Scan Magazine, Issue 159, October 2023

SCAN

MAGAZINE

SCANDINAVIAN FOOD TRENDS YOU MUST TRY 8

BIG ANNUAL NORDIC ARCHITECTURE SPECIAL SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN GEMS

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Editor’s Note

Autumn is officially upon us and with it has come the time for our big annual Nordic architecture special. We couldn’t be more excited to present this year’s selection of talented architects and mind-blowing projects. Scandinavian architecture has always been known for its functionality and human-centred approach, but the firms we talked to have taken things to another level to build a world that will last. Opening the theme, we talk to the people behind the greatest architectural event of the year, the World Architecture Festival, about beauty, sustainability and new visions.

As always, you will also find a host of beautiful Scandinavian design gems in this issue, from shapeshifting candleholders to jewellery capturing the fragile beauty of Arctic nature. We also have the

pleasure of talking to Maria Åkerberg the founder and CEO of the award-winning natural Swedish skincare brand MARIA ÅKERBERG.

Lastly, we look at a number of cultural events and attractions throughout the region and at some Scandinavian food trends to try. Indeed, it is comforting to know, that even as the days are getting shorter, Scandinavia has plenty to offer to keep them bright.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue of Scan Magazine as much as we enjoyed making it.

Signe Hansen, Editor

SCAN

In this issue

COVER FEATURE

25 Eight Scandinavian food trends you must try With some of the world’s best chefs living and working in Scandinavia, the region is well known for its food enthusiasm. But it is not just amongst professionals that food takes centre stage; most Scandinavians engage in some sort of foodrelated hobby – we take a look at some of the trends worth a try.

BEAUTY

6 The power of nature – perfected and bottled Scan Magazine talks to Maria Åkerberg, founder and CEO of the namesake global skincare brand, and discovers how her simple natural approach trailblazed the industry at a time when chemicals and hidden ingredients were the norm.

DESIGN

10 Scandinavian design gems

A shapeshifting candleholder, recycling bins that actually look good, and jewellery that captures the fragile beauty of the Arctic landscape – In this theme, you can explore a broad variety of gems that embody the Scandinavian design geist.

CULINARY EXPERIENCE OF THE MONTH

22 Petri

The bustling streets of Stockholm are home to many culinary gems, but few are as intriguing as Petri. In a talk with founder and chef Petter Nilsson, we explore how food can evoke and share memories.

THE BIG ANNUAL

60 Nordic architecture special Scandinavian architecture has always been known for its functionality and human-centred approach, but the firms we talk to in this big special have taken things to another level. Confronting the environmental and societal challenges of today, they are determined to build a world that will last.

World Architecture Festival: Opening the theme, we take a look at what to expect from this year’s World Architecture Festival, the biggest festival of its kind.

CULTURE

90 Dance House Helsinki

Opened in 2022, the long-awaited Dance House Helsinki is a milestone in the history of Finnish performing arts. We explore the architecture, visions, and story behind the new cultural powerhouse.

92 The best new events and music in Scandinavia

Where to go? What to see? It’s all happening here in this month’s Culture Calendar of the best arts events in the Nordics. Meanwhile, our music columnist Karl Batterbee picks out the best new tunes in the region, and illustrator Gabi Froden ponders a view from the sky.

The power of nature: perfected and bottled

MARIA ÅKERBERG has become a household name around Sweden and abroad for people looking for genuine skincare with deep roots in nature. For nearly 30 years, the brand has been trailblazing the market for skin- and haircare by providing solutions that make a real difference, extracting the power of pure and natural ingredients into products that win awards and new followers by the year.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Maria Åkerberg

MARIA ÅKERBERG - the brand as much as the individual behind the brand - lives and breathes a holistic approach towards the kind of products that should be applied to our bodies: ”Stuffing our bodies with waste and poor-quality products will only generate more waste and poor results. We need to ask ourselves: what does our skin really need to look and feel good?

The skin, our largest organ, is made up of several layers that are affected differently

by different ingredients, and our skincare products are created to work together by soothing, protecting and strengthening without harming the natural processes in your body,” says Maria Åkerberg, founder and CEO of MARIA ÅKERBERG.

Changing the narrative

Things have changed since Åkerberg embarked on her journey in 1995, at a time when the skincare market looked very

different from today. Skincare brands didn’t list their ingredients and most options consisted of synthetic chemicals without any connection to natural sources. Åkerberg, who’d grown up creating her own concoctions in her kitchen with a grandmother who instilled an early interest in natural remedies, decided to be the change and started her brand to provide a groundbreaking alternative on the skincare market. ”My grandmother was a huge inspiration: she paid great attention to self-care and created her own creams and mixtures with pure natural ingredients. I’ve infused this into my brand by using the natural functions and attributes of plants, transferring these qualities to our products by extracting the beneficial effects that will work won-

ders on your skin,” says Åkerberg. Vitamins, antioxidants, salts, lactic acids and natural preservatives are distilled from the nature that surrounds us; red clover, nettle, juniper berry, horse-chestnut, honey, beeswax, algae, clay, sunflower oil and much more are bottled up in well-researched combinations to provide remedies that create real change. The philosophy behind is simple yet solid: to provide products that help the skin help itself with products that nourish, moisturise and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier.

Local presence brings greater impact

From development, administration and testing to warehouse and productionall activity takes place on the west coast of Sweden, in a factory in the small town of Frillesås. By keeping everything under one roof, it’s easy to make quick decisions and implement new products or campaigns. ”We’re a group of tight-knit experts who care deeply about our products and about developing new ideas that have a huge impact on the beauty industry. We’re a relatively small team compared to other skincare brands which makes it easy for us to be flexible and test new things,” says Åkerberg. The team has won multiple awards for its work and six of its products have been nominated the ”Product of the Year” in

the Organic Beauty Awards. The natural and flexible philosophy has also enabled MARIA ÅKERBERG to be world-first with unique beauty treatments - one of them includes a treatment that consists of living stem cells from roseroot, offered in salons and providing improved resilience of the skin. The stem cells help kickstart the skin’s own reparation process and will leave an immediately smoother, clearer and brighter complexion, that improves over time.

Products for hair, body and face MARIA ÅKERBERG’s portfolio ranges from facial-, hair-, body-, and baby care to makeup and men’s shaving products. Bestsellers include the Scalp Treatment Rosemary which has become a viral hit on social media with thousands of testimonials attesting its near-magical ability to thicken the hair and leave it healthier and smoother than before. The Face Lotion More is another favourite for mature skin, with red clover extract it will create a regenerating as well as moisturising effect - a bestseller that’s been around for more than 20 years. New products are launched on a regular basis and Åkerberg is always on the lookout for new formulas that will enhance wellbeing and provide real effects on skin and body. ”I came into the business to make a difference and prove that natural ingredients can provide the same, if not better, body care than synthetic products. I wanted to bring some accountability into this industry, and I believe that our products and the response from our customers have helped prove my point: nature is our greatest ally and if we decide to utilise its attributes in an intelligent way, it’s bound to leave a positive impact on our bodies, minds and, in the long run, our world,” Åkerberg concludes.

www.mariaakerberg.com

Instagram: @mariaakerbergsweden

Maria Åkerberg.

Fashion Diary

We dress to welcome fall with all its colours, crisp air, muddy walks, and cosy, candle-lit evenings at home.

By Åsa H. Aaberge | Press photos

A herringbone tweed wool coat epitomises fall. The “Nelson” coat from Berg Berg is a great overcoat with its generous length, and soft raglan shoulder that offers comfort and a relaxed appeal. The coat is finished with a tall collar to turn up against the elements. Berg Berg, “Nelson” coat in brown, €1,150 www.bergbergstore.com

For the chillier months of the year, corduroy feels essential and comfy. For a classic style in a timeless colour, go for the “Denz” cotton cords in brown from the Swedish brand Oscar Jacobson.

Oscar Jacobson, “Denz”, €199 www.oscarjacobson.com

Kick leaves and stay comfy on Sunday walks in the suede hiking boots from Norwegian footwear brand Mono. The boots have a shearling lining and durable rubber soles. No more slipping on wet trails. Mono, “Hiking core”, €220 www.monofoo.com

Forget that awkward gap between the trousers and the socks with over-the-calf socks in a ribbed cotton structure from Swedish Myrqvist. Myrqvist, “Nils” socks €20 www.myrqvist.com

With a warming beret on top, it does not matter that the temperatures drop. This hat from Swedish PHI comes in wool and multiple colour options.

PHI Atelier, “18.6” Black beret, €100 www.phiatelier.com

Imagine this: It’s an early October morning, it’s foggy and the air is sharp. You have to walk your dog, go to the office or out for a coffee run. What to wear? Might we suggest the Gaby coat from Danish Skall Studio? With an oversized fit and wide raglan sleeves with corduroy inside the cuffs, it bears references to autumn and country style.

Skall Studio, “Gaby” coat, €700 www.skallstudio.com

For mucky trails and city walks alike, the waterproof “Ahus Hybrid” from Swedish Tretorn, keeps your feet warm and dry in style.

Tretorn, “Ahus Hybrid”, €150 www.tretorn.eu

Little pops of colour make every day a bit brighter. Wear the sharp blue tights from Swedish Stockings with a wool skirt or long dress.

Swedish Stockings, “Olivia premium tights”, €29 www.swedishstockings.com

Korunilo: Jewellery that celebrates the allure of the Arctic

Delicate earrings, solid rings of gold and silver, and pendants highlighting nature found in the Arctic – these are a few of the pieces lovingly designed by Sanna Puhakka for her company Korunilo, a jewellery studio based in Rovaniemi in Lapland in the north of Finland.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Korunilo

For over twenty years, Puhakka has designed jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty of her country. “In 1999, I graduated as a goldsmith from the Lahti Institute of Design. People were immediately interested in my products, and I began working as an entrepreneur. “Years before, I had trained as a gardener, so I was very familiar with the stunning symmetrical shapes of flowers and plants,” she explains, adding: “Gnarled trees, the crunch of snow, and the crack and flash of the Northern lights; I wanted my creations to immortalise the things that grow and are experienced in the Arctic Circle.”

Puhakka believes jewellery is strongly associated with memory and experience. This comes from working in the goldsmith’s shop in Santa Claus village in Rovaniemi. “I learned to recognise what kind of jewellery Finns like. I could also distinguish the jewellery habits of visitors from different countries and how their cultures influenced what designs were

important or special to them. Primarily, I always drew my attention to people’s jewellery and thought about the feelings and connections each person related to their pieces. Even if the jewellery is not valuable in terms of price, emotionally it might be the most valuable object in one’s world. The feeling associated with the moment when the piece of jewellery was acquired makes it this way,” she explains. “If I can design something like that for someone and make them feel like that with one of my creations, I think I will have succeeded.”

Puhakka designs and makes all her jewellery herself. “My jewellery is a 100 percent Finnish product,” she says. Korunilo’s most popular products come from Puhakka’s Arctic Flowers range of pendants and earrings. “The Snowflake Arctic flowers are very popular. Snowflakes are one of a kind. Captured under the night sky of the arctic in Finland, they are unique and special, like all of us,” reflects Puhakka.

Other admired lines of jewellery are the Blueberry line, which features silver earrings that conjure the shape and texture of blueberry leaves, and the small, sparkling circles of the necklaces and tiny drop earrings in the Endless Love range.

www.korunilo.fi

Instagram: jewelry.korunilo

Facebook: Korunilo

Korunilo has a popular online store that allows people from all over the world to buy Puhakka’s designs. For those who are living in Finland or who are able to visit, Korunilo designs jewellery for retailers in Rovaniemi, Levi, Ylläs, and Helsinki.

Trained as a gardener, Sanna Puhakka’s passion and reverence for nature shows in her designs.

Korunilo’s most popular pieces come from its Arctic Flowers range of pendants and earrings.

OPENING 8. 10. 2023

CLAY Museum of Ceramic Art Denmark

2023

KUNSTSILO Norway 2024

The Hepworth Wakefield England 2025

www.cosytimesceramics.dk

Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde

A shapeshifting candle holder returning from the past

Forever changing, shifting form, and expanding according to the creative mood of its owner, the relaunched STOFF Nagel candle holder is much more than a functional design item. It is a sculptural piece with which design fans can mould and alter the ambience of a room and the direction of the eyes that capture it.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: STOFF Nagel

The classic STOFF Nagel candle holders can be used to create a never-ending number of unique sculptures.

Originally designed by the German architect and artist Werner Stoff in the 1960s, the STOFF Nagel candle holder quickly became a roaring success in Europe. For decades, however, the iconic candle holder has been out of production and only found in vintage stores. But this changed in 2015, when Danish entrepreneur Bine Malund Lind fell in love with the candle holder’s creative potential and decided to bring it back to life. Notedly, the function of the candle holder had very little to do with her decision.

“It was more about it being a sculptural piece that I could put my own signature into - I could shape it just as I liked - and about the architectural quality; It looked so perfect - it has no 90-degrees angles, but is round and curvy everywhere,” explains Lind and continues: “What I liked was that the more I put on, the more pieces I added, the better it looked.”

Relaunched in various materials and price ranges in 2015, the STOFF Nagel candle holder has not just regained its standing among European design fans but is also beginning to make its way around the globe, with a big launch in Japan set to happen next year. It has been accompanied by a number of additional relaunched products, such as the STOFF Nagel bowl and the STOFF Nagel stand as well as new additions such as a floor stand and wall hanger.

A historic design

While it was drawn by architect and artist Werner Stoff, the idea for the unique or-

ganic shape of the STOFF Nagel candle holder originated from Hans Nagel, the CEO of the Nagel Company, a small family company. Originally created during the hardship of the Second World War, the company came about as the father of Hans Nagel, a blacksmith, sent out his sons to collect the empty American cartridges which he transformed into candle sticks and other decorative objects. Having taken over the family business, Hans Nagel developed the idea for the iconic STOFF Nagel candle holder on a skiing trip in the 60s. “During the trip, an accidental backward tumble forced Nagel to break the fall with his hand, thus creating the finest three finger-holes in the snow. The perfect holes brought a candle holder to mind, a beautiful, sculptured, and simple candle holder with room for three slim sticks,” explains Lind. Having met Stoff in the design community of Cologne, Nagel presented him with the idea, and asked if he could draw the design for him. This became the beginning of a design success that was perceived as signalling a movement away from the past.

