The reconstruction of the historic Børsen building in Copenhagen is progressing following a devastating fire that reduced large portions of this iconic structure to ashes nearly four months ago. Efforts will focus on preserving as much of the original building materials as possible, including bricks and sandstone sculptures, which have been meticulously restored by the company Norrecco, based in Amager, a district in Copenhagen.

Brian Mikkelsen, the Chief Executive Officer of Dansk Erhverv (Danish Business Authority), which owns Børsen, has expressed admiration for the extensive recycling work being undertaken. “We expect to reuse 40 percent of all bricks and all the sandstone figures from the original building,” he stated. Mikkelsen is impressed by how much can be salvaged despite the widespread destruction caused by the fire.

The safety of the historical materials has been a priority during the recovery operation. Many of the essential components were quickly transported to Norrecco for restoration, which will allow for their integration into the reconstruction. Mikkelsen recently visited the company and the architects responsible for the recovery work, assuring that the reconstruction will be carried out with great respect for the original architecture, which dates back to the reign of King Christian IV of Denmark.

“We are rebuilding with respect for Christian IV’s vision for the building by using as many of the original materials as possible and preserving the facade in its original style,” Mikkelsen emphasized. While there is a strong focus on maintaining the historical appearance, Børsen will also receive a contemporary touch befitting 2024, including a special time capsule that will be placed under the floorboards as a nod to the future.

The time capsule will be fireproof and kept as a reminder for future generations about the history and reconstruction of Børsen. Although it had been hoped that a similar message from Christian IV would be discovered during the cleanup after the fire, unfortunately, none was found.

The fire, which broke out on April 16 during extensive renovation, remains under investigation regarding its cause. It resulted in more than half of Børsen being destroyed, including the famous dragon spire at the top. In addition to fire damage, there was also significant smoke and water damage. If all goes according to plan, King Frederik will lay the first stone of the foundation on September 26, 2024, and the reconstruction is expected to be a tribute to both the past and the future.