the testing grounds

Living in Copenhagen, it’s clear that a lot of thought and consideration has been put into the form our city takes, from the intuitive and practical bike lanes, to the creative and inspiring playgrounds hidden around every corner. It seems that Copenhagen’s urban planners have long understood the principle relationship between form and function. The urban environment we interact with on a daily basis shapes our habits and actions, while providing the space for coming up with new ideas. In turn, these new ideas shape the unique and dynamic community that keeps the city so exciting. It’s a bit like the old saying, “If you build it, they will come.” And they will come with some pretty cool ideas!

If I had to name one thing I absolutely love about Copenhagen, it would have to be the public spaces. (Nope, it’s not the food. Sorry, Denmark.) Back home in California, public spaces are parks, beaches, and shopping malls. Definitely not something to complain about, but these are spaces you wouldn't see and use every day without the plan and intention of going out to use them. What I love about Copenhagen’s public spaces is how effortless and well integrated they are. Whether it’s on your way to work or school, while grabbing a quick coffee, or even on a lazy weekend day, you never have to go far to feel the pulse of the city and see the liveliness of the local community. Now that the summer is around the corner, here are a couple of my favorite outdoor spots out there in the great, big world of Copenhagen:

  The big matchsticks across from Enghave Plads

What are these things? Are they benches? An art installation? Or a playground for kids? All of the above! Imagination is the key here. Situated on a little corner across the street from Enghave Park, these giant matchsticks are a perfect example of the many little ways the city can help you “spark” a few good ideas of your own.

The Harbor Bath at Islands Brygge

Did you know that today the water in Copenhagen Harbor is so clean you can swim in it? Check out the little ladders lining the canals and piers next time you’re out by the water and consider a refreshing swim. Copenhagen has always been a harbor town, so it’s only natural that water serves as a unifying force for Copenhageners, regardless of the weather. In the winter, there is a sauna co-op which operates two mobile saunas by the Harbor Bath at Islands Brygge. The Harbor Bath even hosted a Eurovision viewing party this year, while the song contest was being hosted at the nearby Refshaleøen. In the summer, you can enjoy an ice cream cone while taking a walk along the urban beach and admiring the modern, minimalistic architecture of the area.

The Green Cycling Path

Copenhagen is a cycling city, meaning that for many of the city’s residents, cycling is a way of life, practiced by the young and old alike. In fact, it’s more common to see people dressed smartly, cycling about their daily plans, than it is to see the rare cycling fitness enthusiast clad in sporty spandex. Where else would you find a street style blog centered on well dressed people on bikes?

The abundance and intuitiveness of cycling infrastructure obviously makes this cycling culture all possible, and is also one of the main reasons Copenhagen was named European Green Capital. In the city’s carbon neutrality strategy, there are plans to expand cycling infrastructure even more, and to develop cycling “highways” for more efficient transport. The Green Cycling Path is just one example of how public spaces are centered around cycling infrastructure. Along the Path, you can find anything from skate parks, playgrounds, and basketball courts, to quieter spots to enjoy a picnic or some sunshine.

Fælledparken

With a name literally meaning the Common Park, there’s no doubt Fælledparken is the ultimate shared public space. In the spring and summer seasons, it’s inevitable you will end up here at some point, for a barbecue, a run, a football match, or just to check out the playground with some of the highest swings I’ve ever seen!

Queen Louise's Bridge

Commonly referred to in explanations of hipster culture, Dronning Louises Bro is the majestic bridge that leads onto Nørrebrogade, one of the trendier districts in Copenhagen. The bridge features extremely wide sidewalks with benches, where you’ll find what seems like the whole town relaxing in the sun by the water. The bridge is occasionally even shut down entirely to host street parties.

Amager Resource Center (in 2017...)

This is an unusual one. This one actually doesn’t exist yet, but will by the end of 2017. 

Have you ever wondered where your trash goes when you throw it out? If you live in the Municipality of Copenhagen, chances are your waste is transported to an incineration plant, where it is burned to generate electricity and district heating that can then be used in your home. How’s that for efficiency? Amager Resource Center is one such incineration plant, which not only turns your waste into a resource, but is also on a mission to educate people about waste management and recycling practices. The new plant to be completed in 2017 will have an increased capacity, and will also feature a manmade ski slope on the roof, giving residents a more nearby place to practice their favorite winter sports. Utilizing the roof of the plant as a recreational space is an ingenious way to bring the community out to what is usually considered an industrial area, far outside the city. It’s also a win-win solution, creating value for the community, and educating people at the same time. Smart plan, with that characteristic Copenhagen design charm.

So with that, I hope you have the chance to take advantage of the city and its vibrancy. Go people-watching, or join in on the fun, and... let the summer begin!