Grønnegården Kindergarten is a new Nordic EcoSwan-labeled daycare centre in Gladsaxe for 156 children, located on the site of the former farm Grønnegården from 1884. The project combines modern sustainable wood construction with respect for the site’s cultural heritage and addresses 9 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Cultural Heritage – The Barn. SDG No. 11

The new buildings are designed as complementary architecture inspired by the original farm buildings. The historic barn has been preserved, transformed into a covered playground, and integrated into the nursery as a fourth wing, creating a seamless connection between old and new.

A CO2 storage. SDG No. 9 & 13

The nursery has been developed with a strong focus on reducing its carbon footprint. The buildings are primarily constructed from timber sourced from plantation forestry, while the use of CO2-intensive concrete has been minimised. Solid timber walls with wood fibre insulation and timber cladding allow the buildings to function as long-term carbon storage. According to LCA analyses, the CO2 stored in the timber offsets emissions from materials, transport, construction, and 50 years of operation.

Indoor climate. SDG No. 3

The solid timber walls (CLT) are built without plastic membranes, while recycled bricks without plastic paint are used in wet rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. These breathable materials help regulate moisture and temperature naturally, creating a stable and healthy indoor environment.

Recycled bricks. SDG No. 12

Recycled bricks have been used for firewalls and exposed facades, assembled with cement-free lime mortar so the materials can potentially be reused again in the future.

Light and solar panels. SDG No. 3, 7 & 13

All living spaces receive daylight from two sides, while large skylights create bright communal areas and gathering points for the children. A central light well in the main building provides daylight to shared spaces throughout the nursery.

Rainwater and biodiversity. SDG No. 6 & 15

The roofs are made from painted metal sheets with a low environmental impact, allowing rainwater to flow safely into the existing pond system without polluting the surrounding ecosystem. Outdoor areas and playgrounds are designed as wild nature landscapes with native plants that support insects and biodiversity.

Artistic colour scheme. SDG No. 4

The artistic colour scheme has been developed by visual artist Malene Bach, whose work adds a sensory and artistic dimension to the architecture, turning the nursery into a creative environment for children and adults alike.