Kalvebod Bølge

The overhead plan is to transform Kalvebod Brygge from a desolate office address to a teeming harbour quay with two new squares and an undulating promenade on the water.

Kalvebod Brygge is to be inner Copenhagen's counterpart to the popular and packed Islands Brygge. Stretching along the waterfront between Langebro bridge and Bernstorffsgade, Kalvebod Bølge (Kalvebod Waves) will provide a venue for water sports as well as relaxing sunbathing.

City and water merge together

The area around Kalvebod Brygge is known for its urban buzz and human activity.

Yet with the establishment of the 'Archipelago' park at the new headquarters of SEB Bank og Pension, a popular venue among skaters, the new urban space Under the Crystal with water cascades, a reflecting pool and light art at Nykredit's new headquarters building The Crystal and Kalvebod Bølge with sea view and sun-filled hours, the area is developing into a new favourite spot for days out.

Kalvebod Bølge is planned to open up the area and reconnect the city with the water, serving as a meeting place for Copenhageners and visitors alike.

A wave on the sea

Kalvebod Bølge is an extension of the waterfront at Kalvebod Brygge.

An undulating promenade rising to varying levels and jutting into the harbour will provide space for a range of water activities. The shape draws the promenade out into the sun, thereby ensuring that Kalvebod Brygge, which otherwise remains in the shade from noon onwards, will benefit from the maximum possible hours of sunshine. Along the promenade there will be a number of small recreational zones and pools for different purposes as well as a jetty for kayaks. At present it is not possible to take a dip at Kalvebod Brygge.

Maritime park and urban stage

Two main squares extending from land out on to the promenade will be oriented so as to obtain the best sun and wind conditions. The northernmost square will be laid out as an oasis for relaxation. This is where the urban park meets maritime life, and here everybody can enjoy a break for an hour or two by the water. Proposals such as a floating garden and an urban beach whizz through the air, but nothing definite has been decided yet. The south-facing square will be devoted to various creative activities, and a small stage will be available for concerts, theatre or any other kind of performance. Moreover, a jetty for harbour buses, water taxies and tour boats will be established at this end.

Part of the Metropolis Zone

Kalvebod Bølge is part of the grand development project called the Metropolis Zone. The project aims to give a facelift to the centre of Copenhagen and to ensure more coherence between the many different initiatives in the area. The Metropolis Zone stretches from Kalvebod Brygge to Skt. Jørgens Sø and from the Central Station across City Hall Square to Vester Voldgade. The area is outside the old ramparts of the city, where distinctive structures such as the Central Station, the Circus Building, Tivoli and the Glyptotek were built over the years without there being any overarching plan for the area.

The creation of better recreational spaces, better conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, a greener city and better public transport makes for city districts with a clear identity and leads to greater synergy across the entire area.

Last updated Wednesday, September 05, 2012