Genforeningsparken

Celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the reunification of Southern Jutland and Denmark, this historic location is transformed from a parking lot back to a public park full of atmosphere, remembrance and activity.

The past is incorporated into the design with elements that elicit reflection, while the functions promote liveliness around the library and Folkehjem, letting green growth and the people of Aabenraa reclaim the square.

URBAN POWER are the design architects of Genforeningsparken from the competition entry to the adjusted design and supervision leading to the inauguration in 2020.

Genforeningsparken was the locus of events that led to the peaceful reunification of Southern Jutland with Denmark. Therefore, the design focuses on making the democratic and political process visible with a timeline of events, leading people to the library, while the supporters of the cause are represented in the 3000 footprints in the concrete and an equal number of lights at night.

With the seasonal changes of the plants and trees, a water feature and a new playground, the space is a pleasant and impressive place to be – or to contemplate from the green hills encircling the plaza.

Read more about public spaces: Town Hall Square, Nørreport Pedestrian Street, Hvidovre City Centre

Location Aabenraa, Denmark
Client Aabenraa municipality, A.P. Møller Foundation, Bitten & Mads Clausen Foundation
Year 2017-2020
Status 1st prize in invited competition, completed in 2020
Program Memorial, park, playground
Site area 5.050 m²
Collaborators Weile arkitekter, Bymunch, Kim Furdal, Elisabeth Hertzum, Sloth Møller
Team Sara Buhl Bjelke, Rune Veile, Arne Cermak Nielsen, Ewelina Purta, Marcus Innvær, Camilla Engberg, Ieva Valskyte, Sabela Barreiro, Bjartur Clementsen

Genforeningsparken Aabenraa DK