Making your living room

Instagrammable every day

Produced in the original small pieces for three candles, the STOFF Nagel candle holders can be adjoined and sculpted into a never-ending number of unique sculptures, with or without candles. The design thus offers endless opportunities for design fans who like to shake things up for themselves or for followers on social media.

“A lot of people like to show off their homes on Instagram, but when taking three photos of a living room, it will look the same. They cannot change the sofa, but what they can change are the accessories. In that way, we have the perfect product because with it they can make a different setting again and again. You can create a tall tower, a long floating line along the table, make it big, make it small. Nobody wants to be mainstream, we all want to give a personal touch to our home,” stresses Lind, and goes on to explain that many people relate to it as LEGO for adults; something they can be creative with and put their own signature into.

Moreover, products such as the newly launched hand-polished bronzed brass piece, wrapped in a neat organic cotton bag and sleek gift box, offer the giver the opportunity to give the perfect gift for years to come. “When you unwrap it, you feel like unwrapping a piece of jewellery, it’s so elegant and as it patinates in your own home, the look will depend on a variety of things, where you place it, how much you touch it, and so on,” says Lind and concludes: “What’s more, what really makes it the perfect gift, is that you can buy the same thing to the same person again and again; you will find it on the wish list every year because for a collector, it doesn’t matter if they get five new pieces the same year – they will always want more.”

www.stoffnagel.com

Facebook: STOFF Nagel

Instagram: @stoffnagel

Having relaunched the candle holder in 2015, STOFF Nagel has just launched some new additions, a floor stand and wall hanger, allowing for even more creativity.

Danish entrepreneur Bine Malund Lind is behind the relaunch of the STOFF Nagel candle holder.

HART & HOLM: Beautiful and high-quality designs for every budget

Based on the principles that a product can be beautiful and useful, on-trend yet timeless, high-quality and affordable, HART & HOLM, an all-female independent company, creates an array of reading glasses, sunglasses, and blue-light glasses that do not cost the earth. Caring deeply about what they do, the women behind the firm want us all to look beautiful when looking after our eyes.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Anne Sofie Bordinggaard Karlsen

“I reached an age where I needed reading glasses,” says HART & HOLM founder, Marianne Hartvigsen. “I couldn’t find what I was looking for and nothing appealed to me,” she continues. Thus, an idea began to take shape. HART & HOLM launched its first range of reading glasses in 2018, and with Marianne’s extensive experience in creative fashion-design and production, HART & HOLM has grown into a successful Danish design brand. “We want to create beautiful, good-quality designs at a

reasonable price,” Hartvigsen says. Their impressive range now also includes sunglasses and blue-light glasses, all created with beauty, durability, and sustainability in mind. “We aim for beauty in everything we do,” Hartvigsen and Anne Sofie Bordinggaard Karlsen, the company’s content creator, agree. “Something useful can still be beautiful,” Karlsen continues.

Timeless beauty and sustainable products for everyone

Timeless designs are crucial to the company also as a tool to make people use their glasses for longer and thus make them more sustainable. “We don’t stick to trends for the sake of trends and are very critical about our designs,” Marianne explains. “We are inspired by what is around us, by life, by people we see day-to-day,” she continues.

With a keen eye for detail, HART & HOLM creates glasses for everyone, focusing on more senior customers for reading glass-

es, and - predominantly - younger people for sunglasses and blue-light glasses. “We encourage everyone to look after their eyes,” Marianne says. The look of the blue-light glasses is perhaps particularly important as young people generally seem less keen to wear glasses. “What we really want is for the blue-light glasses being so wearable, that our younger customers won’t mind wearing them, even in public!” Marianne continues.

“I want to open up our customer base,” Marianne says. “But what I really want is to create many more affordable, beautiful, everyday things, items that people have a real need for,” she expands. For the time being HART & HOLM is all about glasses, but with genuine passion and heads full of ideas, the sky is the limit.

https://hartandholm.com/

Instagram: @hartandholm

Pinterest: @hartandholm

LinkedIn: HART & HOLM

Facebook: HART & HOLM

HART & HOLM sell and post their products all over Denmark and Europe via their website.

Trieste Mini Beige Marble as worn by HART & HOLM founder Marianne.

IKEA Museum is in the world’s first IKEA store from 1958, in Älmhult. Here you can explore IKEA through the ages and discover exciting exhibitions. Take a break in our restaurant and find a unique souvenir in the gift shop. Curious? Visit IKEAmuseum.com

Come and visit Check into Älmhult

For almost 60 years we’ve been making guests feel at home, at the world’s only IKEA Hotell. A house full of meeting-places, delicious food from Småland, and room for everybody – with IKEA furnishings, of course. Take a look today at IKEAhotell.se

Adding a new dimension to Scandinavian minimalism

Though the interior designs by Spliid emanate a bohemian French charm, many of them are based on British Liberty and William Morris patterns, and yet, they are quintessentially Scandinavian. Indeed, it is not surprising that the collection of home accessories by the new small Danish interior design brand has secured the affection of design enthusiasts in various parts of the world.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Spliid

Many of Spliid’s colourful designs are based on British Liberty and William Morris patterns.

Founded in 2019 by former freelance fashion- and interior designer, Charlotte Kjær Spliid, Spliid offers something slightly different than most of the dominating brands of the Scandinavian design market. In her collection, minimalism, muted nuances and clean lines are replaced by uplifting colours, beautiful intricate patterns, and softly textured surfaces. “I felt like adding a bit of colour and soft patterns to the minimalist design Scandinavia is otherwise known for,” explains Spliid. “But it’s a fine line - I still like the Scandinavian style, I just want to give it another touch, make sure it doesn’t become too boring.” In doing so, Spliid has created a new dimension, a softer and warmer one, to the Scandinavian minimalism.

A cushion that will lift your spirits

While Scandinavians are well-known for their fascination with sleek and classic designs, they are also known for their love of cosiness and their desire to put their own individual fingerprint on their homes, and it is those last two passions that Spliid’s collection eminently captures. With charming tea cosies, cushions in beautiful patterns, beautiful tote bags, prints, and knitted blankets, the collection allows people to add little touches of colours and softness to their homes, providing a beautiful contrast to the muted colours often dominating Scandinavian homes. “The art is to ensure that it doesn’t become too cluttered, too much,” Spliid stresses. She goes on to explain that though the patterns drawn by William Morris in the late 19th century are

world-known for their striking colours, new nuances of classic designs - such as one of her own favourites, the Pimpernel pattern - ensure they complement modern interiors. “The iconic patterns are still very relevant today, especially when you add a new nuance,” she says.

Reducing waste

Having always dreamt of doing so, Spliid took the leap and started her own business when she was in her early fifties. “I always wanted to do it, and almost did several times, but then I never quite had the courage, until one day - when my kids had grown up – I did,” she says plainly.

The late start, however, not only meant she had many years of experience working with textiles under her belt, but also that she was highly aware of the unnecessarily high environmental footprint of the industry. Thus, when starting her new venture, she set out to increase resource efficiency in her own business. For this reason, many of Spliid’s products are produced in Denmark and the rest in other

locations in Europe. This, she explains, ensures not only the best quality, but also reduces the carbon footprint of her products, which are mainly sold in Europe.

Likewise Spliid has worked to reduce fabric waste by various measures; her collection of striking tote bags is, for instance, produced using surplus fabric from the cushion production. Moreover, her collection of striped cushions is made from 100 percent recycled cotton. “We also aim not to use plastic, so when we ship out products it will be in cardboard boxes, and we always use used boxes, we never buy new ones; it means they might look a little worn,” she explains in a way that leaves no doubt that she is less worried about this than about the unnecessary waste and resource consumption using new ones would cause.

Besides agreeing with her on this point, in some odd way, the idea of opening a slightly frayed cardboard box to find Spliid’s collection of beautifully coloured and softly patterned home interiors seems just perfect.

www.byspliid.dk

Instagram: @spliid.dk

Spliid’s products are sold through concept stores, interior design centres, coffee stores and more in various parts of the world, but principally in Scandinavia and France. Products can also be purchased through the brand’s website.

Former freelance fashion- and interior designer, Charlotte Kjær Spliid, had many years of experience working with textiles before launching Spliid.

Spliid’s beautiful collection of colourful tote bags is produced using surplus fabric from the cushion production.

AKI, a new take on a timeless light source

Laura Ercole’s glass oil lamps were born in response to the loneliness many felt during the Covid pandemic. Reimagining a timeless functional and sacral object for the modern age, the AKI oil lamps encourage us to connect to our inner selves, others, as well as the divine.

By Linda A. Thompson | Photos: AKI

In 2020 we all felt fragile, unsafe and our human nature resurfaced prominently. At that time, the necessity of relating to our souls and the inexplicable became part of a sudden throwback. We stayed inside our homes to shelter, like our ancestors did in caves. Like in the beginning, we relied

on fire to illuminate the darkness both as symbolic and physical phenomena.

The power of fire and its living presence again became synonymous with home, protection and warmth, and, simultaneously, it reclaimed its role as a medium to

connect us with the unknown and the divine. In the company of a lively flame, we dedicated time to thinking and reflecting; to baking and cooking; to writing, painting and manual activities. All these things helped us to take care of ourselves and others, to find comfort and cultivate hope.

It’s why Laura Ercole, a designer based in Trento, Italy, decided to reimagine the oil lamp and make it a key part of her Animacontemporanea design brand in 2020. “Everything developed with Covid, when people were forced to stay at home and we were feeling lonely. The AKI oil lamp was a way to make them feel connected to others and to remind us of our basic needs as human beings – as well as to feel part of a community,” she explains. “AKI comes from Japanese and signifies ‘sparkle’, ‘bright’ and ‘hope’, a perfect name for my little oil lamp, crafted to keep you company. In today’s digital society, I think it is important too to have an icon that connects us to our humanity and others.”

An antidote to screen light Brighter than a candle, the soft glow of an AKI oil lamp is particularly special. It’s an antidote to the harsh blue light of the screens that dominate our modern lives. A light that our ancestors would have known. A light that links us with our past and our future.

On an emotional level, it’s a light that allows us to step away from daily pressures and focus on ourselves. The gently dancing flame encourages us to slow down and find a moment of calm, quiet contemplation. In its presence, we can connect with our inner emotions and improve our spiritual wellness – a dimension that’s so often forgotten amid the

hustle and bustle of these complex, uncertain times.

On a physical level, the light of an AKI lamp creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere. It helps us escape from the digital world, unwind and live in the present moment. It sparks a sense of wonder, revealing the hidden beauty in our surroundings – not only in the areas it illuminates, but in the pockets of darkness and shadows it leaves behind.

A mesmerising shape

AKI’s design is unique among other oil lamps in the market that are reproductions of old ones, reinterpretations of traditional oil lamps or simple roundshaped thin glass globes. Ergonomically shaped to stay in your palm, AKI offers a grip to move it securely. The eye-catching design is a smart feature as the lamp keeps spinning if accidentally hit with no danger for your furniture or oil spills.

The lamp’s original shape has mesmerised many customers since Laura launched the AKI oil lamp range. “I wanted my lamps to be durable objects to cherish and pass on, as a testimonial to great European craft, keeping in mind a sustainable way of living. So enhanced durability is connected with conscious consumer choices to reduce the products we buy and resources we need to produce them,” says Laura, who purposefully used glass for her oil lamps – a ma-

terial that can be recycled time and time again. “This also gives you the meaning of long life, of something that comes from the past, is in the present and can go into the future.”

AKI lamps are easy to clean and refill and can be repurposed and used to hold a small bouquet of flowers, or as a reed diffuser. “These are all welcoming rituals,” Laura explains. “So, when somebody comes into your home, and you want to create a warm cosy atmosphere, you simply light a candle or an oil lamp, arrange some fresh flowers or spread a relaxing scent. In this sense, AKI is really connected to your personal dimension. It’s not just an oil lamp.”

No longer essential for light, oil lamps have acquired a new significance – one that goes beyond its continued religious usage. In our increasingly busy, fastpaced lives, it offers comfort and companionship. It adds beauty to our living spaces. And it encourages quiet reflection, bringing moments of calmness and clarity that connect us to our inner selves and enhance our spiritual well-being.

The story of the oil lamp is the story of us. And it’s a story that’s still being written.

www.akilamps.com

Instagram: @aki_oillamps

Laura Ercole has reimagined the oil lamp with AKI.

London welcomes Nordic design solutions

As part of Nordic Design House, office interior brands TreCe and Glimakra of Sweden are heading to the UK. Bringing clever recycling solutions and acoustic designs to a wider audience, customers can expect function-led design with sustainability at heart and a detail-driven, minimalistic approach.

By Emma Rodin

As long-standing leaders in their respective fields, TreCe and Glimakra have naturally gravitated towards British territory. As two solutions-driven brands that follow the same school of design, they are joined at the hip by a mutual dedication to high quality, intelligent design and an ethical business model. Not to mention how they both place humans at the centre of each design.

“It’s not just about bringing Nordic elements overseas though,” explains Nordic

Design House UK sales director Magdalena Tym. “It’s about sharing a certain way of thinking and behaving which goes beyond just the products themselves. These two brands have a shared purpose of solving problems that we, as consumers, sometimes didn’t even know existed. Telling that story is just as important as the products themselves.”

Coming to a showroom in London’s Clerkenwell (the capital’s interior hot spot) soon, there’s still time to get to

know the two brands a little better ahead of launch.

Statement bins? Why, of course. Experts in marrying function with great design, TreCe is a small Swedish family business turned industry-leaders. The company – which was established in 1973 and has always been led by innovation – is known for serving offices and public spaces with reliable, eco-conscious and durable products, such as stylish recycling bins.

The need for recycling solutions exists in all offices and public environments, for functional as well as aesthetic reasons. Providing waste bins and recycling stations that are made from carefully tested materials and guaranteed under respect-

Created in collaboration with design studio Kauppi & Kauppi, Glimakra’s BuildUp is inspired by the soundscape of Sweden’s forest and glades. Photo: Glimakra of Sweden

ed environmental certifications such as Möbelfakta, TreCe’s products take the faff out of waste management – and look good too. Plus, they come in a variety of colours to either blend in or stand out.

“Some may wonder what the point is of an aesthetically pleasing recycling binI like to think that you’re more likely to look after a product and take positive actions in relation to it if you feel a connection with it. I guess it’s like when you were little and given a shiny, new notebook for school. You’d care for it and keep it safe,” says Tym.

