Hedeskov Center for Regenerative Practice is a former rural school in Djursland, Denmark, transformed in collaboration with architecture studio Djernes & Bell into a forward-thinking hub for sustainable innovation, research, and knowledge-sharing.
Restoration — Denmark
Architect: Djernes & Bell
Photographer: Monica Grue Steffensen
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Pine Classic
Thickness 35mm. / US 1.38"
Width 250mm. / US 9.84"
Length 8 m. / US 26' 3"
Lye and White Soap
Integrating local materials, traditional craftsmanship, and ecological methods, Hedeskov is dedicated to advancing regenerative practices through research, collaboration, and practical implementation. Their focus lies in creating projects that not only sustain but actively regenerate natural systems, giving back more than they take.
The project emphasises low-carbon restoration and retrofitting, illustrating the profound connection between building materials and ecosystems.
Existing wooden floors in the building were removed as part of the installation of underfloor heating, and replaced with Dinesen pine flooring. The original boards were too thin to function optimally with underfloor heating, so they were repurposed elsewhere in the building, where they are now used as wall cladding and in custom-built storage solutions for wardrobes, restrooms, and kitchen.
Indoor climate was an important parameter in the project, and wood was chosen in part because it helps regulate humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture, creating a more stable and comfortable environment in the building.
During the renovation, both technical and anthropological insights were gathered to deepen the understanding of regenerative construction. This knowledge is shared through accessible guidelines, enabling others to integrate these principles into their own projects.
The renovation serves as a dynamic living laboratory, collecting data to guide and shape future regenerative building methods. This approach harmonises durability, functionality, and aesthetics, creating spaces that are both environmentally responsible and deeply enriching for the people who inhabit them.
Hedeskov’s philosophy is rooted in long-term thinking, ensuring that the value created today resonates with future generations. By prioritising designs that honour the human experience—focusing on beauty, comfort, and harmony with nature—Hedeskov sets a compelling example of how architecture and design can actively contribute to a regenerative future.