From architect to creator of urban oasis: Danish man's green journey across China

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In a world where career paths are often linear, Morten Holm, a 56-year-old Danish architect, exemplifies the dynamic "slash" lifestyle, seamlessly transitioning from architect to urban designer, and now operator of a nature school on a suburban farm. Yet, beneath these varied titles lies a singular goal: to create urban oases that harmonize city life with nature.

Holm's journey began in a small Danish town, a place apart from the bustling cities of China where he has spent over two decades. "It's hard to draw that path from the beginning," Holm reflected. "Everything I do is very much connected, allowing me to take advantage of everything I have learned and accumulated over time. It feels like one shift, and then you start something new."

His first visit to China was a business trip in 2001, which sparked a curiosity that would change his life. "Every morning, I would sneak out to explore the city before the meetings," he recalled. The vibrant streets, the bit chaotic yet lively hutongs, and the city's transformation captivated him.

Ten years later, Holm decided to move to China, selling his stake in his Danish architectural firm and setting up a new partnership in China "to understand and learn from or even be part of the country's rapid development".

Archiland, the design company Holm partnered with, now operates across several Chinese cities, focusing on sustainable architecture and urban design. Among the projects he has undertaken in China, the renovation of Beijing's Liangma River stands out as the most impressive one to him.

Inspired by Copenhagen's urban revitalization projects, the local government in the Chaoyang district of Beijing held a competition for the renovation of the Liangma River, as Holm recalled. "And the design plan of our combined team with Nordiq informed the final adopted and executed plan."

Before the renovation, Liangma River was a neglected, inaccessible, and ecologically degraded area. "It was mostly for old people walking their dogs," said Holm. "But Beijing only exists because of its ability to master its waterways through these canals. Yet, after thousands of years, these rivers have been forgotten. We basically just needed to revitalize these hidden corridors and make them accessible again."

For Holm, the renovation of the Liangma River was to create a "soft living space", boosting local businesses and enhancing residents' quality of life. "When urbanization reaches a certain level, it's not just about quantity — more routes and housing — but about making life in the city more livable, increasing the quality of life, and making people happier," he said.

Today, the Liangma River has become a beloved urban retreat, drawing comparisons to Paris' Seine River.

But Holm's vision extends beyond urban projects. In 2020, he and his wife transformed his in-laws' orchard into an organic farm and green school called FunFarmFam, inspired by Denmark's green education models.

Sustainable goals

"We offer courses for both schools and families in animal and food literacy and sustainable development goals," Holm said. "These courses allow children to connect with nature. Our curriculum goes beyond the classroom, creating a kind of school extension and serving as an urban oasis."

"Every weekend, we host family activities or special design thinking classes, encouraging students to solve real-life problems," he added. "The 'Green School' has become a beacon for urban families seeking a connection with nature."

Holm's work also reflects a broader trend in China toward sustainable development. "China has changed dramatically in the past 20 years. It's now a leader in new energy manufacturing and installation," he observed.

Holm sees parallels between China and Denmark, noting a shared pragmatic approach to development and the potential for collaboration. "Bilateral collaborations can be very fruitful in areas, including agriculture, circular economy, and urban livability," he said.

yangran1@chinadaily.com.cn