Bjarke Ingels' transformation of a 100-meter-tall incinerator into a social and cultural hub in the heart of Copenhagen is set to open this coming spring. An example of what the Danish architect refers to as 'hedonistic sustainability', the waste-to-energy plant will not only be the cleanest in the world, but is also without equal for doubling as a public park, complete with hiking trails, a climbing wall, and a 600-meter-long ski slope.

Nearing completion, the Amager Resource Center—opening in seven weeks and billed as one of the most exciting openings of 2019—has begun testing its distinctive recreational option. This week, for the first time, public visitors have been allowed the chance to give the artificial ski slope a try. Capitalizing on the remaining winter holiday, a section of the slopes will be open a few days a week before an official, large-scale public opening in spring.

The slope has been designed in three sections, each graded by steepness and each offering different levels of difficulty in order to cater to highly trained skiers as well as beginners. There will also be a freestyle park for practicing jumps and tricks. On the decision to top the energy plant with a ski slope, Ingels has said it came from realizing that despite its cold climate, there were no mountains in Copenhagen for residents to enjoy during their several months of snow. Come spring, it will now be able for Copenhageners to ski all year round.