City of Trondheim | Norway 2009

Exhibited Royal Academy 2010

This multi-use urban infill project in Trondheim is conceived as an inhabited stack of timber, cut to form its internal and external spaces, and its through-routes. Its street-facing façade exposes the end grain, creating a strong linearity and also referencing Norway’s important timber industry. Variations in length give a strong sense of texture and casual, approachable appearance – appropriate for a building with some public functions.

The façade, which follows the line of its neighbouring buildings, conceals behind it a dramatic spatial arrangement: a private courtyard area for its residents, and a cultural centre. Comprising also of self-contained studios and backstage facilities for an adjacent theatre, the building maintains clearly defined areas for public, semi-private and private activities.

It’s ground floor follows the gentle slope of the site, which helps to slow down the pace of movement through the building, and encourage further exploration of the centre itself.