Engelsborg Halfway House Family Unit
Facts
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Lead Consultant
Architect
Construction Management
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The Danish Prison and Probation Service
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Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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350 m²
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Completed in 2019-2023
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Viborg Ingeniørerne
Engelsborg Halfway House - New family unit
The new family unit at Engelsborg Halfway House was designed to accommodate up to five inmates and their families during the final months of their sentences. This addition complements the existing facility, which includes 22 single rooms. As an open prison, Engelsborg Halfway House serves as a transitional space between incarceration and reintegration into community life. The family unit encourages a shared living experience, with communal kitchen and outdoor facilities that foster connection and support resocialization.
The project began with the demolition of a previous building rendered unsalvageable due to mold infestation, paving the way for a sustainable and innovative replacement. Constructed in wood, the new building emphasizes sustainability, indoor climate considerations, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Non-institutional design
The family unit has been intentionally designed to appear non-institutional. Resembling a small-scale family home, its architecture promotes a sense of normalcy, helping families adjust to life post-incarceration. This design approach fosters a smoother transition back into everyday life and supports the emotional well-being of both inmates and their families.
A community-oriented living space
Drawing inspiration from collegiate architecture, the family unit combines private and shared spaces. Each family has private bedrooms and bathroom facilities, while living rooms and kitchens are shared among residents. This communal setup encourages meaningful interactions and resocialization, creating opportunities for families to rebuild relationships and routines.
Creating a homely atmosphere
To further support families in regaining stability, the interior design focuses on creating a homely and adaptable environment. Living units feature double beds and children’s bunk beds, with flexible configurations such as play alcoves, baby cots, or additional sleeping arrangements for siblings. Each unit also includes a small private terrace, offering a personal outdoor space.
Dynamic outdoor spaces
The outdoor areas reinforce the normalization of everyday life with dynamic features such as playgrounds and movement-friendly spaces. These areas aim to make the incarceration period feel more ordinary for children, providing opportunities for play and relaxation that benefit the whole family. The outdoor environment is designed to feel welcoming, accentuating the idea of home.
Materiality and sustainability
In alignment with the goal of creating a warm, non-institutional atmosphere, natural wood surfaces have been used throughout the design. This choice, combined with a green roof, contributes to a calm and organic aesthetic. The emphasis on sustainable materials ensures the building’s environmental impact remains minimal while enhancing its homely appeal.
