The South Harbor of Køge: A Nature-Based Urban Transformation by SLA

The South Harbor of Køge, designed by SLA Architects, represents a remarkable transformation of a former industrial port into a vibrant, resilient, and sustainable neighborhood. Once a barrier separating the city from its coastline, the harbor area is now reimagined as a community-centered urban space that celebrates nature, public life, and climate resilience.

A Vision Realized: From Industrial Harbor to Coastal Neighborhood

The transformation of Køge’s South Harbor has been over a decade in the making. In 2010, SLA contributed to the winning development plan for Køge Kyst, encompassing the former industrial port and railway areas. The masterplan aimed to create a socially active, ecologically sustainable district that strengthens Køge’s role within the Copenhagen Metropolitan Area and the Øresund region. The result is a dynamic coastal neighborhood designed for both people and nature.

Lush Commons: Green Spaces for Community and Climate Adaptation

At the heart of the South Harbor lies a network of semi-public commons that serve as green refuges for residents. These commons are multifunctional, offering picnic areas, fitness zones, hammocks, and playful landscaping. During rainfall, a winding waterway forms naturally through the commons, managing stormwater and enhancing biodiversity. The slightly raised design ensures rainwater either drains into the harbor or flows toward the nearby salt meadow, equipping the neighborhood to handle extreme climate events projected for 2100, equivalent to a modern 500-year cloudburst.

Nature-Centric Design and Biodiversity

The South Harbor emphasizes nature integration, creating immersive sensory experiences while supporting high biodiversity. Plantings along the promenade are inspired by coastal salt meadows, resilient to sun, wind, and salt spray, while commons feature species found along Denmark’s east-facing forest edges. A thoughtful mix of trees, shrubs, and low grasses forms varied pathways, offering seasonal experiences and habitats for wildlife. Robust, long-lived plant species reduce maintenance needs while maintaining ecological and aesthetic richness.

The Promenade: Connector, Protector, and Recreational Space

A 1.4 km elevated promenade encircles the South Harbor, linking residents to the harbor, salt meadow, and beach. Beyond its recreational function, the promenade doubles as a tidal dike, providing protection against potential storm surges. The south-facing edges include stairs and leisure areas, connecting visitors to the wider coastal landscape and offering unobstructed views of Køge Bay. Future extensions will connect the promenade directly to the city’s harborfront, allowing people to experience the site’s industrial history alongside nature and waterfront amenities.

Resilient, Sustainable, and Community-Focused Urbanism

SLA’s landscape architecture in the South Harbor of Køge exemplifies climate-responsive, nature-based urban design. By combining sustainable stormwater management, biodiverse green spaces, and multifunctional public areas, the project showcases how cities can adapt to rising waters while fostering community engagement and enhancing urban life. The South Harbor is not just a neighborhood: it is a living example of the harmonious integration of nature, urbanity, and resilience.

All photographs are works of  Mikkel Eye