In a joint effort, Vertigo, the concert venue Forbrændingen, and property developer Freja Ejendomme are working together to revitalize and give new purpose to the historic Vridsløselille Statsfængsel. The prison, once an isolated facility, is set to be transformed into a vibrant public space aimed at benefiting the local community.

Vridsløselille Statsfængsel went into service in 1859 and was drawn by N.S. Nebelong. The design was influenced by the Pennsylvania model from the United States, which was a forward-thinking approach at that time, focusing on reforming inmates through isolation. A central feature of the prison’s design was the panopticon located at its core. This clever structure allowed guards to easily keep an eye on all 241 inmates. This was made possible by a design that provided clear views of the cell corridors and excellent acoustics that allowed sound to travel to the panopticon, ensuring that the guards could stay alert to what was happening inside.

The collaboration is now using the prison's distinctive architecture to create a modern concert hall. In this new design, musicians are positioned in the center of the space, surrounded by the audience. The audience can choose to watch from the ground level or from one of the two balconies that encircle the room. This setup is different from traditional concert halls as it allows the audience to be more involved in the performance. This close setting creates a stronger sense of connection and engagement with the music, making the audience feel as though they are a part of the concert experience.

With this transformation, Vridsløselille Statsfængsel begins a new phase. It serves as an example of how historic buildings can be repurposed in a modern context to serve the cultural needs of the community.