BOGL: In 2024 the City of Odense realized a temporary urban space project that offers unexpected, sensory, and artistic experiences designed to appeal across age groups. The aim of the project is to encourage both residents and visitors to explore the downtown area and, in doing so, contribute to creating a more attractive and vibrant neighborhood.
Play, discovery, and surprise are among the key themes in the design of the public spaces, which, unlike typical commercialized shopping streets across the country, are not driven by commercial interests. Here, everyone is welcome—residents, restaurants, shops, and the broader city alike are invited to take part and benefit from the project.
The concept is based on a strong visual approach adding both small and large experiences to the city center. A “ceiling” of pennants and more greenery in the form of smaller trees bind together the entire street. Greenery is complemented by a series of small and large enchanted spaces or pocket gardens with unique identities and names such as The Maze, The Bubbles, and The Flower Garden. Each of these invite different forms of interaction—from play and relaxation to reflection—and allow for curiosity to unfold.
Where possible, the pocket gardens are built using recycled materials, many of which are sourced from the municipality’s material depot. For example, the powder-coated plant and waste bins used as metal structures in The Maze. The materials from the municipal depot are on loan and will be dismantled and returned at the end of the project period. In return, they contribute to reducing both project costs and overall resource consumption.
The temporary transformation of Kongensgade was inaugurated at the end of June, 2024, and will run until July 1, 2025, at which point the project’s results and impacts will be evaluated. The project was developed in collaboration with the City of Odense and based on close dialogue with local citizens and stakeholders.
Landscape Architecture: BOGL
Project location: Kongensgade, DK-5000 Odense
Design year: 2024
Year Built: 2024
Team: Malmos Landskaber (contractor)
Photographer: Kirstine Autzen, Mikkel Eye
