Amsterdam, Venice, Christianshavn – it is not hard to see where the Sluseholmen development finds its inspiration. Water is the essential element in the new canal community now taking shape in the old industrial area in the South Habour in Copenhagen.
In the formation of the new community Arkitema Architects has developed and projected a master plan for the entire area. Arkitema also developed the shell structures and drew up the overall game rules governing the proportions, materials and colours.
These game rules provided a starting-point for the many architects who were invited to design facades. The individual houses are highly diverse in appearance, like Copenhagen vernacular architecture from around 1900. The result is lively and imaginative block housing that is unique in Danish housing construction.
Sluseholmen consists of eight housing islands, with large and small town houses standing side by side, together forming continuous blocks. Simple and powerful materials and motifs manage to unify the area and create an effective contrast to the fanciful and diverse architectural expression.
A main theme in Sluseholmen is the close contact with the water. Bridges, wharfs and stairs that dive into the water, allow you to get close to the waterline, dip your toes in the water or launch a small ship - experiences that all emphasize the quality of living that close to the water.
Another distinctive theme is the attractive urban spaces. In the narrow, intimate streets you really experience the Dutch inspiration. Also there are wide promenades, where the houses have a larger scale. Here you have the view to other areas of the harbor.
The third important theme in Sluseholmen is the green courtyards between the buildings. Here the families enjoy life in a more private setting, and there is enough space for both playing and relaxation. There is also room for a rose garden or a small private vegetable garden. The courtyards are built on top of big basement garages.
The master plan was developed in close cooperation with the Dutch urban planning architect, Sjoerd Soeters, with the owner and with the municipality of Copenhagen.