In connection with the renovation of an existing building in one of Aarhus’s charming old courtyards, the courtyard has been upgraded with new urban furniture, pavements, and bicycle parking. To create a cohesive space and inviting meeting point, custom urban furniture has been designed to encourage group gatherings and provide a space for those who wish to enjoy some sun or fresh air during the day.

The architectural elements of the city center with brick facades, granite surfaces, wall paintings, classic high-quality lighting fixtures, and cozy streets with small squares inspire us. Together, these elements create an architectural link to old Aarhus, while a modern design language has been employed to invite people to stay in groups, lounging and sitting on various levels. Since the project was carried out for BUPL – Danish Child and Youth Association, the design language is playful and invites alternative ways of meeting. Like an inviting, urban bubble. Inspired by their values and logo, it conveys a sense of space for creativity and bubbling ideas.

Parking areas and recreational zones are paved with natural stone, and the landscaping incorporates evergreen plants that flower at different times of the year, are easy to maintain, and include smaller trees that thrive on a rooftop. The plants thrive in the plant beds thanks to a special soil mixture that includes crushed recycled bricks. Additionally, the plant beds extend beneath the paving to provide a larger root volume and improved drainage.

The deep plant beds are insulated when placed under the paving, which protects the plants from drying out in the summer and frost damage in the winter, thereby extending their lifespan.

The bicycle mosquito, kindly borrowed from the esteemed Danish artist Flemming Quist Møller, has been lightly reinterpreted to serve as signage for the new covered bicycle parking, drawing bikes away from BUPL’s main entrance. The entrance now invites guests and staff through a curved, green, and welcoming recreational area.

We made some graphic tests for the biking signage, including biking animals.

The project is made of FSC-certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council).  Hardwood—that due to its material has a long lifespan. It patinates over time and requires minimal maintenance compared to a changing Danish climate with rain, sun, snow, and cold.

Project Data

Landscape Architecture: MBYland

Client: BUPL – Danish Child and Youth Association
Landscape Architect/Designer: Mette Bruun Yde
Project team: Gitte Hansen & Livija Viksna (graphics)
Building architect: P+P arkitekter, Rasmus Dieckmann & Jens Jacob Gjerluff Jakobsen
Engineer: COWI, Kasper Friis Riiskjær
Technical designers involved in the project: Hadsten Smede & Aalsrode Tømrerfirma A/S
Photo credits: Gitte Hansen and Jan Jul Søndergaard
Year completed: 2020
Size: 1000 sqm