Specialist Knowledge

Critical Infrastructure

Critical infrastructure encompasses the systems and structures essential to the functioning of our society. These may support economic or social functions, such as health, transport, energy, information, food supply, or security, and architecture plays a central role in many of these domains. When buildings that support critical functions fail to operate, the consequences extend beyond the site itself, potentially compromising public safety or interrupting access to vital resources.

Värtaverket, Stockholm, photo: Robin Hayes

Värtaverket, Stockholm, photo: Robin Hayes

Architecture that supports societal resilience

Gottlieb Paludan Architects contributes to the development of a wide range of critical infrastructure. We design for both individual clients and society at large—spanning military and defence facilities, laboratories, control rooms, power plants, fire stations, district heating and cooling stations, gas and geothermal facilities, waterworks, wastewater treatment plants, and waste-to-energy facilities, including associated workshops and administrative buildings. These facilities are often highly complex and technically demanding. This requires a strong focus on the interplay between technical systems and overall functionality. We base our projects on insight and thorough analysis, ensuring that design is shaped by a solid understanding of needs, risks and systems. Close collaboration with engineers and specialists ensures that technical requirements are fully integrated into the architectural solution—from overall concept to the smallest detail.

Long-term performance and robust solutions

Critical infrastructure must operate around the clock, year-round. This places extraordinary demands on planning, design and execution. Materials must withstand local weather conditions and require minimal maintenance, and any replacements must be possible without disrupting operations. We prioritise robust detailing, resilient building envelopes, and architectural solutions that allow for operational continuity and long-term durability.

Functional planning is key—especially during renovations or upgrades, where new and existing systems must be integrated without compromising the critical function. Our aim is to deliver buildings that perform under pressure and remain adaptable to future needs, balancing technical precision with architectural coherence.

Snekkersten Waterworks, photo: Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Snekkersten Waterworks, photo: Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Reducing risk in complex processes

Our work ranges from risk assessments and master planning to detailed design and landscape integration. We address large-scale infrastructural challenges, such as managing terrain and climate conditions or providing security through spatial and physical barriers—even when the solution is simply ensuring safe access for a gardener in a restricted zone. With experience in phased design processes and projects with planning and delivery uncertainties, we deliver decision support and interim analyses that reduce risks and ensure project momentum. We produce solid documentation, even when information is incomplete, allowing projects to move forward based on partial studies and strategic overviews

Do you want to know more about Critical Infrastructure?

Thomas Bonde-Hansen

Creative DirectorArchitect MAA
tbh@gottliebpaludan.com+45 4171 8297

Selected projects

We transform our specialist knowledge into practical solutions. Here is a selection of projects that illustrate our approach and experience within the field.

Se alle projekter indenfor Kritisk infrastruktur