Gudhjem Climate Adaptation

Gudhjem Climate Adaptation

Gudhjem Climate Adaptation

Climate adaptation of a historic coastal town

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Marshall Blecher

Co-founder

Client

The Gudhjem Town and Museum Association

Location

Gudhjem, Bornholm

Category

Climate resilience

Role

Architect

Timeline

2024 - ongoing

The mountain and archipelago town of Gudhjem is uniquely situated between steep cliffs and the open sea. The harbour now functions as a cultural and social meeting place, where local life and tourism meet. However, with climate change, the lower part of Gudhjem Harbour faces an increased threat from more frequent storm surge events and erosion. A threat that has already proven serious and will eventually damage the harbour's structures and the vulnerable coast.

MAST has prepared a sustainable vision plan for the harbour front and coastline, from Kranapladsen to Nørresand, which tackles these challenges. The plan includes climate adaptation of the area and the resulting change in traffic conditions and the use of the freed up urban space for new activities and living options.

With respect for nature and the existing attractions at Gudhjem harbour, a number of simple and effective landscape and architectural features will be established. The new destinations and accommodation options along the harbour and beach will improve conditions for both everyday life and tourists, with offers and experiences that appeal to everyone – from families to adventurers. Together, they create a coherent network of paths and squares that invite longer stays and exploration of the city's natural and cultural qualities.

Due to climate change, the lower section of Gudhjem Harbor faces an increasing threat from frequent storm surges and erosion—a threat that has already proven serious and will eventually damage harbor structures and the vulnerable coastline. The Gudhjem Town and Museum Association has commissioned MAST to draft a sustainable vision plan for the waterfront and coastline - stretching from Kranpladsen to Nørresand - to address these challenges. The plan encompasses climate adaptation for the area, the resulting changes to traffic flow, and the utilization of newly freed-up urban space for new activities and recreational areas.

A holistic plan that protects the harbour against the water, creates beautiful urban spaces, and improves connections and the city’s maritime identity – for the benefit of both locals and visitors.

Large sections of the coastline around Gudhjem are naturally protected by projecting rock formations that break the waves before they reach the shore. The characteristic low-growing rock vegetation is enhanced, acting as both an erosion mitigation measure and an aesthetic link between the town, the rocks, and the sea - a transitional zone that strengthens the site’s recreational quality and invites people to linger, move about, and enjoy the views

Business enquiries:

Magnus Maarbjerg, founding partner

Press enquiries:

Marshall Blecher, founding partner

© 2026 MAST. All rights reserved.

Business enquiries:

Magnus Maarbjerg, founding partner

Press enquiries:

Marshall Blecher, founding partner

© 2026 MAST. All rights reserved.

Business enquiries:

Magnus Maarbjerg, founding partner

Press enquiries:

Marshall Blecher, founding partner

© 2026 MAST. All rights reserved.