Saxogade is a lively social shopping street in Vesterbro, Copenhagen, stretching approximately 650 meters from Vesterbrogade in the north to Dybbølsgade in the south. It features a diverse range of businesses, including Café Sonja, Saxo Cykler, and the toy and hairdresser shop Ruben and Bobby. Uniquely, all the shops on Saxogade are social enterprises, operated by the social NGO Settlementet Vesterbro since 1986. Their mission is to foster a respectful work community in the street, aiming to help people re-enter the workforce.

Saxogade's new look
In close collaboration with Saxogade's businesses, arki_lab has developed a design proposal to upgrade the street's appearance and strengthen its shared identity. The design introduces a coordinated palette of new façade colours, inspired by Saxogade's existing graphic identity and tailored to the character of each business. Complementary awnings, colour-matched to the individual façades, create a cohesive streetscape while allowing each storefront to maintain its own expression. New street lighting and wayfinding elements improve visibility and orientation, making the street more welcoming and inviting for visitors. The proposal also introduces a series of mobile planters in Saxogade's signature topping colours, bringing greenery to the street. Together, these elements support the lively energy of the community and the street’s identity.  

Click here to explore arki_lab's new design for Café Sonja, one of the businesses on Saxogade.