Study Programs in Copenhagen: Community, Climate Adaptation, and Transformation

We offer in-depth, guided tours led by professionals in Copenhagen for groups of 10 to 25 participants. Our programs focus on the latest development projects within community building, climate adaptation, and urban transformation. We handle all practical details, from transportation to carefully selected lunch spots around the city. Discover Copenhagen’s innovative approaches to sustainable urbanism with ArkiTours and get inspired by ideas shaping the cities of the future.

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Our programs provide the opportunity to explore Copenhagen through three specific focus areas, tailored to your particular interests:

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01. Communities

How can we design housing and co-living environments that support modern lifestyles while fostering strong communities? This program visits exciting projects such as co-housing and village-like communities where residents live closely and share everyday responsibilities. Here, concepts like co-housing, tiny living, and micro-living come to life, with designs aimed at enhancing social bonds and shared accountability.

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The program spans a variety of housing types, including senior co-housing, youth housing, and public housing projects. Flexible housing designs and material-conscious choices create strong neighborhood connections. Residents are encouraged to participate in everything from communal cooking to maintenance and energy use, promoting sustainable communities.

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Sample projects in this program include:

• Cactus Towers by Bjarke Ingels Group: Two towers with a “spiky” design inspired by cacti, standing tall over the city’s skyline. Micro-living apartments are paired with large common areas where residents can cook, socialize, and build a sense of community.

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• AlmenBolig+ by ONV and JAJA Architects: An award-winning public housing concept where residents participate in maintenance and benefit from lower rents. Shared spaces and co-housing elements make it easy for neighbors to connect and build relationships in daily life.

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Duration: 1 day, including 4–5 project and site visits.

02. Climate adaptation and green solutions

Copenhagen is a frontrunner in climate adaptation, with projects that blend urban nature and flood protection. This program provides insights into everything from stormwater management and coastal protection to holistic climate adaptation strategies. Learn how storm surge barriers, cloudburst tunnels, and multifunctional spaces protect the city from flooding while creating beautiful, recreational urban areas.

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The tour showcases how surface water and groundwater dynamics are managed through coastal defenses and stormwater parks, which also support biodiversity. Examples include green roofs and flood-secure areas that act as both water buffers and green retreats for residents.

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Sample projects in this program include:

• Kalvebod Brygge Cloudburst Tunnel by HOFOR: A major stormwater tunnel designed using a cloud-based BIM platform, capable of collecting and diverting large amounts of rainwater to prevent downtown flooding. This technical marvel is a key component of Copenhagen’s flood protection.

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• Grønningen NV – Bispeparken by Niras: A green housing area where water is naturally managed through small waterways and depressions. Residents actively contributed to the design process, ensuring the area provides flood protection while offering recreational spaces and promoting biodiversity.

Duration: 1 day, including 4–5 project and site visits.

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03. Transformation and renovation

This program offers deep insights into how Copenhagen transforms and repurposes existing buildings for new, sustainable uses. From renovating public housing to converting 1960s warehouses into mixed-use areas with homes, institutions, and businesses, these projects utilize sustainable building materials and energy optimization to create modern, functional spaces while preserving architectural heritage.

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Participants will meet professionals, from engineers to developers, and learn about reverse design processes, where all materials are assessed for reuse and sustainable energy solutions. Solar panels and resource-saving innovations play a central role in uniting the past and future under one roof.

Sample projects in this program include:

• Nørrebro Library by Keingart: A transformation of an old tram depot into a multifunctional cultural center and library. The original building structure has been preserved while modern library facilities and sports areas make the space relevant for all age groups.

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• Prags Boulevard by Henning Larsen: Renovation of a 1960s residential complex, including new green installations that breathe fresh life into the area. Solar panels and green facades add a sustainable touch, while the raw industrial charm of the area remains intact.

Duration: 1 day, including 4–5 project and site visits.

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Danish Projects in World-Class League: MIPIM 2025 Awards

The MIPIM Awards are often referred to as the real estate industry’s equivalent of the Oscars. This year, an impressive four Danish projects have received nominations - an outstanding international recognition of Danish architecture and sustainable development. Additionally, the Danish architecture firm WERK is behind a nominated project in Hamburg, bringing the Danish presence close to five among the 25 selected projects worldwide.

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• Operaparken, Copenhagen – Centrally located in Copenhagen, this project, designed by Cobe, demonstrates how urban nature and architecture can merge seamlessly. Developed by The Opera Park Foundation with a donation from the A.P. Møller Foundation.

• Håndværkskollegiet, Horsens – An innovative student housing project dedicated to craftsmanship professions. Designed by Cubo Arkitekter & DANØ Arkitekter and developed by BRFfonden and the Foundation for Craftsmanship Colleges.

• UN17 Village, Copenhagen – A pioneering sustainable housing project integrating all 17 of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in its design and development. Designed by Sweco Architects and Lendager, developed by Urban Partners' real estate branch, Nrep.

• TRÆ, Aarhus – A groundbreaking timber construction that highlights the material’s potential in future architecture. Architects: Lendager. Developers: PFA Ejendomme, Kilden & Hindby.

• The Beehive, Hamburg – A dynamic living and working environment designed by the Danish architecture firm WERK in collaboration with Baugemeinschaft Halbinsulaner. A prime example of how Danish architecture is making its mark on the international stage.

This recognition highlights Denmark’s strong position in architecture and sustainable construction—along with the business value that comes with international visibility.

Sounds interesting? Contact us, and let us know how we can help you.