The historic buildings and surrounding gardens at Bispebjerg Hospital in the northern part of Copenhagen is an early example of healing architecture. Built in 1913 and listed by the Danish authorities in 2010, the hospital is a unique place unlike no other. The gardens provide a calm oasis for patients, relatives, employees and visitors - a soothing setting very different from what a hospital traditionally allows.
The Healing Gardens are newly renovated with a generous donation from The A. P. Møller Foundation.
We invite the participants in the UIA World Congress of Architects and others with an interest in history, architecture, and green urban spaces, to explore the beautifully redesigned gardens that incorporate principles of sustainability, inclusion, and accessibility on many levels.
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The Healing Gardens at Bispebjerg Hospital are newly renovated and made more accessible for patients and visitors.
Prize-winning make-over
The Healing Gardens were originally conceived by the renowned Danish garden architect Edward Glæsel. Contemporary landscape architects Erik Brandt Dam and Charlotte Skibsted were given the task to do a gentle modern makeover of the historic gardens. Both architects will be present to talk about the process and thoughts about the renovation.
On the tour, you will learn about the hospital's efforts to create green spaces that promote health and well-being for patients, visitors, and staff. You will also see how the gardens are designed to support biodiversity and accessibility for all – including patients with disabilities. The Healing Gardens have been awarded several prizes - among others, Berlingske's 'Best urban space in Copenhagen 2022'.
Garden for the socially vulnerable
As part of our guided tour, we will also be visiting the Social Flower Garden run by the Danish NGO WeShelter. This garden is a unique example of how sustainable gardening practices can have a positive impact on local communities.
The flower garden is run by volunteers who provide support and training for individuals who are socially vulnerable – such as homeless people. The garden is designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for these individuals to learn new skills and develop a sense of community.
WeShelter also collaborates with the hospital kitchen to reuse organic waste and deliver fresh green herbs to the patient meals. This collaboration not only reduces food waste but also provides patients with healthy and nutritious 100 percent organic meals.
The Social Flower Garden provides support and training for socially vulnerable citizens.
Sign up here
The tour is free of charge but there is a limited number of participants.
Please register by sending an email to:
hilde.schroll.jespersen@regionh.dk
Please include your name, jobtitle/organisation/or if private, and if you have any diabilities we need to be aware of.