The Nordhavn City District in Copenhagen

Historically, Nordhavn played a key role in Copenhagen’s harbour industry. The city district was originally developed in the late 1800's to support the city’s industrial trade.

The area has since shifted focus. Since 2005, it has gradually evolved into a residential area district characterized by its many gastronomic experiences, contemporary architecture and urban planning. 

Architectural firms such as BIG, COBE, Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects and Lendager Group have offices in the area and contribute to its development with projects that rethink the adaptation of industrial buildings into modern homes and workspaces.

Designed as a “5-minute city”, Nordhavn offers residents access to daily necessities within short walking or biking distances. The district is well connected by metro, S-train, bus and yellow harbour buses, supporting a lifestyle with reduced reliance on cars.

• Scandinavia’s largest urban development project, run by COBE Architects together with Polyform and SLETH.
• 40% of Nordhavn’s residents are between 20 and 39 years old, making it one of Copenhagen’s youngest districts.
• The population grew almost seven times from 500 (2016) to 3,500 (2022).
• Future plans aim for public housing to make up nearly 10% of the total residential floor area.
• Around 9,000 jobs are located in Nordhavn, with 3,400 in Århusgadekvarteret and Sundmolen alone.
• Designed as a “5-minute city”, where everything, from schools and play areas to businesses and recreational spaces, is accessible within five minutes walking or biking distance.
• Built on 11 artificial islands with canals, promenades and direct access to the sea.
• Home to renowned architecture firms like BIG, COBE, Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects and Lendager Group, who integrate circular design and reused materials.