In the heart of Nørrebro, tucked behind Nørrebrogade and Blågårdsgade, lies the courtyard known as “Københavnerkarréen,” a green oasis for the surrounding residents. During Open House, you can step inside this courtyard, which combines an urban character with wilder areas of tall grass and herbs.

It’s easy to forget just how many beautiful, spacious courtyards are hidden throughout Copenhagen—even in some of the city’s most densely built neighbourhoods. Københavnerkarréen is one of these, offering a quiet refuge once you step through the gateway from the busy Nørrebrogade.

Connection to other courtyards

The courtyard was designed by landscape architect Lone Van Deurs and were renovated by the City of Copenhagen in the late 1980s.

You might wonder why the municipality would fund renovations for private courtyards. The reason is that courtyards contribute to making Copenhagen a desirable place to live—and for many residents, they are the most important access to nature in their daily lives.

A maze of little corners

The central area of the courtyard is open, with an urban feel created by coloured, soft asphalt, trampolines, and small hills. The many recesses in the buildings form cosy little corners, each given a personal touch with tables, chairs, parasols, planter boxes, insect hotels, birdhouses, and pots. The courtyard also features tall trees, shrubs, and impressive climbing plants that cover parts of the façades. There’s room here for both neatly trimmed hedges and wilder sections with tall grass and herbs.

During Open House, you’ll be reminded that behind the city’s hard brick walls lie flowers and fruit trees. Normally, they’re seen only by those who live here—but during Open House, you’re invited inside.