Acoustics meet aesthetics

Similar to TreCe, Glimakra of Sweden (established in 1948) puts an great amount of care and craftsmanship into providing public spaces with sound comfort. Today, the company has the biggest range of floor and table screens in the industry, attending to every acoustic need. All products are manufactured in the company’s own factory in the Swedish village of Glimåkra and each step of the supply chain is carefully monitored by its team.

The most important aspect of Glimakra’s products is that they are tested acoustically by an expert in the field to help each space reach its full potential. An office, for instance, needs furniture and interior elements with varied levels of acoustics.

Great examples of this are the BuildUp Pods and Pavilions created in partnership with design studio Kauppi & Kauppi. The brief was to deliver a vision for a meeting room of the future. So, Kauppi & Kauppi took inspiration from Glimakra’s surrounding forest and glades –a place that’s quiet, yet never fully silent – aiming to capture their sense of wellbeing and calm.

Speaking of wellbeing, mental health is an important aspect of Glimakra’s designs and is considered in clever, yet subtle ways. A good example is the sound-absorbing Campus line of tables and benches. Designed with a wooden top and fabric-covered insides to pick up noise, these

pieces not only look good, but constantly and unnoticedly work to give workers an optimum environment to thrive in.

Something else that neatly binds the two brands together is their shared strive for new and better solutions; always with humans in mind, of course. Moreover, there are numerous exciting new projects in the pipeline for both brands. So, do keep an eye out for two newcomers that are here to stay, ready to take office design solutions to the next level.

www.glimakra.com

www.trece.se

Instagram: @glimakra.of.sweden @treceab

Glimakra’s Campus collection of tables and benches are designed to reduce noise. Photo: Glimakra of Sweden Hightower. Photo: TreCe

TreCe’s Ridge line takes the faff out of waste management – and look good too. Photo: TreCe

A culinary journey rooted in memory and Swedish Nature

In the heart of Stockholm’s Östermalm neighbourhood, a culinary gem named Petri is making waves in the gastronomic world. SCAN Magazine delves into the story behind this unique establishment, guided by the insights of its visionary founder, Swedish chef and restauranteur Petter Nilsson.

By Oliver Hugemark | Photos:

The bustling streets of Stockholm are home to many culinary gems, but few are as intriguing as Petri. An intimate gastronomic world of its own, Petri is the brainchild of Petter Nilsson, a seasoned chef with a long history in the world of fine dining. Having honed his skills in France, Nilsson returned to Stockholm with a dream to create a dining experience that is both sublime and deeply personal.

The name ‘Petri’ is not just a moniker, it’s a nod to Nilsson’s past. “The historical connection to the name is through Petri Pumpa in Lund,” he says. “I worked there in the nineties, a time that deeply influenced my view on food and ingredients.” This reverence for history and personal experience is a recurring theme in Nilsson’s culinary philosophy.

Nilsson’s inspiration doesn’t just stem from his past experiences or the ingredients he uses, however. He draws from the world of conceptual art, the intricacies of the human mind, and the vast palette of ingredients and products at his disposal in and around Stockholm. “The initial inspiration is dreamlike,” he says, “and it materialises through our palette.”

For Nilsson, food is more than just sustenance, it’s a journey through memories and the senses. “Food often links to memories of places and events,” he says. This sentiment is beautifully encapsulated in Petri’s signature menu, named after the evocative scent of rain – ‘Petrichor’. “For me, it evokes the memory of cycling as a child after a summer rain,” Nilsson adds.

Celebrating the vegetable Petri’s dishes are inspired and in tune with the changing seasons. Nilsson and his tight-knit team prioritise seasonal ingredients, ensuring that the menu is always fresh and reflective of the time of year. “We aim to adapt every day according to the prevailing climate,” he explains. This commitment to seasonality ensures that every dish at Petri is in constant creative flux.

While many fine dining establishments focus on luxurious proteins, Petri has made a point to celebrate the vegetable. “We aim to challenge our ingredients, get to the heart of each one,” Nilsson explains. This approach results in dishes that highlight the unique flavour and texture of each vegetable, offering a dining experience that is both innovative, exciting, and ever-changing.

No fine dining experience is complete without the perfect wine pairing, and Petri excels in this domain also. With a wine list recommended by Star Wine, Nilsson’s approach is clear. “We look for the uniqueness in each wine,” he says. “The accent that can amplify nuances in our dishes. It’s

© Per-Anders Jörgensen / Petri Restaurant

not about labels or appellations but the rich diversity of expression.”

Nilsson’s commitment to local sourcing is evident in his close relationships with local farmers and suppliers. “The fact that they are in our vicinity is purely positive as their products reflect our place and time,” he says. “This local focus ensures that every dish at Petri tells a story of the land and its people, even though we take a lot of creative liberty to refine and elevate all ingredients into unique dishes.”

Expressions of nature on a plate

As we look to the future, Nilsson has plans to continue to evolve and express the essence of Petri. “We hope to go as far as possible on our journey,” he says. “To continue being inspired and inspiring.” With a focus on sustainability, both gastronomically and humanely, Nilsson’s ambition is for Petri to be a mainstay in the culinary world, getting better with each passing season and year.

For those fortunate enough to dine at Petri, what can they expect? “A contemporary dining experience,” Nilsson

promises. “A nuanced culinary journey accentuated by craftsmanship, combinations, and sublime surprises.”

In a world where dining out has become commonplace, Petri offers a chance to travel through time and memory, to experience exciting expressions of nature

on a plate, and to embark on a culinary journey like no other. Every meal at Petri tells a story, shares a memory, and is a moment in time as precious as the scent after a sweet summer rain.

www.petrirestaurant.com

Instagram: @petrirestaurant

Petri is the brainchild of Petter Nilsson, a seasoned chef with a long history in the world of fine dining.

Petri offers a chance to experience exciting expressions of nature on a plate, and to embark on a culinary journey like no other.

When a grime rapper promotes veganism

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

One evening, scrolling in bed, my husband showed me a reel of the British rapper JME talking about veganism. (If you haven’t seen the reel, look it up, it’s quite entertaining.) He talks quickly (as grime rappers do) explaining why we shouldn’t eat meat and dairy solely for our pleasure when we can have that same pleasure from plants. It summarized my take on a vegan diet very accurately.

Before becoming vegan I doubted that I would ever stop eating cheese. I stopped eating meat as a kid and that was easy, to stop eating fish was not as easy but still doable, but cheese… I never thought I would stop eating cheese. For dinner, I loved spaghetti with loads of cheese and then

some extra parmesan on top. For lunch, goat cheese salad with walnuts, and as a luxurious breakfast treat, caprese and a sourdough sandwich with some gruyere.

So when I stopped eating eggs and dairy and switched over to a plant-based diet, it wasn’t easy; but I was convinced that it was the right thing to do. I didn’t want to contribute to the meat and dairy industry only out of laziness or to have some seconds of a specific taste when I could get the same experience from plant-based foods. And now, five years later; I totally agree with JME when he says “You can do that ‘mmm nice’ with plants. Bro, just eat the plants. It’s calm.” It really is just a matter of deciding.

Instagram:

Sustainability columnist Alejandra Cerda Ojensa is a Swedish sustainability blogger based in Copenhagen. She loves sustainable fashion, plant-based food, natural wines and music.

alejandracerda.co

8

SCANDINAVIAN FOOD TRENDS TO TRY

Nordic cuisine has long been an integral part of the Scandinavian identity with pretty much every second Scandinavian identifying themselves as “foodies” and engaging in some sort of food-related hobby. Scan Magazine explores eight of the Scandinavian food trends currently sweeping through the region.

By Signe Hansen and Emma Rödin

Charred Funga Farm from Ark, one of Denmark’s new, highly-praised plant-based restaurants.

Photo: Christoffer Rosenfeldt

Homemade bread – and flour (Sweden)

From dark and crusty to light and fluffy, every country has its own traditions when it comes to bread, shaping both culture and society alike. And as you may recall (you definitely do), 2020 saw a surge of homemade bread across the world, turning humble bakers into masters of the craft. An unfading trend, the Swedes have taken things one step further by also throwing homemade flour into the mix. Yep, it’s homemade with a capital h. Get your hands on a stone mill (there are small ones optimised for home use) and opt for spelt or rye flour and you’ll be bang on trend.

Food nostalgia (Finland)

A wave of food “newstalgia” is rolling through Finland at the moment. Perhaps not surprisingly, the uncertainties of the world are making the otherwise notoriously calm Finns seek a little extra comfort and security in well-known classics such as creamy salmon soup, pasta bakes and the kind of candy-covered chocolate cake that will bring the memory of a worry-free childhood back in a bite. The old classics are, however, often twisted to accommodate other food trends such as a wish to increase vegetable consumption (according to a survey, 49 per cent of Finns say they wish to eat more vegetables). This might mean adding legumes to the classic pasta bake and vegetables, such as shredded zucchini, to the chocolate cake.

Photo: dreamstime.com

Photo: istock

Sea superfoods (Sweden)

Fish and seafood feature heavily in Swedish cuisine and have always played a major part in its culinary offering (no surprise there). However, a couple of sea-made delights are having a particularly golden moment right now, one of them is black caviar. Several small-scale suppliers have popped up recently such as König Caviar, priding themselves on high-quality black caviar which can be enjoyed in lots of different ways. Full of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12, the health-conscious Swedes are loving it. The same goes for spirulina, a nutrient-packed superfood from the sea loved for its wellness-boosting benefits. Health shops across the land are stocking their shelves with supplements, tablets and powders, and Swedish providers, such as Scandinavian Algae, supply local products from their own algae farms.

Green food art (Denmark)

Long known for its exquisite New Nordic cuisine, some of Denmark’s best chefs have recently thrown their love on vegetarian cuisine and have achieved remarkable results. In 2022, Copenhagen’s famed Geranium became the world’s first meat-free restaurant to be named ‘the world’s best restaurant’ (the restaurant took meat off the menu at the beginning of 2022, but still serves seafood). With three Michelin stars and a reputation that has travelled the globe, a visit, however, needs to be planned carefully (booking opens three months in advance). Slightly more accessible is the highly praised Ark Collection of plantbased restaurants. The group’s flagship restaurant, Ark, was the first restaurant in the Nordics to receive a Green Michelin Star, an accolade awarded to restaurants that focus on sustainable gastronomy. As always in the New Nordic cuisine, the new green cuisine is full of surprises, art-like food compositions, and local and foraged produce.

Chocolate Forest, Ark Collection.

Photo: Zane Kraujina

Photo: dreamstime.com

Mushroom foraging (Norway)

Take a walk pretty much everywhere in Norway, even inside the cities, and once you start looking, you will see mushrooms, well, mushrooming, everywhere. Thus, it is perhaps not surprising that mushroom foraging has become a major trend among Norwegian food professionals and amateurs alike. If you want to give it a try, you’re in luck because, with the growing trend, a number of helpful tools have been developed. One of them is the Digital Soppkontroll (digital mushroom control) app through which you can send in pictures of your picks and receive a quick reply from Norway’s mushroom association (yes, there is one) as to whether the mushroom is edible or not. Recently, even young people have jumped on the trend and with Norway’s plentiful, stunning natural landscape and the Norwegians’ enthusiasm for outdoor activities, the trend does not seem to be waning.

Mocktails (Finland)

None of the Scandinavian countries are traditionally known for abstinence when it comes to alcohol and the Finns are no exemption. However, in the last year, mocktails have made a perhaps surprising splash in Scandinavia, and now Finland is also getting on the alcohol-free party train. Food and drinks blogs teem with recipes for everything from traditional Christmas drinks such as cranberry punch and mulled cider to refreshing summer drinks with the trendiest of Scandinavian berries, sea buckthorn and cloudberries. Alcohol-free spirits such as Helsinki Nolla, the first Finnish alcohol-free distillate, crafted with herbs and spices, and Danish ISH have made their way into cocktail menus all over the capital. Meanwhile, the Nokian Brewery offers a wide range of alcohol-free beer and canned mocktails to enjoy anywhere.

Photo: dreamstime.com

Photo: Nokian Brewery

Microbreweries and beer-cooked food (Norway)

Like other Scandinavian countries, Norway has seen a host of microbreweries pop up in the last decade. Many are complete with an adjoining pub, cellar or restaurant for beerflight tastings and delicious beer-infused food offerings, such as beer-steamed mussels, beer and beef stew, and, however odd it may sound, beer ice cream. It might sound weird, but with a strictly regulated market for wine import, perhaps it is no wonder, that the Norwegians have gone all in on the artisan beer craze. If you want to taste what the fuzz is about, Oslo Mikrobryggeri is the place to start when visiting the Norwegian capital. In Trondheim, E.C Dahls Bryggeri offers guests a delicious beer-inspired dining experience as well (this is the place to visit for beersteamed mussels).

Nordic Street Food (Denmark)

While Denmark is the warmest of the Scandinavian countries, it is by no means a country that has traditionally had a thriving street food culture. As a matter of fact, before the recent trend, the only street food the country was known for was the classic hotdog stand, oozing in the corner of most town squares. In the later years, however, temporary and permanent street food markets have been popping up in all major cities, and, of course, once the Danes take over a food phenomenon, you can trust them to take it up a notch. Thus, you should not expect an array of greasy burritos and cheese-covered fries, no; the Danes have turned street food into an art form. Lobster hotdogs, Michelin-star burgers, and fresh seafood are just some of the street-food treats that you may enjoy when visiting the capital, and the other cities are doing their best to keep up!

E.C. Dahls Bryggeri has brewed beer in Trondheim since 1856, but only recently opened its doors to the public.

Photo: Martin Håndlykken/VisitNorway

POPL Burger: The team behind the famous Danish restaurant noma spent months developing the recipes for their burger restaurant POPL in a fermentation lab.

Photo: Michael Gardenia/ Copenhagen Media Center

NORDIC ARCHITECTURE

WAF: The world’s

biggest architecture festival -on beauty, sustainability, and new visions

World Architecture Festival (WAF), the biggest festival of its kind, returns to the magnificent settings of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. This year, the festival delves into the theme of “Catalyst”, with an exhilarating programme of talks and project presentations from worldclass firms, including several shortlisted Scandinavian architects.

By Signe Hansen

Photo:

Enabling participants to share their work and visions, WAF provides the perfect setting for innovation and new ideas, and that is exactly the point says programme director Paul Finch. “The whole idea of having a festival where people travel long distances to be here is for the exchange of ideas. When you have around 1500 people in the same place seeing new projects, hearing the judges’ feedback, listening to conferences, and discussing new ideas, it all becomes part of the big conversation.”

