beacon usually resides. Instead of sending beams of light to illuminate the waves, the lighthouse captures daylight and turns it inward. Bouncing off the kaleidoscope’s mirrors, the light and images of the seascape are reflected and multiplied in a marvelous game of hide and seek. In effect, the installation is a metaphor for turning the lighthouse inside out, which is precisely what may happen when the cliff beneath finally succumbs to the sea.
This cool project is actually just one part of a nationwide effort to reclaim and revitalize landmarks across the Danish landscape. The series of architectural renovations, with artistic flair, is meant to invigorate the public’s awareness and education of many of the unique and remarkable areas of the country. As with the Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, many of the projects highlight locations of historical significance that may not endure much longer, as the changing landscape continues to evolve.
Via urdesign
Images via Hampus Per Berndtson
