n the Byens Scene (City Stage) competition, the renowned architecture firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) won with their proposal called The Impact, which involves the redesign of three urban plazas in Copenhagen’s Ørestad district. Developed in collaboration with studios such as Doug Aitken Workshop, Volcano, NIRAS, and RWDI, the project aims to create a cohesive, vibrant, and interactive urban network that serves everyday use while also accommodating public events.
At the heart of this design lies the idea of creating a continuous, multifunctional pathway inspired by an “urban fissure” that connects three public spaces around the DR Concert Hall, Bella Arena, and the plaza in front of Royal Arena. This pathway combines light, water, vegetation, and architectural elements to invite users to engage in a dynamic experience of movement, pause, play, and social interaction.
The BIG project is designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The reuse of materials such as concrete and granite, the implementation of natural stormwater management systems, and the planting of native, climate-adapted vegetation significantly reduce environmental impacts. According to estimates, this design produces only 0.1 kilograms of carbon dioxide per square meter per year, reflecting a responsible approach to urban design.
Each of the plazas retains its unique characteristics while being connected through a unified design language. At the DR Concert Hall plaza, the existing fountain has been transformed into a public platform with stepped seating, floating islands, and interactive lighting. The Bella Arena plaza features a green pathway that extends to the building’s façade, offering spaces for rest, pause, and social interaction. Finally, the pathway leading to the Royal Arena uses sculptural volumes and guiding lights to create an architectural and inviting experience for visitors.
This project follows BIG’s successful presence in Ørestad, an area previously home to landmark projects such as VM Houses, The Mountain, and 8 House. Now, The Impact not only redefines the physical structure of the three plazas but also introduces a new model for public space design—one where architecture, nature, and human experience are seamlessly integrated.