The steel structure for the new greenhouse in the Botanical Gardens in Aarhus now form a new privileged profile on the city skyline and Monday, September 5 was held topping-out ceremony. Support from Realdania and Aarhus municipality has made it possible for Aarhus University to build a new greenhouse, renovate the unique old houses and create a new communication center in one of the city's most beautiful places. University and Property Agency is responsible for the execution of the project. The new communication center must interact with the park create a botanical experience with the possibility for activity and recreation for all visitors to the Botanical Gardens.

The topping-out ceremony is celebrated artisans and contractors' efforts to complete the characterful building, which like the old houses designed by the architect firm CF Møller. The existing greenhouses built in 1969 is located at the eastern end of the park along a ridge and on grades so away from the buildings on both sides. The new house is located west of the old houses and follow the slope down towards the Old City. The new greenhouse will be built in steel profiles in a complex asymmetrical shape that leans slightly to the north. The shape gives a good light in the dark periods of the year and adapted to the landscape conditions in the garden. Steel profiles in the fall will be covered with a light mist of a transparent plastic material (ETFE) having good optical and insulating properties. In design there is a strong emphasis on aesthetics and function, and when the house is completed later this year, the tropical plants have optimal conditions and Botanical Gardens, a new prominent landmark. While the new greenhouse will be built renovate the old houses, there are new plumbing and electrical installations in the houses and woodwork and the supporting structures being renovated and refreshed with new paint. The existing tropical house converted into an interpretation center with exhibits, classrooms and public facilities such as cafe and lounge. Greenhouses have been an oasis in the heart of Aarhus and rejoice with over 4,000 different plant species: plants from areas with a Mediterranean climate, subtropical and tropical deserts, tropical mountain forests, tropical monsoon climate and tropical rainforest. As before, there will be free access to the public once the renovations and new construction is completed in late 2012.

Open house

It held an open house for all interested parties on Sunday 11/9 at 12:00 to 16:00. Input from Peter Holmsvej and Poplar Square. Source: AU