david altrath captures sweeping curves and verdant oasis of COBE’s opera park, copenhagen

opera park: a verdant retreat IN urban copenhagen

David Altrath casts his lens on COBE’s Opera Park (Operaparken) — a tranquil, verdant retreat from the bustle of urban life in Copenhagen. The Hamburg-based photographer captures the sweeping curves, expansive green oasis, and quiet pockets of this harbor-front public space which provides spaces for recreation, relaxation, and contemplation in nature

The regeneration project draws from the historical gardens of European capitals, weaving pathways and scenic viewpoints through six thematic gardens, each reflecting various ecosystems and cultures, and hosting a rich ensemble of biodiversity.

david altrath captures meandering paths and sprouting foliage

The six gardens dividing the Opera Park and their organic landscapes and winding forms become the focus for the German photographer. David Altrath captures each section that is symbolic for a different corner of the world: the North American Forest, the Danish Oak Forest, the Nordic Forest, the Oriental Garden, and the English Garden. The Subtropical Garden sits at the site’s core, housed within a curving greenhouse spanning 680 square meters, embraced by floor-to-ceiling glass walls and topped with a sweeping roof.

With an atrium at its core, the mixed-use pavilion opens downwards into the two underground levels of the parking garage, bringing the engulfing greenery of the park indoors. A vast staircase winds amid the lush subtropical planting, looking out onto the cars parked in the garage. Additionally, the ground floor houses a tastefully designed restaurant area.

‘The Opera Park is a place where nature comes first amidst Copenhagen’s bustling urban development,’ shares COBE founder Dan Stubbergaard. ‘With its six gardens, winding paths, and carefully crafted viewpoints, the project seizes elements of Copenhagen’s historical, romantic gardens to tackle today’s challenges such as decline in biodiversity and water management.’

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project info:

name: The Opera Park 

photographer: David Altrath | @davidaltrath

architect: COBE | @cobearchitects

location: Copenhagen, Denmark