New ‘Kalvebod Waves’ Waterfront Park Makes a Splash in Copenhagen!

<a href="http://www.dac.dk/en/dac-life/copenhagen-x-gallery/realized-projects/kalvebod-boelge/">Kalvebod Waves</a> is a vibrant new waterfront park designed by <a href="http://jdsa.eu/kal/">JDS Architects</a> and <a href="http://www.klar-arkitekter.dk/">KLAR Arkitekter</a> that just opened near Copenhagen's harbor this past Friday. The curving promenade, brightly colored accents, and multitude of activities have visitors and residents very excited. (A <a href="http://inhabitat.com/hottug-a-floating-hot-tub-and-an-electric-motor-boat-all-in-one/">floating hot tub</a> was even on site for the opening!) Not only is this a great new recreation destination, but it is also a much-needed addition to the existing urban fabric that will bring new life to the area. Inhabitat was on the scene in Copenhagen for the opening of this new park - check out our photos after the break!

<a href="http://jdsa.eu/kal/">JDS Architects</a> and <a href="http://www.klar-arkitekter.dk/">KLAR Arkitekter</a> wanted the project to have a strong connection to its surrounding context, and they sought to avoid the shadows cast by the buildings on shore that created a bleak space at the water's edge.

The architects discuss the need to address the ominous facades of the facing buildings, "We put our focus on two major design aspects: to create urban continuity and to locate ourselves on the sunny spots of the water."

The concept was derived from sun patterns: "We studied the course of those shadows throughout the day and the year and located two main pockets of shadow-free zones."

From the shadow-free zones the architects then needed "to find an active way to reconnect those islands to the urban network and to make them relate to the city’s infrastructure."

The park is a sort of floating, dock-like cousin to Islands Brygge, an established summertime hangout that sits across the river.

The project team sees great potential for Kalvebod Waves.

Kalvebod Waves is located in close proximity to some of Copenhagen's important hubs, and it is hoped that the park will help reconnect residents with the waterfront.

The city has cleaned up the river enough to make it safe for swimming!

Copenhagen has been very focused lately on green design developments, carbon neutrality, and climate adaptation.

The official opening of the park brought lots of patrons...even a synthetic pirate ship!

Initial reactions have been very positive.

This project is sure to help Copenhagen in its quest for a more livable city.

Aerial view of Kalvebod Waves Park across from Islands Brygge Park.