NATTERGALEVEJ CLIMATE COURTYARD
Type Commission
Role Main consultant
Client Copenhagen Municipality
Size 6,800 m2
Project start 2017
Status Completed 2022
Nattergalevej Climate Courtyard. The project represents one of three pioneer initiatives in Copenhagen Municipality, actively managing rainwater within the courtyard rather than directing it to the sewer system. It’s a step in the overall climate adaption of the city and an incentive to renew and improve the amenity value of the courtyard.
Nattergalevej Courtyard has undergone a remarkable transformation, showcasing an impressive elongated layout with old birch and ash trees. We planned to preserve these healthy trees by introducing a network of new ditches and small ponds.
The redesign ingeniously transformed the once-flat lawn, encircling the venerable trees to efficiently capture rainwater from rooftops and paved areas.
Once dominated by asphalt, the landscape now boasts an array of newly planted trees, contributing to a thoughtfully curated planting scheme. This scheme not only enhances the aesthetics but also introduces a diverse urban nature layer to the courtyard, particularly in occasionally wet spaces. The removal of old sheds has paved the way for strategically positioned depressions and small-scale hills that frame new stay pockets and serve as an inspiration for playful activities.
The introduction of a tactile and enduring brick pavement signals a departure from the worn-down asphalt, offering a durable foundation for the courtyard’s renewed purpose.
Transformative rainwater plan
Previously viewed as a challenge, rainwater has undergone a transformative shift, emerging as a valuable resource that infuses seasonal dynamism into the environment. Through the incorporation of open channels, rainwater is now redirected from downpipes, creating a meandering concrete channel that not only efficiently manages water flow but also introduces a playful and engaging element to the courtyard’s overall design.
This innovative approach to rainwater management has resulted in a significantly enhanced and more diverse courtyard. The space now offers many options for recreation, social gatherings, and relaxation. Whether hosting barbecues with friends or seeking solace amidst tall grass, the revitalized courtyard beckons residents to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of flourishing plants, vibrant birdlife, and thriving insect populations. The once dormant urban oasis has been revitalized into a dynamic, inviting space that integrates nature with recreational possibilities.