Having been in various locations in Europe, WAF (which was launched in 2008) first moved to Singapore in 2012 and thereby significantly increased its international attendance. The festival stayed in Singapore for four years before moving on; this year, it returns to the Marina Bay Sands venue for the first time since.

A multicultural melting pot for new ideas

With 76 International speakers and presenters, 495 live pitches from leading architecture firms, and a spectacular exhibition, this year’s WAF is set to be a

regular melting pot of ideas. The event is expected to welcome participants from around 60 different nations, joining to engulf themselves in the world of architecture. During the festival, they will have access to a host of talks and debates,

beginning with a talk by Charu Kokate, Senior Partner/Director at Safdie Architects on the WAF stage. Among the many other talks is one by the recipient of the President’s Design Award “Designer of the Year 2020”, architectural writer, ed-

Lighthouse at Darling Park, WAF Future Project: Commercial mixed-use.

Photo: Henning Larsen and Architectus

Architects from all over the world gather at the yearly World Architecture Festival.

Photo: WAF

ucator and book designer Kelley Cheng, who will share her experience on how to make an outstanding architecture book.

Meanwhile, on the Festival stage, projects will compete in various categories within three different sectors: Completed, Future and Landscaping. Unique to WAF, all finalists will be presenting their project live to a panel of judges consisting of more than 135 industry experts. Alongside the event, Inside, the World Festival of Interiors will be competing for awards in 11 different categories of interior design.

Outside the categories

To celebrate its tenth anniversary in 2017, WAF introduced a number of WAFX prizes to award “projects that best use design and architecture to tackle major world issues, including health, climate change, technology, ethics and values.”

“In recent years, we’ve seen a much greater attention to ideas about sustainability in all its meanings – more emphasis on carbon, a responsible use of materials, multigenerational buildings and so on,” says Finch. “It is some-

thing we have been keen to support, and that’s why we created this separate set of WAFX awards. No one has to pay to enter; everyone who is shortlisted in Future projects are automatically qualified.”

But while architecture can reflect and address some of the most pressing issues in society, it can also create joy through pure aesthetics. That is why, last year, one more prize was introduced,

WORD ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL IN BRIEF:

This year’s event will take place 29 November- 1 December at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

The festival revolves around the theme of “Catalyst”.

In addition to the many inspiring project presentations by shortlisted firms, the festival includes a packed programme of talks, debates, exhibitions and networking events.

More than 2000 attendees view the participating projects at the gallery exhibition each year.

Over 135 international jurors provide live feedback on all finalists’ project presentations.

Alongside the WAF festival runs the Inside, World Festival of Interiors.

Forssa multipurpose centre Akvarelli, Shortlisted in WAF Completed Buildings: School and INSIDE: Education

Photo: Olla Architecture

Norsk Retreat, shortlisted in WAF Future Project: Leisure Led Development

Photo: Atelier Architecture & Design

the International Beauty Building Price, supported by Royal Fine Art Commission Trust and Ballymore. The prize is presented to a building which “raises the spirits.” Like the WAFX awards, participating in this category involves no extra cost. “We are very happy to have that prize because WAF prizes are not specifically because something looks fabulous; it’s helpful if it does, but it’s not the only thing. But in the case of the Beauty prize, it is for projects where quite obviously the aesthetic aspect overrides.”

www.worldarchitecturefestival.com

Facebook: ArchitectureFestival

Instagram: @worldarchfest

Twitter: @worldarchfest

LinkedIn: company/world-architecturefestival/

The Scandinavian firms to have been shortlisted for awards at this year’s festival include:

Henning Larsen, Denmark, and Architectus, Australia

Lighthouse at Darling Park, WAF Future

Project: Commercial mixed-use

BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group, Denmark and

CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati

CAPITASPRING, shortlisted in WAF

Completed Buildings: Office

CINARK - Center for Industrial

Architecture, The Royal Danish Academy, Denmark

Bionic Structure, WAFX

Atelier Architecture & Design, Norway

Norsk Retreat, shortlisted in WAF Future Project: Leisure Led Development

Olla Architecture, Finland

Forssa multipurpose centre Akvarelli, Shortlisted in WAF Completed Buildings: School and INSIDE: Education

PES-Architects, Finland

OP Financial Group innovation and training centre, shortlisted in INSIDE: Workplace (Small)

Virkkunen & Co Architects

Tammisto Electricity Substation, shortlisted in WAF Completed Buildings:

Production energy and Logistics

ASAS arkitektur AS, Norway

Barney, shortlisted in WAF Future

Project: Residential

CAPITASPRING, shortlisted in WAF Completed Buildings: Office

Photo: BIG/Finbarr Fallon

HJARK: Looking outside for the future of architecture A technological advancement in sustainable design

Architecture is becoming more than designing beautiful buildings; finding a way to include sustainability and ecological considerations has never been more important. Using the latest technology, HJARK, an Icelandic architecture firm, works outside the traditional boundaries to achieve designs that benefit both nature and people.

By Karin Blak | Photos: HJARK

Hulda Jónsdóttir, director of HJARK, spent 12 years studying architecture and gaining experience in Strasbourg, France, Barcelona, London and Copenhagen. In 2019 she returned to her home country to set up an architecture practice. “Experiencing other cultures and landscapes is enabling me to work outside the box, taking ideas that might be seen as a little crazy and making them possible” she says.

Her innovative approach to architecture is strengthened by her prestigious Master’s qualification in Parametric Design from The Royal Academy of Fine Arts School of Architecture in Copenhagen. The project for her Master’s research, Beyond Structure: (in)formed finding of new shell morphologies, received the VELUX award for innovation in the use of daylight, Hulda’s first taste of winning an award, but not her last.

Parametric design allows other factors such as weather and unusual architectural shapes to be considered at the design phase, making the best of light and avoiding problems such as wind tunnels.

Kindergarten Iceland – View from street

Leiðarhöfði community park

Two years into running her own company, Hulda won an architectural competition to design a Kindergarten in Iceland, a nursery with spaces for up to 124 children. HJARK architecture went from Hulda working alone to having 10 employees within a few months including collaborating Tiago Sa, a fellow architect from Sastudio in Portugal

Kindergarten Iceland in Reykjavik

Hulda believes that winning the Kindergarten Iceland project was not just down to following the requirements of the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, which set high environmental and sustainability standards for the materials used. In addition, the project’s design fully integrates its environment, with a focus on the internal flow and optimal use of daylight, calculated using parametric design programming.

The challenges of the steep slope of the plot designated for this project were soon turned into advantages as the building pours over the side, allowing it to sit low in skyline, while blending in with the landscape and giving residents in the surrounding houses uninterrupted views over the lake. With a completion date estimated for January 2024, the nursery places are already fully booked. This is the first nursery in Iceland to achieve the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, and a point of pride for HJARK.

Leiðarhöfði community park

Shortly after winning this competition, HJARK won (again in collaboration with

sastudio and Landmótun) the competition for Leiðarhöfði community park. HJARK’s design for this challenges the existing planning for private housing and includes a community hall, a public building with many purposes. It also encourages outdoor activities, with a pier from which to enjoy the sunset in the summer and the northern lights in winter.

Situated on the south coast of Iceland, the chosen area is rich in history and beautiful nature and provides an extension to the nearby town. With a green roof rising gently from the ground covered with local flora, the buildings are designed to create a new plaza shielded from the dominant northeast winds while maximizing the effect of light and sun.

Growing success

This is just the beginning of Hulda’s success as she ventures into the tricky Icelandic landscape. Equipped with the latest architectural technology, she creates complex structures that benefit nature as well as people, while taking weather and landscape into consideration.

With the two latest achievements, HJARK has received further requests for architectural design. Among these are various residential projects in Iceland, small and large, retail such as collaboration with Frasers group UK, and specialised projects such as a complete rebuild of a house from the 1800s in Reykjavik.

The future

Asked about what she sees in the future, Hulda says “We’re just going to keep going, enter competitions and submit tenders. My Master’s in Parametric Design programming is still quite unusual within architecture and is proving pivotal during the design phase for optimal final results.”

Hulda is humble in her achievements and remembers the World Architect Festival of 2022 in Lisbon, where HJARK entered both the above projects. Hulda and Tiago were honoured to be asked to present their designs to the panel, competing against some of the biggest architects in the world. They didn’t expect to win, but simply found the experience amazing. As the winners were announced, to their complete surprise HJARK won the highly respected 1st prize with the design of the Leiðarhöfði community park.

Hulda is utilising her experiences and training, creating and shaping new design ideas and, as it says on her website, she will be looking outside to become the future of architecture. She is already on this trajectory and has much more to offer the world of architectural design.

www.hjark.is

Instagram: @hjark_architecture

Facebook: @HJARKarchitecture

Linkedin: Hulda Jónsdóttir

Kindergarten Iceland – Multi hall with built in green house to the left

Leiðarhöfði community park –View from the sea

Skaara Arkitekter – Small is also grand

With over 30 years of experience, contemporary architecture firm Skaara Arkitekter operates with two guiding principles – small is grand, and simplicity is key.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Skaara Arkitekter

Established in 1992, Skaara Arkitekter celebrated its 30-year anniversary last year. Offering both broad and specialised expertise, the Norwegian architecture firm operates with a set of values that inform everything they do.

“We’ve worked on a wide range of projects in terms of scope, complexity and size,” says founder and design manager Kim Skaara. “Smaller architecture firms like ours have a lot of spirit, and we engage with our clients on a personal level.”

A human-centred approach

Based in Oslo, Skaara Arkitekter is dedicated to creating buildings and designs

that are well-adapted to their local environment, situation and intended use.

“One of the cornerstones of our activity is keeping things at a human scale,”

the architects say. “Though we sometimes take on large-scale projects, we love the smaller projects where we can work closely with the people who will be spending time there.”

E.F. Schumacher’s 1973 essay collection

Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as if People Mattered is a key inspiration for the firm’s philosophy of keeping human beings at the focus of architectural designs. “Small is beautiful, but it’s also grand – you can create a lot of exciting and interesting things out of something small,” says Kim. “Good architecture can be done on many levels, and there’s an architectural challenge at every level, big or small.”

The human-centred approach to architecture is an integral element of Skaara Arkitekter’s philosophy, and the team is

Solhøyden is a new, modern cabin overlooking the Oslofjord.

Nevra, a conversion and extension of a former hotel into private apartments connected to a ski destination in Lillehammer. VyCOM (rendering)

passionate about creating sustainable buildings designed for longevity that are in harmony with nature, surroundings and the people who will interact with it.

Simplicity is another guiding principle for Skaara Arkitekter. The team often hold brainstorming sessions to find ways of reducing complex design and minimising as much as possible, resulting in optimal solutions with minimal effort. “In architecture, things can sometimes be needlessly overcomplicated, which can escalate the cost of realising the ideas, impact the aesthetic and even diminish the functionality of the building,” Kim says. “We believe in keeping it simple.”

Though its main focus is on smaller projects, Skaara Arkitekter also specialises in ski destinations and large-scale site development. Among their previous projects is the modern ski lodge Vidsjå at the alpine resort Skimore in scenic Tryvann, north of Oslo. The team has also been involved in several development plans in Hemsedal, Norefjell, Lillehammer, Kvitfjell and currently Vrådal in Telemark.

Sustainable architecture merging old and new

Sustainability and durability are among Skaara Arkitekter’s central values. With ambitions of being a leader in sustainable solutions, durable materials and low-en-

ergy use, the firm often reuses and repurposes existing elements in their buildings. “Using existing materials adds character and represents a fusion between old and new that is interesting to us,” Kim says.

One of the firm’s specialities is renovating existing buildings, both recent and historic. The work revolves around reshaping and transforming them using modern elements, and this innovative merging of old and new is strongly rooted in functionality. “We enjoy uplifting historic buildings so they can be reimagined and continue to be used,” Kim explains. Adapting buildings to their nature and surroundings is crucial for the firm in its quest to integrate buildings and create harmony. “A lot of modern architecture can easily be adapted to landscape and terrain well,” Kim says. “We find bold contrasts interesting.”

Though Skaara Arkitekter is known for contemporary architecture, the team is skilled at adapting to the needs and requirements of the individual client. The architects find helping clients with the remodelling of old houses and adding new elements to existing structures rewarding as well. “As professionals, we’re able to contribute with creative solutions that the client hadn’t considered at all, and we really enjoy being able to offer that expertise to satisfy their needs,” Kim says.

“We’re currently working on a remodel of a 40-year-old cabin where the sea view was obscured by a slope of naked rock in front of the living room window. The client thought the only option would be to blast the rock away, but we came up with the idea of lifting the living room level instead. That way, a brutal intervention like blowing up a beautiful rock slope can be avoided, while the residents get to enjoy the sea view – a win-win situation,” he explains.

Built to last

Skaara Arkitekter’s close-knit team of nine architects is committed to providing high architectural quality and wellthought-out designs, with client satisfaction being the ultimate goal. A key consideration in all their projects is that the architecture should be time-appropriate and built to last.

“We’re focused on architecture being timely – it should capture the spirit of the current age and be relevant for our time, in terms of aesthetics, functionality and other societal conditions,” Kim says. “Our main ambition is to achieve the utmost quality for every project we take on. We’re very committed, and always want to do our best work.”

www.skaara.no

Instagram: skaara.arkitekter

Facebook: @skaara.no

Skaara Arkitekter reuses and repurposes existing materials as much as possible in its structures. This massive wooden staircase is made from old timber logs from the renovated building. Skagen: cabin in Vesterålen, northern Norway. Photo: Nadia Nordskott

Pilares Eiendom -Making a house a home

In a modern world where many new flats and houses are quickly built with only time, simplicity, and profit in mind, Pilares Eiendom exists to slow down the process and ask the new house owners exactly what they want and need in order to make their house a home.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Pilares

Every single day, new apartment complexes, houses, and buildings are erected all across the world. Look to Norway, and you’ll find that this Nordic nation is no exception. Like in many other countries, the population of Norway continues to grow, resulting in an increased demand for housing. The continuous upspring of new residential areas, combined with people’s various needs and wants, means that the process of finding the right place for a forever home, can be a little overwhelming; some even end up feeling forced to settle for whatever is easiest.

Pilares Eiendom is a real estate developer that won’t let you settle, but rather works to ensure that the home you want is exactly the one you’re getting.

