During Open House, you can experience a fully renovated courtyard by Henning Larsen Architects. Here, it’s not just the courtyard that is climate-friendly – the surrounding buildings are too. An innovative new façade provides both extra space and a boost to the heating efficiency.
Outer Østerbro has become a testing ground for sustainable urban renewal. Here you’ll find, among other things, an exciting new example of how to create a climate-friendly courtyard renovation.

Wooden terraces in the heart of greenery

In the courtyard of the Climate Block, rainwater from roofs and paved surfaces is reused – partly for toilets and laundry facilities in the apartments, and partly as a calming design element in the courtyard. The water flows through the space in a reflecting pool of varying widths. In the event of cloudbursts, the water is directed to an underground tunnel that ensures it eventually flows into the harbour.
The courtyard also features a charming old rear building with direct access to a raised terrace. A green belt of grass and plants winds through the space, surrounding a series of wooden decks where you can sit amidst the lush greenery.

A new façade outside the old

It’s not only the courtyard that has been upgraded. The buildings have been fitted with an extra façade on top of the old one, improving insulation without taking up interior space. In fact, it adds space through a series of narrow balconies. This additional layer also houses various pipes for electricity, rainwater, and new ventilation. The exterior is clad in wood, tiles, and façade panels, with flowers and plants climbing upwards.
Copenhagen’s courtyards cover roughly 6 million square metres – an area equivalent to 12 times the size of Fælledparken! During Open House, you can explore some of the city’s remarkable courtyards, normally reserved for those who live there.

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