Experience a newly renovated courtyard garden from in the Fuglekvarteret neighbourhood of Nordvest. Explore this lush garden that invites wild nature into the city while also incorporating smart rainwater solutions to handle the heavy cloudbursts we can expect more of in the future.

On Nattergalevej, you’ll find a great example of how a long, narrow courtyard can be filled with nature – while also integrating a built-in rainwater management system. The courtyard is the result of a collaboration between the City of Copenhagen and HOFOR, and was designed by MASU landscape architects, who also created the enchanting park at the new Hans Christian Andersen museum.

In this property, rainwater from the roof is reused both for the communal laundry and as part of the courtyard’s landscape. While the rainwater tank can hold 40 m³, the courtyard itself can hold about 288 m³!

A stream running through the courtyard

How do you make room for so much water? The courtyard features ditches and rain gardens that function as retention basins, winding like a long, meandering “park strip” through the entire space.

Instead of asphalt, clay brick paving directs water to the right places. The rain gardens are planted with grasses and herbs, and overall, nature has been brought in with 46 newly planted trees, fruit bushes, and perennials.

Secret paths and small bridges

Even the playground is made from natural materials, and the secret paths and wooden bridges over the water are a hit with both children and adults. The courtyard also features varied terrain that creates niches for relaxing. In one part of the courtyard, a large circular bench invites gatherings for festive occasions.

During Open House, you can take a walk through the courtyard – and perhaps be inspired to incorporate water into your own garden design.