“We want to create happy homes and good neighbourhoods,” says Thomas Børnich, manager at Pilares. “A home is so much more than the four walls you find yourself in, and we want to create the home that’s exactly right for you.” Lene Omenås, Pilares’ sales and marketing manager nods in agreement, adding that each of their projects has its own history and identity, making them completely unique.

“We want our customers to be proud of the homes we’re providing, but it’s also important that those homes are contributing positively to their surroundings and

leaving an impression that will last for generations,” she says.

Selling a dream to be proud of Pilares’ journey started with a wish to provide better housing and real estate than the existing market for new housing offered.

“I think many of the large players in the field focus a lot on making production easier, keeping costs down, and so on. In the process, I think they’re completely forgetting about what the customer might want, but also what they’re willing to pay for. We wanted to offer something else, something more, and we’ve been met with great response,” says Børnich.

According to Børnich, another thing that separates Pilares from others in the same

industry is that every product and project of theirs is completely unique. “We recycle our processes, but not the actual plans,” he says. “This way, everything we create is different and new.”

Børnich explains that Pilares owes their success to their amazing, hardworking team who often collaborate and work across projects and departments to ensure that each home gets the creativity, flair and uniqueness the new homeowners deserve. “An important thing is that we, as developers, are selling a dream through an illustration or drawing. Therefore, each of our projects needs to look at least as good as – if not better than – the illustrations,” he says.

“We love exceeding expectations,” says Omenås. “On the days the projects are

SJ2 light fixture.

SJ2 wardrobe.

In 2021, Pilares Eiendom completed SJ.2, eight exclusive apartments in an attractive residential area in central Drammen.

finished, we want to be proud of what we’re handing over to the buyers, and we want them to be excited to be in their new space.”

High quality across the board

Pilares Eiendom works hard to build their brand through their projects, showing rather than telling their customers their professionalism and style. One of the projects in their portfolio that they’re particularly proud of is Ankers Hage in Drammen.

“Ankers Hage is a project that came to be through our collaboration with Solli Architects, where we combined new construction with the rehabilitation of an old corner house from 1905,” explains Børnich. The project won Arkitekturprisen

“The Architecture Prize” in 2019, a prize awarded by the National Board of Norwegian Architects. “We truly put our hearts and souls into every process to ensure that our projects elevate their local areas and look in their respective cities over a longer time, so it’s safe to say that we’re very proud that Ankers Hage received this award,” Børnich says.

Another one of their projects that they’re proud of is Skipsbygger Jørgensens

Vei 2 (SJ2) in Drammen, an apartment complex built with luxury and comfort in mind. “SJ2 consists of 8 apartments, all of which are supposed to give you that “hotel feeling” at home – a bit of everyday

luxury, if you wish,” says Børnich. ”Flos lighting, Gaggenau appliances, ensuites with tailored, high-quality wardrobes, a smart house system, integrated sound system in every room – you name it!”

One thing that truly shines through all of Pilares’ projects is the modern, simplistic style that blends into the local surroundings without disrupting its natural aesthetic. With some of their projects, such as Havegaten, Pilares also play around with the surrounding outdoor area, providing fertile oases with tall trees and climbing vines along the walls – a natural space for small and large creatures alike.

“We prioritize quality and comfort above all,” says Børnich. “Our goal is to never develop anything we wouldn’t live in ourselves.” Their wish to provide high quality does not only apply to their projects, but also their own workspace, which has been certified as a “Great Place to Work” for two years in a row. This means that Pilares’ team consists of happy, qualified and creative individuals who feel at home, a feeling that truly translates to their projects and houses built for their customers.

www.pilares.no

Instagram: @pilareseiendom Facebook: Pilares Eiendom

Lene Omenås.

Thomas Børnich.

Henrik Vibskov

Margrethe Odgaard

Tronhjem Rømer

Edda Gimnes

Patrik Söderstam

Liselotte Watkins

Martin Bergström

Lovisa Burfitt

Ingrid Berg

Thóra Stefánsdóttir

Reeta Ek

Daniel Palillo

Klaus Haapaniemi

Tuuli-Tytti Koivula

Textile

Building into Nature

An

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: Jan Peter Lehne

Norwegian nature is known for being dramatic, cold, harsh - waves that tumble onto rogue cliffs and steep mountains that plummet into breathtakingly beautiful fjords.

Yet there is a different part of Norway that often goes under the radar. Protected by numerous small islands that prevent the roughest seas from approaching the mainland, the southern coastline is quieter. The cliffs have been smoothened by generations of gentle tidal waves and are soft and inviting to touch, especially when still warm after a long day of sunshine. The gentleness of the sea also means that the sea here is quiet and often, the only sound that is to be heard, is

the steadfast ticking of an old wooden boat, navigating through the still waters.

This southernmost part of Norway, “Sørlandet” as it is called in Norwegian, though less known to outsiders, is one

of the most popular areas for cabins and holiday homes in all of Norway. The idyllic setting makes for a beautiful holiday, and buyers from across the country are eager to secure themselves a plot on which to build their summer paradise.

Coastal villas and cabins

When they do, Marius Egeland is the person they often call. The architect, who runs a studio with six employees

architectural studio in southern Norway reflects the silent beauty of an often overlooked region.

Egeland always aims to use materials already present in the surroundings. With the sea as your closest neighbour.

Buildings should slip silently into the surroundings, according to Marius Egeland.

under his own name, specialises in villas and cabins along the southern coastline.

“You have to direct the project into the landscape, preserve the rock and the flora and let the building slide into the surroundings,” Egeland explains when asked what is particular about architecture in this part of Norway.

Almost all of what Egeland does is within 100 meters of the shore, the so-called 100-meter belt, which in Norway is strictly regulated. He says that the limited number of properties for sale in the area means that the demand remains high and those that are able to build new constructions, are adamant that they want quality buildings.

Egeland is happy to comply with their wish. “We build houses that will withstand time, that will really last”, Egeland stresses.

Exceptional craftsmanship

Because many of his constructions are on properties that are not always easy to reach - many of them are even on islands without road access - the challenges for the craftsmen in the construction phase are considerable. However, Egeland knows they are up for the job.

“It might be an inheritance from the rich boatbuilding tradition in this part

of Norway, but we really do have exceptional craftsmen,” he underlines, adding that the focus on quality in this type of construction in a way makes the craftsmen’s jobs easier. “The emphasis on quality in materials and otherwise allows the craftsmen to really do their jobs”, the architect explains.

From

Valdres to Greece

While Egeland’s focus is on the southern shoreline, he is also getting an increasing number of commissions elsewhere. Much of it thanks to Instagram, which has allowed him to expand geographically.

But when the nature changes, the architecture has to change too. “I recently built a cabin in Valdres [a mountainous area in the middle of Norway] and inevitably the design has to change for the house to fit into the surroundings,” Egeland stresses.

Another place that Egeland has ventured into is Greece, where he is currently working on a holiday home. The architect explains that while the surroundings are different, the demands for adapting architecture to nature are as strong in Greece as they are in Norway.

The interior of a Valdres cabin.

This Valdres cabin is radically different from houses on the southern shoreline, though the principles are the same.

The boat house, an integral part also of a southern Norwegian house.

A reflection of nature

If “Sørlandet” gets less attention in the overall promotion of Norway, it is at least in part because people in this part of the country are somewhat reluctant to attract attention to themselves. They might be aware of the beauty that surrounds them but just let it slip almost unnoticed into the larger Norwegian context without making a fuss about it. If you stop to pay attention, however, the silent, somewhat mellow beauty of this part of the country is mesmerising.

In that sense, Marius Egeland’s architecture is a true reflection of the natural –and cultural – context he operates in.

www.mariusegeland.com

Instagram: @mariusegelandarkitekter

Fruens Alle, evening.

Valdres cabin.

Sustainable garment care

MADE IN SWEDEN

Frugal architecture in a modern disguise

Architects in western Norway build on centuries of experience when they try to limit the use of resources in new constructions.

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen

“Re-using and recycling require more creativity,” says Hedda Fjermestad Aase, architect and partner at HLM Arkitektur.

The western Norwegian company counts 26 employees, divided between the main office in Bergen and a smaller office at Voss. In spite of a strong attachment to their home region, they take on projects across Norway. Yet wherever they operate, they have to adapt to a new trend in construction, in particular of public buildings: To limit the use of resources.

“It is a matter of using less materials and money but also being able to do what you want to do on fewer square meters,” explains Maren Bjerga, also architect and partner at HLM.

A longstanding tradition

While this new approach is a challenge, HLM Arkitektur has an ace up its sleeve.

As a western Norwegian company, its employees have a very long tradition of frugality in just about everything, including architecture.

“Because historically there was always little timber here compared to other parts of Norway, people developed a special building technique known as “grindabygg”, which allowed them to construct weather resilient houses with limited resources,” Ragnvald Winjum, architect and partner at HLM Arkitektur, explains.

Hanguren.

Photo: Voss Resort, Jon Hunnålvatn Tøn

Skansemyren kindergarden.

Photo: Pål Hoff

In today’s world, the demand to reuse also extends to old buildings, in particular public buildings. A good example is the Bergen inkluderingssenter in which an old teacher’s college was turned into a new school and community centre for immigrants. This pilot project within architecture and human rights, is undertaken in collaboration with the Bergen municipal and the Rafto Foundation.

Different parts of the old college were used in different ways. In particular, a glass dome was turned into a greenhouse. “Because this approach is still relatively new both the entrepreneur and the architect chip in and contribute with ideas. It’s a team effort,” Bjerga stresses. HLM Arkitektur is also engaged in another prestigious refurbishment project in central Bergen, which is to transform the former public swimming pool, Sentralbadet, into a theatre and performance venue with office facilities.

Because of the centrality of the location, just next to the National Theatre, and because the original building is loved by some, hated by others, but known by everybody, the Sentralbadet-project is attracting a lot of attention. The western Norwegian heritage is visible also in the aesthetics of HLM Arkitektur’s work.

Durable and people-friendly architecture

HLM Arkitektur divides its time almost equally between public and private pro-

jects and regardless of what it embarks on, its focus is on durable and people-friendly constructions. For a cabin on the island of Lepsøy the firm reinterpreted a traditional building to include large glass surfaces and pointy ceilings in a construction that nevertheless withstands the sometimes very harsh weather conditions in this part of the country.

“Our aim is to make buildings that feel good to be in,” Bjerga underlines. Another example of how HLM has reinterpreted traditional architecture and really embedded the building in the sur-

roundings, is the Hangur at Voss, where HLM also has an office.

While there is much awareness in the architecture and construction industries, and to some extent also in public offices, of the need for a sustainable approach to architecture, which includes re-use and “re-beauty” as the architects call it, this is not commonplace amongst ordinary people – yet.

At HLM, however, staff do sense a growing awareness amongst young people. “It is also a matter of the resources you have available, but younger people are more attentive to sustainability matters, and may for example choose to rebuild their house, rather than build a new one,” says Winjum.

Architecture has impact

With so much emphasis put on the re-use of old buildings, architects are under a lot of pressure - it is, to a large extent, up to them to take what is there and create a new space that is not only sustainable but also feels good.

In doing so, they also create more awareness of the importance of architecture to our well-being. For as Maren Bjerga points out, “architecture always has an impact”.

www.hlm.no

Facebook: @HLM.arkitektur

Instagram: @hlm_arkitektur

Traditional Western Norwegian building technique at the Høgskolen på Vestlandet. Photo: Pål Hoff

Hytte på Lepsøy. Photo: Jan M Lillebø

Bergen Inkluderingssenter.

Photo: arkitekturfoto

CADA - Spaces that create connection

Christian A. Dahle Arkitekt AS (CADA AS), is a small, architectural collaborating one-man band in Norway, run by seasoned architect, manager, founder and business owner Christian A. Dahle. Along with his collaborators, Dahle works to create meaningful places, homes and spaces through open dialogue and collaborations.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Ivar Kvaal

For a long time, Norway’s architectural landscape has been dominated by large corporations and businesses. As a result, many new structures and buildings reflect the styles and ideas of those corporations, who often focus on lowering production costs and simplifying the process, rather than the human aspect of creating an enjoyable process.

“I’m a small player in an architectural field that is led by bigger corporations, but that means that I get to work with the client on a personal level,” says architect Christian A. Dahle.

“Along with Ragnar Osnes from Creamos AS, I participate in all the projects myself, in a way bigger competitors are unable to because their responsibility structure

is pulverised in a way it isn’t in smaller businesses.”

Dahle has decades of industry experience, in smaller and bigger firms alike. He has established several businesses with family and colleagues, held leadership roles in Norwegian firms, and been a partner in Danish C.F. Møller Architects.

“I have some years of experience in the industry and have in those years worked with some incredibly knowledgeable and talented colleagues. After so many years, I decided it was time to start something for myself,” he says.

A new mid-life adventure

After many years in the industry, the pandemic finally gave Dahle some time to work on his own projects and drawings again.

Børøya area. Photo: CADA Slyngveien.

“I was reminded of why I wanted to be an architect to begin with; I just wanted to create things. It also became the final push I needed to leave the big firm and start on my own again,” he says. “I’m actually very proud that I decided to start all over again, mid-way through life, as well!”

Since CADA’s establishment in 2022, Dahle and his collaborators have proudly drawn and completed a beautiful apartment and a semi-detached house in Oslo. On top of his existing portfolio from the last 25+ years, Dahle has been able to create several homes with direct and simple solutions and surprising results, where connection is the common denominator both mentally and physically.

“My portfolio ranges from furniture and interior projects to area development and regulation, all the way from Kristiansand in the south to Vesterålen in the north of Norway. Right now, we’ve got a few housing projects in Vestfold, including both renovating and adding structures to an old military facility from the 17-1800s.”

Despite having worked in many different places around the country with various projects, Dahle admits to having a special love for building in the nation’s capital, Oslo.

“My favourite thing is having projects in Oslo because I love being able to bike from place to place, project to project. It certainly also helps that I’ve just opened my office near Bislett Stadium in Oslo,” he says.

Creating something to be proud of Architecture in its most basic form is a very human form of art that requires not only skill and talent, but also open dialogue. “Good architecture can only be created with an open mind, clarity, persistence and good co-operation, which is why I prioritise honesty, openness and willingness in all my work,” he says.

