On the outskirts of Odense to the west, we visited Bodilhaven, a modern senior housing community developed with a focus on quality of life, community, and sustainability. Accessible by taxi from central Odense, this project is specifically designed for adults over 50, with an emphasis on social interaction and creating a safe living environment. Common areas and green surroundings play a central role in the everyday life of residents. The development consists of approximately 68 rental apartments with two to three rooms distributed across three floors. Each resident has direct access to a large, covered atrium garden where shared facilities encourage connection and community.

The project is developed by Juli Living, a division of Urban Partners, a Scandinavian developer specializing in rental housing projects. This is their eighth covered atrium rental project in Denmark, reflecting a proven model for senior housing in the region.

Our visit occurred during the middle of summer holidays, so staff were not available. However, several of the community’s residents graciously offered to show us around, including Ib, who was particularly welcoming to visitors from Canada.

The central atrium garden is a striking space, with large round paper lamps scattered throughout beneath concrete columns that support a wooden ceiling with polycarbonate glazing. Outdoor furniture and plantings create an inviting environment. This central garden serves as a natural gathering spot that connects apartments and fosters an active, close-knit neighborhood.

During our midsummer visit, outdoor temperatures reached approximately 27 degrees Celsius, while the interior atrium maintained around 29 degrees despite open windows along the sides creating a cross-draft through the space.

The walkways and podiums throughout the community include designated areas for gaming, exercise, and socializing, encouraging residents to remain active and engaged.

The entire complex functions as a co-housing project where residents rent their units, with government assistance available to help cover costs. We visited Kirsten in her efficiently designed one-bedroom apartment, which demonstrates the thoughtful use of space throughout the community.

The common space features a large kitchen and dining area with modern lighting and décor, providing an appealing environment for residents to gather and socialize.

The entire complex is constructed using mass timber combined with a concrete structure, topped with an expansive wooden ceiling structure that supports a polycarbonate skylight, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces.

The exterior is clad in black lacquered pine, while the balcony areas feature a clear natural stain, creating visual contrast and highlighting different zones of the building.

Overall, residents express satisfaction with the complex and their individual units. However, the lack of on-site management and the property’s isolated location create challenges when building maintenance issues—such as elevator repairs or lighting problems—need prompt attention.

This innovative courtyard concept has since been applied to numerous projects throughout Scandinavia, making outdoor living possible in the northern climate while enabling seniors to maintain an active and social lifestyle year-round.

We are grateful to Bodilgaarden for their hospitality during our visit.

Silverhub Team