Imagine living in a home that sparked a revolution in housing. That’s Bakkehusene. These row houses stand as a testament to innovative design and social ideals. Bakkehusene represents one of Denmark’s earliest examples of row house construction.
Bakkehusene emerged from a vision. The Copenhagen General Housing Association sought to provide affordable homes for workers. F.C. Boldsen founded the association in 1920. He aimed to create homes with gardens inspired by English garden cities. He also wanted to emulate Kartoffelrækkerne and Brumleby. These were existing worker-housing areas.
Architects Ivar Bentsen and Thorkild Henningsen designed Bakkehusene. They drew inspiration from traditional townhouses. They also looked to Lægeforeningens Boliger for inspiration. The focus was on functionality and a human scale. Bakkehusene offered something new. Each of the 171 homes had its own front and back garden. This allowed residents to grow their own vegetables.
Construction of Bakkehusene occurred between 1921 and 1923. The houses were built on land belonging to Bakkegården. This farm was located at the foot of Bellahøj hill. The name Bakkehusene reflects this location. The design featured 1.5 stories. It included a stock construction similar to Nyboder.
Interestingly, Bakkehusene didn’t immediately appeal to workers. Many considered them too simple. They also felt that they resembled barracks. The location was also a drawback. It was far from the city center. There was no tram service at that time. Instead, intellectuals and artists embraced Bakkehusene.
Bakkehusene sits along Hulgårdsvej and Rødkildevej. Access roads include Markvej and Bakkevej. The homes are divided by the green space of Rødkilde Plads. The eastern and western sections create a cohesive community.
The design prioritized functionality. Architects emphasized a sensible layout. This approach became a hallmark of Danish functionalism. Houses were arranged around a central common area. Two rows of linden trees framed this space. Gardens were a crucial element.
Bakkehusene marked a turning point. It was the first major row house development in Copenhagen. It set a precedent for public housing. The buildings were officially protected in 1981. This recognition highlighted its architectural significance. It also acknowledged its cultural value. Bakkehusene was a unique example of early 20th-century row house design.
Today, Bakkehusene stands as a beloved residential area. It’s a milestone in public housing. What was once considered too plain is now highly sought after. Bakkehusene represents a blend of history, architecture and community. As you stand here, remember the visionaries who shaped this unique neighborhood.