“By working for my own firm, I don’t only have more freedom and independ-

ence, but it also gives me the ability to work more closely with my clients.” He explains that his goal as an architect is to make places, interiors, furniture and things where humans can connect and flourish with themselves, and, in turn, do the same with other people.

“It fills me with pride when I can give others well-being, enjoyment, and pleasure through what we create together. It’s important to me that we take our time to make something everyone –clients, architects, and the builders –are proud of.”

www.cada.as

Instagram: @cada_as

Facebook: Christian A. Dahle

Odins Gate.

Odins gate kitchen.

SMV Sketch. Photo: CADA

Bunnefjorden Cabin Sketch. Photo: CADA

Odins gate living room.

Careful Architecture

Link Architecture is an award-winning firm operating above the Arctic Circle. Scan Magazine explores how the firm focuses on positive impact in a fragile environment.

When talking about operations in the northernmost parts of Norway, above the Arctic Circle, “care” is perhaps the first word that comes to mind. Care for the fragile, imposing nature, care for the plants that survive at these latitudes, care for the fish and marine life thanks to which the local community survives, care for the arctic fauna and, not to forget, care for the people that live their lives in this astonishingly beautiful but nevertheless demanding part of the world.

Flakstad school in Lofoten is a good example. Robust and sturdy but also built in a way that makes this primary and middle school seem like a part of nature

itself. The building offers shelter from gusty winds and provides the students with a warm and safe atmosphere with wonderful acoustics, thanks to an innovative use of solid wood.

Although this primary and middle school is designed to withstand weather and time and was built in less than a year, it is built in harmony with the nature it is surrounded by.

A sustainability champion

It is no coincidence that it is - the team at LINK Arkitektur, one of Scandinavia’s largest architectural firms, is keenly aware of the need to take care of the surroundings. In 2022, the firm gained a special mention in the Architizer A+ Award in the category “Best Sustainable Firm Worldwide”. Amongst some 80 contributions from around the world, LINK was recognised for their efforts to build sustainably in a way that is respectful of the environment.

Architects operating in the North need a specific skillset; sensibility and expertise,

Svalbard Folkehøgskole

Photo: Hanne Jørgensen Polyflor

both technically and aesthetically. There is frost all year round, although the upper layers of soil will heat up in the summer. All constructions need to be sturdy and able to withstand the strong forces of nature that are always present in this part of the country. The lack of light for much of the winter needs to be taken into account; outdoor areas need to be safe and the indoors need to be particularly accommodating and warm because so much time is spent there. Even plants need to be chosen carefully, they need to be a part of the local fauna and able to survive in an arctic environment.

All this must be done in a sustainable manner, taking into account the fragility of the Arctic environment. While it might seem indestructible and strong, the arctic is very exposed to climate change.

Impact Architecture

Yet to LINK, sustainability is no longer about making the less bad choices but about maximizing the positive impact they may have. Focusing on six areas (climate-smart architecture, circular architecture, and interior architecture; biodiversity, health-promoting environments, secure environments, and living environments), the firm analyses the impact each construction will have in terms of sustainability. Much like investors analyse the impact an investment is likely to have, LINK analyses the positive impact a building is likely to have. They call this Impact Architecture.

As a guiding tool and a help along the way, LINK has even developed a particular tool, or compass, called LINK Kompass. LINK Kompass helps the client outline the shortest and most efficient way to achieve his or her sustainability goals in a project.

A prime example of a demanding architectural challenge is the new Svalbard College (Svalbard Folkehøgskole), situated right on the waterfront at Sjøskrenten in Svalbard, 78 degrees north. The school was opened by the Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre earlier this year. The generally harsh climate in Svalbard and the close proximity to the water made environmental considerations in this project particularly acute. LINK is, however, used to operating in Svalbard; the firm has worked here since the early 80s and is also behind the “Signs of Svalbard” illuminated information stands in Longyearbyen.

An all-Scandinavian firm

While their focus on impact makes LINK’s approach a particularly good fit for northern Norway, LINK is operative throughout Scandinavia. With 500 employees spread across offices in 15 cities in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway their outreach is considerable.

However, wherever they operate, their approach stands firm: Aesthetics and sustainability are both catered for, and distinguishable care for the environment and the local community is a common denominator everywhere they operate.

www.linkarkitektur.com

Facebook: @linkarkitektur

Instagram: @linkarkitektur

LinkedIn: @link-arkitektur-ab

Svalbard skiltstasjoner.

Photo: Lise Loktu

Flakstad skole. Photo: HundvenClements LINK Arkitektur Original

Hammerfest sykehus. Photo: Aesthetica Studio, LINK Arkitektur

Urban transformations

Liveability is a priority when an old mechanical workshop and shipyard is being turned into a new sustainable quarter with housing and offices in the middle of Fredrikstad. The architect et the office ALT. are looking at reus of a large dock to give the area a new identity.

In many Norwegian cities along the coast, harbours and adjourning areas formerly reserved for logistics, military and marine industry, are being transformed. With much of the industry moved elsewhere, city councils are keen to make new use of these areas that often have a prime location, centrally placed yet facing the water.

A prime example is the transformation of Fredrikstad Mekaniske Verksted (FMV), which ALT. is turning into a brand-new city quarter. FMV used to be one of the largest shipyards in the country. Some 2500 people went to work here every day in the 70s, making FMV very much the pulse that kept Fredrikstad alive. The architects at ALT. are treating that heritage with the utmost respect.

FMV was closed in 1987, but much of the structure is still there, including cranes

and large mechanical halls. The area has been closed off for the city´s residents but is now to be rediscovered. Soon, all of this will be given new life –even the dry dock, 290 metres long,

will be turned into a combined park with steps down to sea level, commercial areas and a parking structure and mobility centre, thereby helping to solve the area’s parking needs.

A step-by-step process

Now, one of the challenges for transforming the area into a liveable community is to design a step-by-step process

New use of an old dock. Photo: Ill 3destate and ALT.

The large dry dock. Photo: Einar Lunøe, ALT.

where history and new uses are integrated into the urban structure. These large structures are being used to create new urban spaces, while the industrial inheritance, which is very much a part of the city’s identity, is preserved. Along with new buildings, some of the old shipyard´s buildings will be used for co-working spaces, shops, cafés and art spaces. In the dock, there will also be a marina with a sauna and swimming pool. The temporary uses of the area will maintain the rough materiality and simple aesthetics of the shipyard areas.

To ensure that new buildings and areas are liveable and have a positive impact, architects at ALT. make sure to involve everybody concerned with or affected by the construction, in the planning process. The aim is to collect and map all available information about the area to understand both the negative and the positive issues related to a building or an area.

Planning the city floor

To develop a vibrant urban area, a lot of attention should be given to planning the urban spaces and ground floors of buildings. This is not just a matter of designing artful solutions but of implementing careful studies of how urban areas are used. Which corners is it important to activate with a shop or café, what should be accessible outside the housing entrance, how can playgrounds contribute to urban spaces and still feel safe?

All elements should be considered to facilitate both recreation and practical

needs, creating meeting spots that develop a social fabric among the inhabitants. A well-functioning neighbourhood will also be more attractive for visitors and establish a good framework for businesses in the area.

Social aspects

Social aspects have become more important. There is more participation from neighbourhoods in planning processes, and more focus on how buildings and urban environments create spaces where people can gather. Through democratic and open workshops, alt. has identified relevant functions and clarified how the plan can support several aspects of sustainability. A separate project for temporary use – “Fredrikstad Temporary Workshop” – ensures it will also be attractive to use the area before it is fully developed.

Identity is made important through reusing and recycling of materials and buildings. It is focused on soft traffic; pedestrians and bicycles and creating areas free of cars. Moreover, even though it is an urban landscape, biodiversity is as much an issue as it is elsewhere.

In cities, it is even more important to create new and preserve existing green spaces. To increase liveability, climate change must be taken into account – so that parks and green spaces reduce damage from rainwater, as well as improve air and temperature in the city.

www.alt.as

Facebook: @Alt Arkitektur AS Instagram: @alt.arkitektur

The bicycle department - Entry micromobility at the top flor in the dock, under the park. Photo: Ill. ALT.

Naval construction in the dock. 1976.

Local youth contribute to planning.

Photo: Einar Lunøe, ALT.

Agde Arkitektur: Preserving history by building around nature

In the Norwegian region of Agder, a small architectural firm called Agde Arkitektur works to create new spaces that will benefit their communities and last generations.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Agde Arkitektur

Agde Arkitektur, a small Norwegian trio of creatives, have set off on their architectural journey to give Norway and their hometowns new, exciting and flexible architecture that enhances the existing, sometimes overlooked, qualities of the building site.

“We believe that it’s important to adjust any new houses or architectural structures to the existing terrain, and not the other way around. By doing this, we can spare nature unnecessary disturbances and retain the beautiful, existing views,” says Krister Ingebretsen, Agde’s spatial planner.

Along with Ingebretsen, Agde’s small team consists of architects Frode Jerdal and Tom Arve Ås. All three of them have diverse experience within the architectural, spatial planning, and real estate development industries, with supplementary knowledge and experience bridging any gaps between the disciplines.

Agde’s understanding of not only the processes involved, but also local politics, allows them to carefully plan out and follow the projects every step of the way, from start to finish.“I think our broad perspective on problem-solving might be our biggest strength,” says Jerdal, adding: “Not

many smaller architectural firms have the same combination of architecture and regulatory planning that we do.”

Contributing positively to local communities

The collaboration at the heart of Agde began long before the company’s establishment, back when Ingebretsen and Jerdal were working for the same employer. “We collaborated on a few projects together and instantly hit it off. We began exchanging and sharing thoughts and bouncing ideas off each other,” says Ingebretsen.

Eventually, the two colleagues found that they didn’t agree with the developmental model that had been prominent in the region over the last 20 years, thinking there were alternative ways

When arriving from above, Hagåsen is initially hidden from view, leaving the area undisturbed.

of approaching landscape, nature, and how we build.

“We’re both from the Lister region and have a lot of love for our area. We’ve moved back home from the big city with knowledge and experience we’d like to apply to our community in our own way,” says Jerdal. “With our newfound appreciation, we want to retain and enhance the beautiful experience and surroundings while also creating new spaces for people to visit or live, with as little damage to nature as possible.”

Since their establishment in 2020, Agde have slowly but surely found their footing in their communities, participating in small and large projects alike.

Promoting landscape by building around nature

The Agde team is highly passionate about what they do, and value the constant pursuit of knowledge. “The two of us are engaged when it comes to the politics and philosophy around what we do, which is actually really important in order to continue to develop,” says Ingebretsen.

“The size of our company allows us to be flexible, forward-looking and problem-solving. It also means we’ve not tied ourselves down to one way of working, so we can be agile, look at the customer’s needs and wants, and design the process as well as the solution,” he adds. This is evident when observing their projects, which range from homes and cabins to transformation projects and office spaces, all of which have their own style

and personality. The one thing they all do have in common, however, is Agde’s long-lasting goal of elevating and contributing to the building or structure’s surrounding area.

One project of theirs that has gained a lot of traction for this philosophy is Hagåsen in Kirkehamn, a unique fixture planted amidst a hilly terrain. Hagåsen is initially hidden from view, leaving the area undisturbed. To visitors, however, it opens up and reveals its surrounding natural landscape, providing the most stunning of views. Another project the architects are particularly proud of is Sjoneviga, where they developed ten cabins in spectacular surroundings.

“Sjoneviga shows how we architecturally planned and structured the cabins and the area as a unit. It’s a project where we’ve applied and truly shown what we stand for through adapting to the terrain,

preservation of nature and interaction,” says Ingebretsen. “Wholeness and individuality, all at once.”

“For me, the biggest compliment is if people return from a stay in one of our projects and say they had a good experience, rather than that they thought the building looked nice,” says Jerdal. “A space’s ability to make you feel good is essential to our projects.”

To amplify the feeling of calm bestowed by nature, the architects fully utilise the surrounding landscape in their designs. As a result, everything is planned and drawn around the existing area, and not vice versa. “My goal as an architect is to be able to look back when I’m 70 years old and think that I’ve contributed in a positive way to how we plan and execute buildings in our region,” says Jerdal.

www.agde.no

In the design of Sjoneviga, the ten cabins and their surrounding landscape have been treated as a unit.

–on how to protect architecture and the values it reflects

By chairman of the board of Architects Sweden Emina Kovacic | Photo: Jonas Malmström

When we travel, we often choose —whether consciously or unconsciously — to visit well-designed architecture. We are drawn to buildings, interiors, plazas, waterfronts, and parks that stand out from the rest for their unique design, their refined proportions, or the richness of their materials and detailing, but also for the way they smell, the connection they give us to nature, or their charming historical milieu.

We are attracted by innovative contemporary living environments as well as older ones of cultural and historical interest. What they have in common almost invariably is that they are designed with high-quality architecture based on a strong idea that is rooted in human behaviour.

Sometimes, it can be hard to describe what it is that attracts us to these places—it’s the sum of many different parameters that stimulate the mind through all of our senses. Many of these places also have in common that they attract other people too, because we experience them as open, inviting, and democratic. They give us a deep sense of beauty.

In recent years, places all over the world have been assailed by the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the consequences of climate change such as fire, erosion, and flooding. These events have disrupted our travel patterns, but more importantly, they have reminded us that there are values we must continue to defend collectively.

Architecture and cultural historical environments are obvious targets in armed conflicts because of how linked they are with our identity and sense of belonging. Many cultural heritage sites are also threatened by extreme weather events driven by climate change.

If we want to keep travelling — to experience good architecture, precious natural environments, and innovative design in other parts of Europe and the rest of the world — we must continue to defend democracy and work together to reduce our impact on the climate. By taking on the consequences of climate change and standing up for free and open societies in our everyday lives, the world around us can flourish — and with it our creativity as well!

Emina Kovacic, chairman of the board, of Architects Sweden (Sveriges Arkitekter) on the value of architecture, its contribution to society and how to protect it – and the world around it.

Emina Kovacic, president of Architects Sweden (Sveriges Arkitekter).

Emina Kovacic, chairman of the board of Architects Sweden

155 Hotelrooms

87 Cabins

12 Boathousesuites

250 Boat berhts

Indoor swimmingarea

SPA, treatments & rituals

Fresh seafood & Grebbestadoysters

Wonderful nature right outside the door

Capacity for up to 800 conferenceparticipants

Magical moments by the sea at Tanumstrand SPA & Resort in Grebbestad the north westcoast of Sweden.

