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A new visionary scenario outlines a specific approach to combining ecological restoration, economic development, and local engagement within the transformation of the Copenhagen metropolitan region. The Øhjem project addresses growing land pressures as the region anticipates an additional 200,000 residents by 2045. The vision was developed by a team led by architectural firm Tredje Natur, as part of the project "Vandets veje," driven by the Danish Association of Architects and supported by the Dreyer Foundation.
The vision emphasizes a regenerative strategy for the capital's green corridors, contributing to discussions on realizing the Green Tripartite, balancing urban growth, nature conservation, and employment creation.
The project's core is Ramsødalen, south of Roskilde, where drainage systems will be decommissioned, and wetlands restored along a 25 km green-blue stretch from Roskilde Fjord to Køge Bay. This approach manages future flooding risks, enhances recreational opportunities and biodiversity, and fosters coexistence between businesses, residences, and tourism in natural settings. This strategy is exemplified in the village of Øm, which, inspired by historical traditions, establishes new frameworks for alternative housing communities, social inclusion, and integrated low-tech and high-tech food production.
• Water
The proposal restores the valley's natural hydrology by closing drainage systems, establishing wetlands, and adopting nature-based management of rainfall and flooding. Water is simultaneously viewed as a recreational resource offering added value to visitors and residents alike.
• Settlement
New inclusive communities are proposed in Øm village, blending local traditions with modern technology and circular building methods. Natural terrain elevations are strategically utilized to avoid risk zones and enhance social interaction close to nature.
• Local Resources
The strategy combines traditional regenerative agriculture with advanced technological systems such as aquaponics for efficient, carbon-neutral food production, creating employment and circular economic growth beneficial to both nature and local communities.
(The Big Picture)
I’m driven by a passion for creating environments that genuinely uplift both people and the planet. For me, good architecture isn’t just about constructing buildings or landscapes—it’s about weaving together regenerative ecosystems, circular economies, and climate-responsive solutions that build a desire for our shared future.
(Hands On)
As a co-founder, I focus on creating positive narratives and scalable strategies and work in any scale and phase of project developments. As a trusted advisor, I have great experience in leading a multitude of processes and project types. I regularly do keynotes on Third Nature's agenda of shaping change in the complexity of our man-made reality.
(Experience & Education)
With a Master of Architecture from The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, and as a member of both the Danish Association of Architects (maa) and the Association of Danish Landscape Architects (mdl), I bring a solid professional foundation and years of collaborative experience, design competences and research-based innovation to our practice.
The project follows a multi-stage action plan, beginning with comprehensive mapping of Ramsødalen's terrain, lowlands, and current contamination levels to preserve high-value natural and cultural landscapes. Subsequently, drainage systems and pumps are disabled, and streams are re-meandered to restore natural water flow. Extensive land management methods, including grazing and agroforestry, create a mosaic landscape capturing CO₂, enhancing biodiversity, and mitigating flooding. In Øm village, the plan includes green settlements and conversion of agricultural land to regenerative practices and high-tech food production. The valley will also feature recreational trails, informational points, and leisure areas, inviting residents and visitors to experience and contribute to a vibrant landscape balancing nature, living, and production.
"Øhjem" refers to Denmark's historical tradition of settling in harmony with water, nature, and terrain. For example, Øm village, situated between Lejre and Gadstrup, historically known as "Ø Hem," denoting an "island" in the landscape surrounded by wetlands and streams. Øhjem renews this heritage for the future, emphasizing living in close harmony with nature, climate, and community-focused purposes.
Project Facts:
• Area and scope: Ramsødalen covers a 25 km continuous green-blue corridor from Roskilde Fjord to Køge Bay.
• Population growth: The Copenhagen metropolitan region expects 200,000 new residents by 2045, intensifying the need for future-proof water management and settlement solutions.
• Natural hydrology: Re-establishing wetlands and closing drainage systems allow effective management of cloudbursts and protect freshwater resources.
• Food security: Combining traditional and high-tech food production methods contributes to local, sustainable food systems.
• Social inclusion: The plan includes integrated social living and employment, with 25% of residents having disabilities participating actively in community production and settlement.
Øhjem was developed by architectural firm Third Nature, Sophie Sahlqvist Landskab, Arkaia, ILC, and Artelia. The team is led by Third Nature. For further information: Flemming Rafn, Founding Partner, Third Nature, fra@thirdnaturearchitectects.com, +45 4093 4309.
See the full project here.
Press kit: https://we.tl/t-7ETdGh06WZ
Øhjem is part of the project "Vandets veje," visualizing future built environments and landscapes, exploring regulatory frameworks enabling this vision. The project is managed by the Danish Association of Architects and supported by the Dreyer Foundation.
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