The Urban Plan

Once characterized by uniformity and introversion, Urbanplanen is transforming into a diverse and outward-looking neighborhood. The vision is to harness the area's existing potential by integrating sustainable design, community-oriented spaces, and vibrant public areas that foster a strong sense of belonging. Central to this ongoing transformation is our new youth facility in Copenhagen—the first in a series of buildings and transformations, also including the library transformation and another institution, all designed specifically to enhance social interactions and create a thriving community atmosphere.

The youth facility embodies this vision through its robust architecture that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings, providing children with an engaging and calming environment. Large windows and natural textures, including ornamented wooden panels and terrazzo stairways, enhance well-being, foster community engagement, and demonstrate our commitment to immersive and restorative architectural experiences.

Urbanplanen’s renewal emphasizes nature as a fundamental aspect of daily life. The introduction of Regnbåndet, a series of water basins and ponds, enriches biodiversity while sustainably managing rainwater. Edible plants and interconnected green corridors encourage community interaction, making nature integral to the urban experience rather than merely decorative.

The youth facility further exemplifies this integration, featuring design elements that promote 'soft fascination'—spaces that gently engage and rejuvenate the mind through visual and sensory connections with the surrounding landscape. The careful selection of materials such as fibrous acoustic panels, linoleum floors, and expressive brickwork enhances both the building’s aesthetic and sensory experience, underscoring our belief in architecture as a means to support mental well-being.

The transformation of Urbanplanen reflects a holistic approach, seamlessly moving from detailed design choices to large-scale urban development. Third Nature has served as the lead advisor within a dedicated team, guiding the overall development of the Urbanplanen area—from master planning and architectural expressions to urban infrastructure and climate-adaptation solutions.

This comprehensive strategy introduces a variety of public spaces, highlighted by the completed youth facility and library, demonstrating attention to both architectural detail and broader urban impact. These projects, together with future playgrounds, mixed housing, retail spaces, and urban infrastructure, collectively advance our vision of Urbanplanen as a resilient, inclusive, and dynamic neighborhood prioritizing people, community, and sustainability.