One hour with car from Trollhättan/Vänersborgs airport Right between Oslo and Gothenburg

Turning the future’s challenges into new possibilities

Whether it is rustic wood cabins reflecting a reverence for nature or an urban waterfront in an ode to brutalism, architecture firm Tengbom is dedicated to creating buildings that will enrich the lives of their inhabitants for decades to come.

By Signe Hansen

For all of our history, humans have settled by the water. We have valued the settlements originally for the ease of survival and the use of waterways for trade. In more modern times we are also recognising the more aesthetic and mental benefits of living in proximity to water; with waterfront properties being more sought after than ever.

This love of waterside living however presents some interesting challenges for the structures we choose to build,

especially when taking into account our modern challenges of sustainability, climate change and rising water levels. Tengbom, having been ranked as one of the world’s most innovative architectural firms by Fast Company, relishes the challenge and has developed many practical and aesthetic solutions. Founded in 1906, the company is known for its dedication to architecture that enriches the lives of its users, not just now, but for decades to come. We explore two very different projects that do just that, turn-

ing the challenges of building by the sea into creative possibilities and solutions.

Vidhave - a love letter to nature

The holiday houses at Vidhave, just outside Visby, are inspired by the small

To ensure the best views for all Tampen’s future residents, Tengbom designed an algorithm calculating the percentage of undisturbed views to select the best design from 10. Photo: Jansin & Hammarling

All the houses at Vidhave are designed with large windows, providing guests an undisturbed view of the sun setting over the Baltic Sea. Photo: vidhave.se

wooden cabins traditionally used by the fishermen of Gotland Island. Following the natural landscape of the coastal terrain and dotted into the native plantation, the cabins provide users with not just perfect, undisturbed views of the Baltic Sea, but also with a feeling of remoteness. An admirable achievement as the cabins are part of a large holiday and conference complex that will be able to accommodate up to 400 people.

“All the buildings have very large windows towards the water, and they are placed in a way that no building blocks the view of the one behind it.” explains architect Stefan Rydin. “But it also means that when walking between the buildings, you can always catch a glimpse of the water without feeling like you’re caught in a built environment.”

Constructed on concrete foundations and built with preserved solid wood logs, the houses are built to last for “more than a century”. Moreover, on top of the obvious environmental benefits of building in wood, a renewable and carbon neutral building material, the project has implemented other measures to face future and current environmental challenges. These include a large garage, built into the hillside to be invisible from all but above, covered in solar panels. Additionally each building has its own rainwater distribution system and a system to clean and reuse shower water. “We don’t see it as a challenge really; it is just a natural thing that we must take care of and that means a possibility to do something

different. For example, when it comes to the increase in heavy rainfall, we saw it as a possibility to create a new design feature, and regarding the concern about CO, it gave rise to the possibility of building in wood,” explains Rydin.

Tampen, an ode to brutalism

Built as an ode to brutalism, the concrete structure of the spectacular new Tampen residential complex on Varvsholmen in Kalmar, could hardly be more different from the Vidhave project. However, some of the core objectives are the same. One being a focus on undisturbed views of the spectacular surroundings. “The project is set on the last remaining undeveloped corner of an old shipping yard, and the first thing that struck me when I went there was that there was water everywhere,” explains architect Joao Pereira.

To make the most of the location his team created an algorithm to determine how much view each single window in all of the buildings provided. “The algorithm measured the total percentage of undisturbed views in ten different designs, and, in the end, we chose the design that allowed the best views,” Pereira says.

Apart from offering stunning views, the location, which quickly earned the complex the nickname “light tower”, also means it is very exposed to the elements. Of concern are the strong winds and high temperature differences between the seasons. To mitigate the effect of the wind, the blocks were placed in a way that enabled a solid building wall to

act as a windshield in the direction of the strongest winds. Moreover, the building developer’s wish to build in concrete to ensure the durability of the building, served as an inspiration for the architects to create what Pereira calls “an ode to brutalism”. This concrete also acts as a natural thermal battery for the structure.

It is a remarkable structure, with soft corners and a combination of raw concrete and marble mosaics, changing the experience of the viewer depending on the distance.

One final element, serving to ensure the durability of the building long term is the fact that the ground floor is not utilised for flats but for bicycle storage. This means that if water rises require the level of the site to be raised, the floor can be converted to a basement floor.

www.tengbom.se

Facebook: tengbom.se

Instagram: @tengbom

Photo: Jansin & Hammarling

The interiors of the Vidhave houses are painted with tempera paint produced using organic eggs and locally produced linseed oil. Photo: vidhave.se

Photo: vidhave.se

Established and expanding –Norconsult’s architects breaks ground

A global company with roots in Scandinavia, Norconsult has offices all over the world specializing in the building segment. Apart from expertise in areas such as community planning and engineering, Norconsult has an army of specialized architects making their Swedish division one of the biggest in the country.

By John Sempill | Photos: Jansin & Hammarling

“Norconsult has 1200 architects, engineers and environmental consultants within construction and real estate; infrastructure, architecture, energy, water and sewage; industry, environment and digitization,” Head of Architecture Jessica Eriksson tells us. “With roughly 200 employees in architecture, Norconsult is one of Sweden’s largest architectural hubs.”

Before starting a project, they make sure to bring in expertise from all of their different fields, even ahead of the first sketches. “This is what makes the Nor-

consult way of working so special,” Eriksson says. “There are few corporations with the same closeness as us – our architects have their desks close to acousticians as well as infrastructure engineers, to mention a few. We can put together a work group of experts very quickly.”

The emphasis is on the expertise – all in-house, ready to go. This is something they call ‘informed design’. “An acoustician might have an instant suggestion on how to work with urban sound planning when we try different placements for a

new school on a schoolyard”, Eriksson continues. “We have very early access to this type of vital information.”

By experimenting early on, they can eliminate potential miscalculations before the design process has gone too far. “We design by asking questions”, she explains. “We make sure our client is included in the process, taking the initial steps together for the best possible outcome. This gives us an important foundation and direction moving forward.”

Cross expertise

Being a global company, Norconsult is able to take advantage of a wide range of know-how. They use the expression ‘cross expertise’, which is a perfect way to describe the accumulated knowledge and cooperative skills across the company, for

Using wood gives a sense of warmth and genuineness.

any given project. “We have a lot of experience in cooperating in projects across cities, sometimes even across the Nordic countries, and can put together big teams if needed,” says Eriksson. “We’ll always make sure staff is close to the client for local meetings. With our expertise in all of our covered areas, we’re used to taking on vast and complex projects and general consultant assignments.”

Innovation

Norconsult’s mission is to create new perspectives and encourage a green transition by looking at ways of incorporating them in every construction project. “Our innovation process is based on well-proven methods developed and used by Norconsult Norway for large and complex projects since 2008” says Eriksson. “Our

innovation process has helped several of our clients aim higher and reach even further than their initial goals.”

An example could be a successful collaboration between several parties within a specific project, exceeding the planned ideas. “Other benefits include financial profit, clever technical solutions when it comes to sustainability and, additional social achievements,” she elaborates.

In a world of uncertainty, Norconsult is moving against the current. They are expanding their architecture divisions in several Norconsult offices; next in line is their office in Malmö, in southern Sweden. One of their expanding markets is in healthcare. Eriksson tells us that several exciting projects are on the horizon with hospital projects in different regions of the country. “And our expertise in communal bathhouses is also something we’ve developed over a long period of time. We recently opened Täby bathhouse and we have several ongoing bathhouse projects.”

A guiding light, or motto at Norconsult is: “Every day, we improve everyday life.” This means building a community: schools, healthcare, culture and places for human interactions. “We want to connect people who perhaps wouldn’t have met under other circumstances,” Eriksson says. “This is also socially sustainable for the future. To involve young and old, in buildings built for several purposes. You might be on your way to a martial arts course, and see a painting on the

wall, or have coffee in the cafeteria with a senior citizen.”

One such example is CIK, Centrum för Idrott och Kultur (Centre for Sports and Culture). This is one of Norconsult’s most extensive projects regarding cross-expertise. “CIK won the architectural prize European Property Awards in the category of Mixed-use Architecture,” Eriksson concludes. “It’s also one of Sweden’s largest passive houses, meaning it is very energy efficient.”

At the core of the company’s approach to architecture is finding solutions that contribute to sustainable development. “We explore ways to use less materials by giving them a double purpose. For example, a beautiful wooden panel is used in a way that also improves the acoustics. In CIK we used wood as much as possible, but where concrete was needed, we didn’t cover it with ‘more beautiful’ materials.”

norconsult.se

Facebook: @norconsultab

Instagram: @norconsultsverige

The art stage at CIK, a close collaboration between Norconsult’s acousticians and architects.

The ice hall CIK has a combined space for warming up and art exhibitions.

The staircase between the entrance halls at CIK, with sound-absorbing artwork on the walls.

CIK won the architecture prize, European Property Awards in the category of Mixed-use Architecture.

Jessica Eriksson, Head of Business Development Architecture at Norconsult. She has extensive experience as lead architect in a variety of projects and a master of architecture from the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm.

Erik Giudice Architects: Building for the future

A global firm with local awareness at its core, Erik Giudice Architects (EGA) creates modern architecture inspired by Scandinavian values and design. And, with sustainability, respect and human needs at the root of each idea, EGA is disrupting the industry and setting new standards.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Erik Giudice Architects

Showing consideration (and curiosity) for different environments and communities comes naturally for EGA’s founder Erik Giudice who spent his childhood split between France, Italy and Sweden. So, it’s hardly surprising that these values have also helped shape his professional ventures as an architect and entrepreneur.

In fact, EGA has made a name for itself as a master of finding solutions to complex problems. Simplexity, as Giudice calls

it, is an approach that can be applied to anything from a challenging location to technical prerequisites.

“As much as our designs are functional and made to solve problems, we always emphasise the location of where we’re building”, says Giudice. “The idea is to add something to what’s already there, improving over purely changing, and we always use local expertise to maintain that all-important link.”

Eco-conscious leaders

EGA also takes pride in its awareness of, and response to, ecological challenges which influence everything from the choice of materials to how that material is transported to site.

‘The right materials’, means the use of reusable construction elements and materials with a low carbon footprint. Wood, for instance, makes an appearance time and time again, inspired by Giudice’s early brush with the material during his apprenticeship in his uncle’s woodworking shop at 16. Wood is also easily accessible in Scandinavia, which has formed its architectural tradition.

As mentioned, the use of locally sourced materials for each project is also key to the firm’s success. This minimises not only transportation costs, but also carbon emissions. “Traditionally, buildings have been made with materials from the area – whatever was available,” explains

Grande Escale, nomad culture museum in Dakhla, Morocco.

High speed train station in Jönköping, Sweden.

Giudice, and adds “that’s why there are wooden houses in some areas and stone buildings in others. Now, the sector is returning to this, and it’s something we’ve helped accelerate.”

The word ‘flexible’ comes to mind; and, a flexible building can also be repurposed and even dismantled with ease when, and if, it’s time for deconstruction, and its parts used in new building projects. “The construction sector is reorganising

here,” says Giudice. “This hasn’t yet been systemised, but the market is different today and progress is being made. This is something we are at the forefront of.”

For Paris and beyond

Speaking of flexibility, EGA is heading up the athletes’ village for next summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, namely the eco-quarter in Ile-Saint Denis. And, unlike previous projects and Olympic Games, this athletes’ village has been designed for its future, post-event usage first and foremost, while the adaption to house athletes has been a secondary consideration.

The design uses modular components that will be easy to remove and reuse, making it easy to convert the buildings into office space and housing when the time comes – an approach which is ground-breaking and provides a new path for the construction industry towards a circular economy.

Another EGA project worthy of attention is a landmark office building in Stockholm currently in its planning phase. Staying true to what makes EGA what it is, this project will feature wooden frames and a façade covered in solar panels. The aim is to create a self-sufficient building when it comes to energy, a solution designed for the future and to inspire other projects too.

Indeed, building for the future is at the centre of all the firm’s projects. And there is more to be done, with upcoming projects including public buildings such as museums and concert halls. “They’ve been built a certain way for a long time,” Giudice says. “The overall shape has been worked on, but not so much the insides of cultural buildings; I think we can go further here.”

“As architects and builders, we must be able to optimise ecological aspects while also delivering appealing aesthetics. It’s about the design as a whole, made for the long-term,” tells Giudice. “And, it’s about adaptation, creating buildings that can be tweaked to cater for different purposes, like an ancient monastery in Venice turning into a modern university. We may not always know what the future holds, but we can always keep people and planet first and centre,” he concludes.

www.erikgiudice.com

Instagram: @ega_erikgiudice_architects

So Danish! The story of Danish architecture in one place

This year Copenhagen is named UNESCO World Capital Architecture. But why does Danish architecture look the way it does? And why do the Danish architects of today play such a prominent role in the global architecture scene? With the exhibition So Danish!, Danish Architecture Center (DAC) tells the story of Danish architecture through time.

By Danish Architecture Center

Architecture has always played a central role in Danish society, influencing the intellectual pursuits, cultural understanding, and common future of the Danes. However, the story of Danish architecture has continued to develop, and today there is almost as much to say about the future, as there is to be said of the past. So Danish! delves into both aspects and represents Denmark’s first national gallery of architecture

Since March 2023, visitors have been able to go on a journey through Denmark’s architectural history, from the Viking Age to today. Along it, they discover some of the elements that revolutionised Danish architecture, such as the brick. The technique was not Danish, and it was far from new, but when brick construction finally took hold in Europe

and Denmark in the 1100s, it marked the start of a new epoch of the Danish tradition. Since, the brick has defined the expression in Danish architecture right up to today.

From bricks to Arne Jacobsen and Jørn Utzon - when you visit the So Danish! exhibition, you will discover iconic masterpieces and lesser-known architecture that have defined Denmark. You will also gain insight into how a new generation of architects is helping to shape the sustainable society of the future. If you are visiting DAC, you might also want to visit the Copenhagen in Common exhibition. It tells the story of Copenhagen’s strong tradition of focusing on communities and public involvement.

www.dac.dk

Danish Arcitecture Center (DAC) is an international cultural attraction for anyone who wants to experience and understand how architecture and design create the framework for our lives. DAC is based in the heart of Copenhagen, by the inner harbour, in the spectacular building BLOX.

Copenhagen in Common: 4 May 2023 –25 February 2024

So Danish!: Permanent exhibition.

