The interns are part of the studio’s landscape: “We are both plant nerds.”
Cecilie and Freja are interning as landscape architects at the studio for the next six months. They are working on the project Mary’s Magical Gardens at the new Børneriget as part of their bachelor's project, which they recently visited on an inspiration trip.
"The gardens at Mary Elizabeth’s Hospital are a real-world project where we explore how landscape architecture creates healing spaces. This allows us to apply our theoretical knowledge in a practical context. Specifically, with the rooftop gardens at Børneriget, we have to consider wind as a key factor due to the height. This brings new considerations regarding plant selection," says Freja and continues:
"We are both plant nerds, passionate about combining the right plants to achieve a cohesive effect. When you add a social dimension to landscape architecture, as with Mary’s Magical Gardens, it presents a really interesting challenge."
The interest in plants and gardens runs deeper than the classrooms at the University of Copenhagen, where the two interns are studying.
"I went on a garden trip to France this summer with three generations of my family. We visited Jardin de Castillon, which left a lasting impression. The gardens at Versailles are also always worth mentioning. I have a great curiosity about historical gardens, for example, how Baroque and Romantic gardens were shaped," says Cecilie.
For Freja, the personal favorite garden is one that mimics the wild—a garden that successfully recreates wilderness in a cultivated space. "An example would be Grønningen, which is a great demonstration of a garden where plants are allowed to grow naturally."
You are a fantastic duo – it’s a pleasure having you at the studio!