Wooden guardrails in Marselisborg Forest

DAV NORDIC replaced worn wooden railings with timber guardrails in Marselisborg Forest to improve road safety while preserving the natural surroundings. The project highlights how flexibility and expertise are key to delivering strong solutions – even in small-scale projects.

When a small project requires big-picture thinking and the right solutions

In the distinctive landscape of Marselisborg Forest, DAV NORDIC has replaced two short sections of existing wooden railings with timber guardrails. Although the project was limited in scope, it still tells a story about how even small assignments can evolve – and how experience and expertise are crucial to achieving a strong result.

The original wooden railings were worn down and had begun to rot in several places. On two selected sections, they were deemed unsafe for traffic, as the construction was only designed to stop bicycles and could not provide sufficient protection in the event of collisions involving cars or heavier vehicles. Aarhus Municipality therefore requested a solution that could improve road safety without compromising the visual character of the forest.

Timber guardrails as a natural part of the landscape

The solution was timber guardrails, combining documented road safety performance with a design that blends naturally into the surroundings. While traditional steel guardrails often appear technical and visually dominant, timber guardrails offer a more subdued and harmonious look that respects the character of the forest.

The round timber profiles, solid posts, and low roadside placement create a solution that is both robust and visually calm. From the road, the guardrail appears as a natural boundary, while from the forest side it remains discreet and well integrated with the terrain and vegetation. This balance between function and aesthetics is one of the key strengths of timber guardrails in natural environments.

A project with unexpected complexity

The project began with an on-site meeting between DAV NORDIC and the municipal representative, where the scope and solution were defined. At first glance, the task seemed straightforward: replace two sections, retain the rest of the railing, and carry out the work with respect for the surroundings.

However, it became clear during the process that underground cables were present along the route. This did not change the project’s objective but required careful planning and coordination. DAV NORDIC ensured that cable detection was carried out and that the necessary coordination meetings were held so the work could proceed safely and correctly.

When it was later clarified that certain decommissioned cables could not be disturbed, the project was divided into two phases. This allowed the work to continue without compromising safety or quality. It is a good example of how flexibility and a practical approach are essential – even in projects with a limited physical scope.

Focus on solutions and quality

For DAV NORDIC, the key was not that the project became more complex than expected, but to find the right solution within the given constraints. The work was adapted to on-site conditions, and the timber guardrails were installed with high precision and respect for both the road and the surrounding forest floor.

The finished result appears as a natural part of the landscape while significantly improving road safety. The guardrail is designed to withstand vehicle impacts and meets current standards without being visually intrusive.

A small project with great value

The project in Marselisborg Forest demonstrates that even small tasks require experience, overview, and the ability to think in solutions. The combination of timber guardrails and forest environment clearly illustrates how road safety and aesthetics can go hand in hand.

For DAV NORDIC, it is another example of how professionalism and flexibility create durable solutions – even when a project initially seems simple.

Gallery from the project

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