BOGL: In 2013, a great storm destroyed the original coastal path stretching from the village, Taarbæk, to former paper factory, Strandmøllen, north of Copenhagen. As a result, BOGL developed a phased masterplan for the area on behalf of the Danish Nature Agency and established a new coastal path designed to withstand future climate impacts.
The vision behind the coastal path project was to create a beautiful pathway with places to rest and to provide access to the water and protect the coastline. Based on two main design strategies – the path and the interventions – the concept draws from the site’s history, making the area more accessible while creating small spaces and experiences along the route.
The entire Springforbi natural area consists of an elevated park at the level of the main road and the lower-lying coastal path along the shoreline, all of which is protected under conservation laws. Nevertheless, the masterplan represents a significant upgrade of the area, reconnecting forest, beach and coastline and transforming it into an active nature destination for the people of the capital.
The masterplan elevates the site with an ambitious vision to provide an active nature destination for the Greater Copenhagen population. It includes picnic areas, nature playgrounds, fishing piers, running trails, kayak docks, a diving platform, sports fields, swimming facilities, a performance space, and information signs highlighting the site’s history. All together the programming offers a variety of themed areas that appeal to different aspects of leisure life—quiet reflection, active recreation, group activities, family outings, and cross-cultural experiences.
The masterplan was developed through close dialogue with the Danish Nature Agency, residents, and other stakeholders. It reflects a shared vision for the renewal of a unique cultural and natural landscape with great potential to become a contemporary site offering innovative solutions for coastal protection and recreational use while respecting the area’s remarkable location and historical significance.
The first phase of the masterplan—which included coastal protection measures, the establishment of a new coastal path, a water staircase, trails through the park, and access routes to the shoreline—was realized in 2016. This project emphasizes the use of simple, robust materials such as concrete and granite, which age gracefully and ensure the path’s resilience against weather and wear.
Landscape Architecture: BOGL
Other designers involved in the design of landscape: Absolut Landskab
Project location: Taarbæk, DK-2930 Klampenborg
Design year: 2014
Year Built: 2016
Team: Jørn Jensen (engineer)
Photographer: Mikkel Eye
