Denmark is one of the leaders in the fight against climate change, pursuing ambitious targets for greenhouse gas reduction, energy transition and climate change adaptation. As part of these efforts, Copenhagen gained an innovative new urban space in 2024. Grønningen-Bispeparken is a climate park that has transformed 20,000 sq m of wasteland into a lush, biodiverse green space. The park was designed by the SLA studio with rainwater management in mind. The project was awarded the prestigious Årets Arne Architecture Prize in 2025.
Flood protection in Denmark
In 2020, the city of Copenhagen selected Danish studio SLA to transform the wasteland around the Grønningen-Bispeparken estate, which was built in the 1950s. The aim was to create a modern climate park that would protect the area from storms and floods, while enriching it socially and naturally. The formerly neglected area, devoid of attractions and diverse vegetation, has undergone a comprehensive redevelopment. One of the key solutions are the bioswales – a system of 18 terrain depressions that can capture, filter and absorb more than 3,000 m³ of rainwater. This innovative approach not only prevents flooding, but also supports the park’s ecosystem. The water paths serve a dual function – in addition to protecting against flooding, they also provide a space for residents to play and integrate.
© SLA / Mikkel Eye
Grønningen-Bispeparken – variety of spaces and functions
Grønningen-Bispeparken is not just an ordinary park, but a carefully designed space that combines the needs of nature and residents. The concept developers have distinguished five key landscape types, each with a distinct function. Bio Oasis is a wetland where the priority is to protect vegetation and wildlife. Between the Trunks offers dry biotopes, ideal for quiet relaxation and play. Common Meadows provides open spaces for sports, markets and community events. Pocket Squares, on the other hand, create intimate corners for relaxation amidst urban development. The Bunker Hills, created on the basis of former Cold War shelters, became a place for recreation in both summer and winter. An important element of the project was the collaboration with artist Kerstin Bergendal, whose project ‘Concerning A Meadow’ involved residents in the planning process. In addition, the park was enriched with wooden art installations, created by the Efterland studio, which provide a space for play and exercise.
Ecology and the fight against climate change
In the park, 149 trees of 23 species were planted and more than 4 million seeds of native plants were sown to support local flora and fauna. The designers also took care with the sustainable choice of materials – paths, urban furniture and other elements were made from recycled Copenhagen resources, minimising the carbon footprint of the investment. Following the official opening of the park on 31 August 2024, Copenhagen was hit by a severe storm just a few days later, causing flooding on many streets and highways. However, Grønningen-Bispeparken successfully contained the excess water, confirming the point of such places. The park quickly became an inspiration for other urban planning projects around the world.
The park on a daily basis and in the rain. Photo © SLA and © SLA / Marie Damsgaard
Project information
Name: Grønningen-Bispeparken
Location: Copenhagen
Area: 20 000 square metres
Commissioned by: City of Copenhagen
Architect: SLA
Engineer: Niras
Artistic design: Kerstin Bergendal and Efterland
Contractor: Ebbe Dalsgaard A/S
Opening: 31 August 2024
Read also: Places, Squares, Parks | Denmark | Copenhagen | Architecture | Greenery | whiteMAD on Instagram
The area before the redevelopment
Site after redevelopment
