Specialist Knowledge

Stormwater Management

Heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent, presenting growing challenges for cities to manage stormwater effectively. Traditional approaches such as expanding sewer networks are no longer sufficient, making alternative solutions like Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) a necessity. This approach enables water to be managed on the surface while simultaneously reshaping the terrain of cities and landscapes.

Urban common in the Arena quarter, photo: Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Urban common in the Arena quarter, photo: Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Technical pragmatism and poetic expression

At Gottlieb Paludan Architects, we work with stormwater management at all scales – from urban streetscapes and courtyards to large recreational landscapes. Across all our projects, we aim to integrate SUDS solutions that are not only technically robust but also enrich the urban environment with sensory, aesthetic, and recreational value. We design elements that reflect the climate and weather – rain gardens, channels and ponds that tell stories of time, nature, and place.

Contextual and long-lasting stormwater solutions

We combine technical insight with aesthetic and social considerations, ensuring that our stormwater solutions meet climate adaptation requirements while enhancing the urban and landscape experience. We believe that sustainable solutions should be carefully integrated into their surroundings, building upon the site’s inherent qualities. This approach creates functional and resilient landscapes that are deeply rooted in their context while remaining adaptable to a changing climate.

Our work is informed by both practice and research. We have actively contributed to knowledge development through initiatives such as the industrial PhD project ROOM FOR RAIN, which focused on stormwater solutions that unite technical performance with aesthetic and experiential qualities. These experiences ensure that our solutions are not only effective but also enriching – helping stormwater become a visible, meaningful part of the city’s and landscape’s identity.

Kagsåen Stream, climate change adaption, visualisation: Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Solrødgård Climate and Environment Park - landscape, Photo: Lars Rolfsted Mortensen

Solrødgård Climate and Environment Park - landscape, Photo: Lars Rolfsted Mortensen

A sensory approach to climate adaptation

We see climate adaptation not just as a technical discipline, but as an opportunity to create engaging and evolving urban spaces. When stormwater becomes an active design element in the city, it supports biodiversity, strengthens local identity and fosters awareness of our changing climate. This calls for thoughtfulness, responsibility and collaboration – and an ambition to create solutions that address both everyday needs and tomorrow’s challenges.

Do you want to know more about Stormwater Management?

Marise Hansen

Head of Nature & Climate, Project ManagerLandscape Architect
mha@gottliebpaludan.com+45 4171 8298

Selected projects

We transform our specialist knowledge into practical solutions. Here is a selection of projects that illustrate our approach and experience within the field.

See all porojects within Stormwater Management