Aarhus Custom House, 19th-century administrative building at Aarhus Harbor, Denmark
Aarhus Custom House is a red brick structure featuring a central square tower with two lower polygonal towers, distinguished by precise diagonal brickwork patterns across its exterior walls. The building sits directly on the waterfront and now operates as a publicly accessible restaurant.
The building was completed in 1898 by architect Hack Kampmann as the fourth customs facility in Aarhus, built to accommodate increasing trade activity. Its construction marked a turning point in the city's harbor development during Aarhus' expansion in the late 19th century.
Maritime-themed artwork by Karl Hansen Reistrup covers the interior walls, featuring sea creatures and naval symbols that reflect the building's connection to harbor life.
The building sits directly on the waterfront next to the light rail system, making it easy to reach on foot. Operating as a restaurant, it welcomes visitors during service hours and provides direct access to the harbor area.
The building incorporates design elements inspired by the French Château de Chaumont, based on pencil sketches Kampmann created during his 1882 study trip. This influence is particularly visible in the two polygonal towers of the structure.
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