Peeking through the trees, Nordisk Kollegium stands as a testament to community and tradition. Let’s explore this unique residence hall in Copenhagen. Nordisk Kollegium was founded in 1942 by H.O. Lange. Architect Hans Jørgen Kampmann designed the beautiful functionalist building.
Located in Østerbro, the Kollegium houses 130 students from various universities. The building’s architectural style reflects functionalism. This austere aesthetic was popular in the 1940s. The red-brick wings curve around an open courtyard. Despite its age, Nordisk Kollegium blends into Strandboulevarden seamlessly.
Nordisk Kollegium emphasizes academic and social life. Residents actively participate in daily activities. Sporting, cultural, and festive events create a vibrant environment. This creates a strong sense of community among the residents.
One of Nordisk Kollegium’s defining features is its common meal program. The kitchen staff prepares breakfast with a lunch buffet. Meals are served on weekdays from 7 to 9 a.m. Weekends and holidays offer a later breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. Dinner is served daily from 6 to 7 p.m. The menu includes traditional Danish dishes and international cuisine. Fruit is served for dessert every day, except Sundays when there is something special.
Residents are obligated to help with dishes and serving ten times a year. These shifts last around three hours. They occur in the evenings and on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This arrangement fosters a sense of shared responsibility and camaraderie.
The dining hall is a central meeting place. Residents sit at long tables and eat with their corridor mates. Mornings are a chance to mingle with students from other corridors. A rule prohibits mobile phone use encouraging interaction. Residents are encouraged to connect with each other.
Many traditions bind the dorm together. October is dedicated to the NOKO open. This legendary tournament features unique competitions. Rum Truffle Eating and Apple Throwing are among the events. There is also Listening to Medina and the Great Heads or Tails Tournament.
At Christmas, a huge tree adorns the dining room. Residents decorate it during the annual Christmas crafts day. They enjoy mulled wine and traditional Danish treats. On Store Bededag, residents wear student caps for a tug-of-war. They compete against G.A. Hagemanns Kollegium at the Kastellet Citadel Church.
Twice a year, the entire dorm gathers for Plenum. Residents review the agenda and vote for committees. There are numerous committees, including a Cheese Committee. There is also a Farm Committee and the cultural committee Faust. A Dog and Horse Racing Committee also exists.
All residents hold a position of responsibility. Titles include Bicycle Master and Sewing Machine Master. There is also a Fireplace Emperor, King Frost, and Squeegee Master. Flag Master is also a title. Nordisk Kollegium offers a unique living experience. Its traditions, community meals, and diverse activities create a lasting impression.