Just outside Copenhagen lies Brøndby Garden City, a unique neighborhood where homes are arranged in perfect circles surrounded by lush greenery. Built in 1964 with approval from the Brøndby municipality, the design was inspired by traditional Scandinavian village layouts from the 10th century. Landscape architect Erik Miguind envisioned the circular format to encourage a sense of community among residents.
These circular settlements are only available for living between April and October. For six months each year, city dwellers can rent these small houses to reconnect with nature and enjoy a peaceful retreat from urban life. The homes are modest—mostly used as sheds or garden storage—and strict rules govern their use. Permanent residence is not allowed, and applicants must live within 20 kilometers of Brøndby.
Each of the 26 circular gardens contains about 16 triangular plots, totaling 284 homes. At the center of each circle is a shared space, often used for parking or neighborhood gatherings. The houses are equipped with basic utilities like water, electricity, and sewage systems, and tenants can add features such as solar panels.
Photographer Henry Doe helped bring attention to Brøndby with his stunning aerial images. He discovered the garden city by chance during a visit to Copenhagen and was struck by its beauty, comparing the layout to a sliced pizza. His photos, taken under rare clear skies, sparked widespread interest in the area.
Rent is affordable—around $150 per month—and tenants can stay for half the year or visit on weekends to tend their gardens. The gardens are rented separately from the houses, which are privately owned.
Brøndby Garden City reflects Denmark’s growing interest in urban farming and sustainable living. On sunny days, many Copenhagen residents flock to local farms, which have become popular spots for relaxation and gardening. Denmark leads the world in organic food consumption per capita, with over 12.8% of its food market dedicated to organic products, according to the World Agriculture Report 2021.
Urban farming in Denmark isn’t just about growing food—it’s about building community, promoting sustainability, and helping people reconnect with the source of what they eat. Whether it’s tending a garden or sharing tea with friends, Brøndby offers a peaceful, green escape from the bustle of city life.
