The Social Democrats (Socialdemokratiet) have unveiled a proposal to limit the height of new buildings in Copenhagen to a maximum of five storeys, in a bid to preserve sunlight access and safeguard the city’s architectural character. The initiative is expected to become a central element of the party’s platform for the upcoming municipal elections.
Five-storey cap for future buildings
According to the proposal, all new buildings in Copenhagen would be restricted to a height equivalent to five floors. The party argues that this limit will ensure that “the sun can reach our streets” and help maintain a vibrant public space between buildings.
Pernille Rosenkrantz-Theil, the Social Democrats’ lead candidate for Lord Mayor (Overborgmester), emphasized the aesthetic and social motivations behind the plan: “If we build too high, the sun cannot shine down. It’s simply not hyggeligt, and it doesn’t look like the Copenhagen we know.”
The proposal reflects a broader desire to keep the Danish capital’s urban development aligned with its historical neighbourhoods, especially the so-called brokvarterer — the 19th-century districts surrounding the city centre.
Traditional architecture as inspiration
Alongside the height restriction, the Social Democrats also advocate for architectural guidelines requiring that new constructions be primarily brick apartment blocks with sloped roofs or row houses. This typology is meant to mirror the architectural identity of Copenhagen’s older districts.
Køhlers Have in Sydhavnen is cited by Rosenkrantz-Theil as a successful example of this approach: a contemporary development that respects the local character while offering modern housing solutions.
Urban planning trends across Europe
Copenhagen’s proposed height restriction echoes similar urban planning policies in other major European cities. Cities like Paris, Vienna, and parts of Berlin also enforce limits on building height to preserve sunlight access, maintain architectural harmony, and protect historic skylines. These planning frameworks aim to balance the needs of urban growth with the preservation of cultural and environmental qualities in densely populated areas.
Mixed reactions from city officials
The initiative has already sparked debate at City Hall (Københavns Rådhus). While the Social Democrats insist the proposal will foster a more beautiful and liveable city, critics argue it could hamper urban development by limiting density in a growing capital.
The final shape of the proposal will depend on the outcome of the local elections, but it reflects an ongoing tension in Copenhagen between rapid urban growth and the desire to protect historical aesthetics and quality of life.
