Copenhageners are known for their love of swimming, regardless of weather. Soon, they will have a striking new venue to indulge that passion. KAI, a 'water culture house' on Paper Island, is set to open on 5 December, adding a new dimension to the Danish capital's harbourfront.
The project is part of a broader effort to transform Copenhagen's Inner Harbour from an industrial port into a vibrant cultural waterfront. Designed by the Japanese firm Kengo Kuma & Associates, the name KAI cleverly blends the Japanese word for sea with the Danish word for quay (kaj), reflecting both its design heritage and its location.
A civic hub for water and wellbeing
Spanning roughly 5,800 square metres, KAI is composed of five brick towers, each shaped to mirror the pool it covers. The ground floor houses a 25-metre fitness pool, a teaching pool, and three children's play pools. From here, bathers can step directly into designated harbour swimming zones, including one that overlooks the Opera Park and another with views of the Royal Danish Playhouse.
The first floor is dedicated to wellness, featuring a therapy pool, a hot pool, and a cold plunge pool. An open-air valley pool and an outdoor onsen offer panoramic views of the harbour, while three saunas provide additional relaxation options. The facility also includes a café and a shop, making it a destination for both locals and visitors.
Yuki Ikeguchi, lead architect and partner at Kengo Kuma & Associates, described KAI as 'Paper Island's cultural cornerstone' and 'a civic institution dedicated to water and community.' He added that the house is 'open to all' and aims to create 'new settings for everyday life in Copenhagen, where physical and mental wellbeing can become a natural part of urban life.'
The opening of KAI comes at a time when European cities are increasingly investing in public wellness infrastructure. From innovative water management in Puglia to wastewater treatment efforts in Gallipoli, the continent is grappling with how to balance urban development with environmental sustainability. KAI's design, which integrates swimming with cultural programming, reflects a growing trend of multifunctional public spaces.
While Copenhagen already boasts several harbour baths, KAI stands out for its scale and architectural ambition. The project is part of a wider regeneration of Paper Island, a former industrial site that is becoming a cultural quarter. The island already hosts the Copenhagen Contemporary art centre, and KAI is expected to draw both residents and tourists.
For those planning a visit, KAI will be open year-round, with extended hours in summer. Admission fees have not been fully disclosed, but the facility is expected to be accessible to all, with discounts for residents and families. The harbour swimming zones are free to use, though access to the pools and wellness areas will require a ticket.
As Copenhagen continues to reinvent its waterfront, KAI offers a model for how cities can blend leisure, culture, and community. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just looking for a unique way to unwind, this new water house promises to be a refreshing addition to the European urban landscape.
