Papirøen

Best known among Copenhageners for the funky street food market that once occupied the deserted halls. In a few years, the location will be even more lively, with attractions including modern art and a harbor bath.

The peninsula of Christiansholm, known as Papirøen (literally ‘the Paper Island’) is said to be the crown jewel of the inner harbour. With Inderhavnsbroen now making the transition across the harbour smooth, it is one of the most spectacular spaces in the city.

The site was originally home to a storage facility for rolls of newsprint for the Danish press. From 2014 – 18 temporary tenants such as Copenhagen Street Food, the art centre Copenhagen Contemporary and various showrooms made it a popular, vibrant urban destination for locals and tourists alike. People gathered for a coffee in a polka-dotted cup from designer Henrik Vibskov’s café and sat by the water looking across to the city centre. But as the leases have expired, brilliant new things are happening.

COBE’s vision to create new halls make the island attractive for both visitors and local residents, as informal public functions will merge with private housing. People will enjoy a green public area, an event hall and a large swimming hall with an attached harbour bath facing Operaen, while a broad, unifying promenade will flank the area.

From houseboats to multi-storey apartments, 270 to 340 residences will enjoy both a view of the water and an intimate green courtyard. New and iconic, the buildings will be contemporary, yet inspired by the warehouse structures and gables of the neighbouring areas.