THE ROYAL LIBRARY

THE ROYAL LIBRARY, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Daily, thousands of cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians traverse the iconic passage that connects the original Royal Library with its extension, known as the Black Diamond. Designed by the architectural firm Schmidt Hammer Lassen from Aarhus, the Black Diamond stands as a monumental contrast to the older structure, featuring striking black granite and glass that reflect the harbor front and the sky.

The passage beneath the arch serves not only as a corridor between the original Royal Library and the Black Diamond but also as a work of art in its own right. The ceiling is adorned with a piece by Per Kirkeby, illuminated by an impressive ring chandelier with a diameter of 10 meters. The silver-gray, powder-coated aluminum ring chandelier is equipped with both upward and downward-facing LEDs, softly diffused through opal acrylic, creating an almost ethereal glow. The project was realized with support from the Ministry of Culture and the Royal Library, achieving a harmonious blend of classical architecture and modern cultural heritage.

The Black Diamond houses a variety of facilities, including concert and conference halls, as well as a restaurant.