Hjortespring – Living Places – Building Biodiversity

PROJECT

Hjortespring – Living Places

SERVICES

Baseline survey, planting strategy, project design

SPECIES

Great Newt, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Broad-leaved Helleborine

SIZE

1 ha

WHERE

Herlev, Denmark

WHEN

2025

CUSTOMER

Kai Dige Bach a/s

In Herlev, near Gammelgaard Kunsthal, a new residential area is taking shape—a place where nature is not only preserved but becomes the driving force behind the development. Here, nature, community, and consideration are the core values, with biodiversity as a central guiding principle, where concrete initiatives promote species richness and strengthen nature’s resilience in the midst of the built environment. At the same time, new standards are being set for how we can build with respect for both the planet and the local ecosystem, with a building footprint of no more than 30% and an ambition to reduce CO₂ emissions to 3.2 kg CO₂e/m²/year. The landscape is treated with care and respect. The existing green features in Hjortespring are preserved with an eye toward ecological connections and species diversity. Here, the new is shaped in harmony with the site-specific—on the landscape’s terms. The area also serves as a green corridor, a resting place for species migrating between nearby parks and natural areas. Green roofs create new habitats at height—peaceful spaces for insects, birds, and squirrels, for example. Around Gammelgaard Lake, trails will be built to allow people to explore the area and connect with nature. The lake will become both a biological hotspot and a recreational gathering place.

Access to the area will be based on the needs of nature and people—with priority given to vulnerable road users, new connections, and open trails. It will become a new green destination where the amenity value is not reserved for the few, but shared by all. Here, the framework is being created for communities and shared green spaces—small gardens and a green common where flora, fauna, and people alike can find room to thrive. Biodiversity is not merely a result but an integral objective that drives both design and operations—an investment in nature’s diversity as the foundation for a vibrant, resilient, and sustainable neighborhood.

Focus Species

Overview of Various Target Species

Great Spotted Woodpecker

The great spotted woodpecker is a black, white, and red woodpecker that finds insects in tree bark and dead wood. It carves out nest holes in trees, which can later be used by other birds and animals. It can therefore be called an “ecosystem engineer.” Old trees and dead wood are therefore important to the woodpecker.

Great Newt

The great crested newt is widespread throughout Denmark. It breeds in small ponds and lakes, where it is usually most active in the evening and at night. It is recognized primarily by its dark back and yellow underside with black spots. It has many small, white warts along the sides of its body and on its back. During the breeding season, the male has a tall, serrated dorsal crest. It feeds mainly on aquatic insects, worms, and other newts. It also eats the tadpoles of the common toad, which are poisonous to most other animals.

Broad-leaved helleborine

The woodland helleborine is an orchid that often grows in forests, thickets, and shady green areas. It can also be found in urban environments where soil and light conditions are suitable. Gentle care and protection of its habitats are important for the plant.

Selected focus species serve as biological indicators and ensure diversity and depth in the vegetation. At the same time, they become a key to communication, making nature’s richness more tangible and understandable to the area’s residents and visitors.

PROJECT