Superkilen, an urban park designed by BIG + TOPOTEK1 + SUPERFLEX that recently opened in Copenhagen, Denmark, includes everyday objects from over 60 different cultures, and is a feast for the eyes with its eclectic collection of architecture, landscape and art. What a perfect place to take a bike ride through this lovely corner of Scandinavia.

The one kilometer (0.6 mile) urban park meanders through the Norrebro area north Copenhagen’s city center, with the result of contrasting spaces in one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in Denmark. The competition, initiated by the City of Copenhagen and Realdania Foundation back in 2005, was to build a unique urban space with a strong identity on both a local and global scale. The $17.4 million development broke ground in 2009 and opened to the public this summer.

Superkilen features three color-coded areas, each with a distinct vibe and aesthetic: the large and expansive red square serves as an extension of the adjacent sports hall and offers range of recreational and cultural activities; the black square, the heart of the Superkilen, is where residents can meet by a Moroccan fountain and play a game of chess; and a linear green stretch serves as a natural meeting place for large-scale sports activities. The three sections form the foundation for a surrealist collection of more than 100 objects from 60 cultures from Qatar to China imparts the true nature of the local neighborhood. The result is democracy and demographics contributing to a much needed green space.

Superkilen brings together objects from around the world and innovative urban design

Photos courtesy Iwan Baan.