Danish Architecture Center (DAC)

Bryghuspladsen 10,1473 Copenhagen

Opening hours: 10am to 6pm daily, Thursdays until 9pm.

Danish Architecture Center in BLOX.

Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

The exhibition Copenhagen in Common celebrates all the Copenhagen architecture we share.

Photo: Astrid Maria Rasmussen

Give Jan Gehl’s chair a try.

Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

A tribute to Verner Panton.

Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

ARDESS: Creating homes for tomorrow’s world.

A visionary, independent Danish architecture firm is rethinking the future of home design, focusing their creativity and expertise on creating a new style of sustainable communal living. At the core of ARDESS is not just experience, passion, and attention to detail but also a true commitment to sustainability - designing long-lasting homes and creating with a genuine purpose.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: ARDESS

Sebastian Schroers, architect and founding partner, started the Aarhus-based company ARDESS seven years ago. Having worked for an ambitious international company, designing large-scale, complex buildings such as hospitals and museums, Sebastian has an extensive background in architecture, design, and culture. “It is important to feel passionate about what you do, and creating and sharing your vision,” he says. ‘It matters to us that our projects have something important to say, have a function, and are made to be used.”

ARDESS has helped many clients in Denmark create their dream homes over the years, and now they have an important new project that they are ready to unveil.

Shared communal living space for senior citizens.

“We started out creating smaller high-end buildings like summer houses or villas,” Sebastian explains. But at the complete opposite end of the building, architectural, and design spectrum, the firm’s architects now have their eyes set on creating an original and sustainable senior communal housing. The unique project has involved extensive research and analysis and has, says Schroers, been a hugely exciting challenge for team ARDESS. “The key has been to truly understand the project, and to combine aesthetics and vision. There are many more perimeters involved in a project like this, and we have to explain and defend our ideas at every turn,” he continues.

Cross laminated timber (CLT) is being optimised in accordance with statics and the use of the material.

The low weight results in a smaller foundation and a quicker assembly. All parts of the house can be taken apart and put back together.

There is a documented societal need for these types of homes, with years of anthropological and social research into how older people feel, and much market research into what they need in their day-to-day life.

A tried and tested solution to a tangible social issue

Architecture is often judged aesthetically, but it is no longer enough to be

just beautiful and/or useful. “We need to completely change our approach in order to be sustainable,” Schroers says. In bringing visions to life, ARDESS thus looks at all aspects of the process - the need, durability, and sustainability. The firm is not interested in ticking boxes; it has something vital to express and share with others. Talking about the senior communal living space created by ARDESS, Schroers explains: “We began the

project to see how innovative we could be in terms of sustainability.”

To do so, architects began by looking at authentic customer needs through in-depth research and anthropological studies. The leading idea arose from a market analysis made in Denmark, where developing sustainable and positive housing solutions for senior citizens has long been in focus. As the nation’s senior population is growing, there is an urgent need to look at viable options for housing and building types to meet the increasing demand and new needs. “Many elderly people feel lonely,” explains Schroers.

The next step was to look at the financial viability of the project, and how the building could be created in the most cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, careful research of the global warming potential of CO2 in the resources, materials, and building process was a crucial aspect of the planning considerations. “We have developed this as a business case from start to finish, and not just as an ambitious idealistic idea,” Schroers says. In other words, this is not only a vision that looks great on paper, but a con-

Villa S16

This applies to all the projects ARDESS works on. Alongside the vision for future communal homes, ARDESS continues to design and create projects for private, individual clients, creating family homes or summer houses, or making “once in a lifetime-houses” as Sebastian aptly describes them.

https://www.ardess.dk/

Instagram: @ardess_

Facebook: Ardess

LinkedIn: ARDESS Architecture & Design

ARDESS feels a responsibility as architects and creators of the homes of tomorrow, whether for private individuals or on a larger scale. This is the first time this exciting and original project is shared with the world, and ARDESS is ready to take it to the next level.

cept that has been tested, researched, and planned in such a way that it does what it set out to do. It is, says Schroer, “not just a good idea, but a durable and sustainable and achievable idea”

“We have carefully checked for weak points and the overall workability, to ensure that the building is useful and workable,” he continues. What ARDESS has created is a very real solution to a very real problem.”

Redefining what is aesthetically pleasing

In Schroers’ view, the social and societal challenges play a crucial part of the future role of architects; in other words, times have changed and the approach to architecture and the aesthetics and sustainability of buildings and homes must change with it. The quest is to find the exquisite elsewhere and to consider what it means to us today.

“This is not business as usual as we have to look at the materials and the methods, as well as the impact of what we are creating. We cannot continue doing things the ways in which we have been doing them, and as a result we need to find beauty in other things,” he says.

Villa S33

Villa S33

Repair, restore and repurpose –embracing a holistic approach to sustainable architecture

Avarrus is a Helsinki-based architectural firm, the passion of which is to design ecologically and aesthetically sustainable buildings and spaces. With an impressive portfolio and plenty of ambitious projects under their belt, their track record speaks for itself.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Avarrus Architects

Turning old horse stables into modern apartments and a 100-year-old warehouse building into a cool hotel - Avarrus Architects have earned themselves a reputation as masters of repurposing buildings and rethinking urban environments, while paying homage to traditional building methods. The company’s three partners – Pauli Siponen, Niilo Ikonen and Laura Karhunen – have a clear vision of what they want their office to represent: collaboration, high quality and sustainability.

“We want to promote sustainable building, and it’s at the core of all our projects. For us, this means using building materials and details that are as durable as possible. We plan a lot of renovation and repurposing projects, and believe that demolishing an existing building should always be the last option for a development project,” says Ikonen.

Avarrus has a strong team of 15 architects, interior architects and designers working on a range of areas: new buildings, challenging and ambitious renovation projects, versatile interior designs, urban planning, and unique small houses. The firm has designed private homes, hotels, apartment buildings, offices, school interiors and much more. “For us, quality starts with ambitious goals,

Helsingin Muurarimestari is a residential project where Avarrus has implemented traditional building methods. The brick structured building’s apartments are ventilated gravitationally.

In 2019, Avarrus won an urban development competition in the city of Vantaa. The new area includes a business hub, parking facilities and a hotel tower.

expertise and the courage to innovate and repurpose. We want to position ourselves at the forefront of developments in our field,” Ikonen states. Repurposing old buildings is one of Avarrus Architects’ specialties. The company has an extensive experience of researching and finding new applications for old, reliable construction techniques.

An example of Avarrus’ expertise in repurposing old structures includes a former warehouse. Built in 1928 and located in the Katajanokka harbour in Helsinki, it is currently being converted into a 223room Noli Studios hotel. “The building has had many uses throughout its history, and the distinctive red-bricked building is surrounded by other aesthetically impressive and culturally important buildings. The building’s proximity to the sea and views of the historic centre of Helsinki create a unique atmosphere, and our design pays homage to that,” says Siponen.

Traditional construction methods in a new building

A block of flats, located in Helsinki, has provided Avarrus Architects with the opportunity to create another ambitious project in which they have fully applied their know-how of combining modern architecture with traditional building methods. In the brick building, special emphasis has been paid to high-quality and stylish apartment design, which is reflected in the functionality of the floor plans in each apartment.

The building also has a gravity ventilation system to allow for a steady flow of air throughout the building. Indeed, everything from the building’s roof shape, the plastic-free interiors, the room di-

vision, and the openings of the building façade have been carefully considered in order to ensure sustainability, energy efficiency, good ventilation and comfort, while respecting traditional building methods. “The building’s brick structure and gravity ventilation represent naturally sustainable building solutions that have been used for centuries. We have been able to respect and implement these traditional building methods and combine them with the comforts of a modern home,” Siponen states.

Reimagining cities

A common feature in all Avarrus Architects’ projects is their approach to architecture - it’s about figuring out ways to improve life in urban environments. “This doesn’t just include a building’s users, but also the surrounding buildings and biodiversity. Our goal is to bring our values to a visible part of the city through projects and shake our industry towards more sustainable constructions,” Ikonen states.

This approach also shines through in the firm’s interior architecture, where creating functional spaces is key. The interiors support wellbeing at home, school and work and are intended to last for generations. Thus, they are created with sustainable materials and timeless designs. Combined with durable colour schemes, these serve to inspire young pupils in the school library or create a relaxing moment around the residential dinner table.

Overall, Avarrus’ experience in numerous renovation projects has refined their ability to find the balance between repairing, restoring and repurposing, and has enabled the use of traditional construction methods in new constructions.

“We see architectural sustainability as something that includes ecological sustainability, as well as social and aesthetic sustainability,” says Siponen and concludes: “We actively develop the sustainability of projects together with builders and other parties, so that our buildings can withstand the test of time and use. We want to shift the construction industry towards a more sustainable direction, both in our collaborative projects and through our own work.”

www.avarrus.fi

Facebook: AVARRUS Arkkitehdit Oy

Instagram: @avarrus

LinkedIn: Avarrus Architects

Avarrus was in charge of the interior design of the highly regarded Jätkäsaari School, designed by AOR architects. Photo: Anders Portman, Kuvio

Villa Kaaripoukama is a year-round log-framed vacation home on the shore of Lake Päijänne. Photo: Ville Vappula

The Punavuori Stables are former horse stables transformed into 18 award-winning apartments. Photo: Tuomas Uusheimo

A harmonious dialogue between wood and high-technology

Sunwall Woody is driven by curiosity and a deep desire to explore what wood, as a raw material, can do. Their products are an homage to the versatility of the organic material – with the addition of applying cutting-edge technology to it.

Sunwall Woody specialises in parametrically shaped structures for interior design and construction. Parametric design is a method in which design features are shaped based on algorithmic processes rather than direct manipulation. Sunwall Woody’s products are designed for both indoor as well as outdoor use, and the unique pieces can be tailored to clients’ needs using CNC machines.

“Our high-quality products are perfect especially for hotels and shopping centres, for example – but we are not afraid of challenges, and our know-how in design and architecture, alongside the use of cutting-edge technology, allows us to undertake projects involving the most innovative ideas and implement even complex structures,” says the company’s managing director, Tuula Halme.

The primary material used in the company’s creations is wood, but any material that can be modified with a CNC machine can be used. “Mixing wood with high technology creates a kind of playful harmony,” Halme says. The company offers customers an entire design package (if they want): from planning and designing the products to the creation and installation.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Sunwall Woody

“We are involved with as much or as little of the process as the client wants. Our architect can create unique pieces tailored for various purposes. The warmth of the material forms a perfect dialogue with the shapes cut to mathematical precision, creating fascinating results,” Halme concludes.

www.sunwallwoody.fi

Instagram: @sunwallwoody

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LinkedIn: Sunwall Woody

Hotel of the Month, Iceland

Hotel Klaustur: Experience the powerful tranquility of Iceland

Relax, breathe, and take in the beautiful Aurora Borealis and other magnificent sights of Iceland’s powerful nature with a stay at Hotel Klaustur.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Hotel Klaustur

Situated between two of Iceland’s most famous glaciers, the small town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, or ‘Klaustur’, presents a majestic sight. Indeed, it is not surprising that it is both the hometown of, and muse to, two of Iceland’s most famous artists, Kjarval and Erró. Surrounded by natural wonders such as the famous Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, Laki Crater, highlands and northern lights, Klaustur is a part of Katla UNESCO Global Geopark.

Despite its small size, Klaustur thus serves as an important crossroad and pit-stop to travellers who wish to explore the island.

“Almost fifty years ago, when the ring roads of Iceland opened, there was an increased interest among locals to explore the unknown territories they had previously been unable to access. With Klaustur being known for its natural beauty, it only made sense to establish a hotel that travellers could use as a base

while exploring the beautiful country,” says Sveinn Hreiðar Jensson, general manager at Hotel Klaustur.

Being one of the oldest hotels in the South of Iceland, Hotel Klaustur takes special pride in reliability and consistency.

“With almost five decades under our belt, visitors can expect the highest level of customer service,” says Jensson. “Our team consists of around 30 people, and every single one of us is striving to deliver service excellence, and to make guests feel at home no matter where they are from.”

Hotel Klaustur has recently undergone major renovations and is proud to present a setup that reflects the powerful, surrounding nature. The hotel does not only house 57 rooms for overnight stays, but also a most delectable cocktail bar and one of South Iceland’s best restaurants!

“Each morning, our head chef and head waiter go into the local nature to harvest wild herbs and ingredients for the meals of the day. Our bar manager, too, works with the local environments, colours and flavours to create the best drinks,” says Jensson.

He explains that sourcing resources locally, and generally supporting and working with the local village is very important to the hotel. Along with local activities, such as exploring the area with guided tours or enjoying the village’s heated pool, Hotel Klaustur guarantees a one-in-a-lifetime experience and stay.

www.hotelklaustur.is

Instagram: @hotel_klaustur_iceland

Facebook: Hótel Klaustur

Attraction of the Month, Finland

A Slice of the real Finland

Located just half an hour from Finland’s capital, Lohja provides much to those who wish to explore the landscape and culture of the country without travelling too far away from Helsinki. Indeed, Lohja is the perfect day trip destination, offering majestic lakes, quirky independent shops, and even the experience of a traditional Finnish sauna.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Visit Lohja

Jarkko Koskenmäki, the head of tourism for Lohja city, feels that Lohja is first and foremost a lake town. “Lohja is part of an area comprised of almost 200 lakes and bodies of water. It’s a truly unique place for tourists to explore and enjoy. We have a floating restaurant, Lauttaravintola Kaljaasi, wonderful views of the water, and enjoyable concerts given by the Lohja city orchestra. For history lovers, there are fantastic museums and some of the largest medieval churches in Finland, such as Pyhan Lauri Kirkko. Lohja is also the location of the childhood home of Elias Lönnrot, the linguist and folklorist who compiled the Finnish national epic, Kalevala.”

Koskenmäki feels that all seasons offer something exciting in Lohja. “In the summer, the city is filled with outdoor events

and theatre performances. These continue inside during the autumn. The forests and waters around Lohja are full of opportunities for mushroom and berry picking and fishing. In wintertime, several events are organised, including a traditional Christmas market.” There is also a Santa’s grotto for those travellers who are interested in having a true Santa experience in Finland.

For visitors wanting to experience an authentic part of Finland, Koskenmäki believes that Lohja is a real example of Finland in miniature. “Lohja is the image that many people have of Finland as the land of thousands of lakes. It also has an abundance of cultural offerings, including theatre groups and music ensembles. For accommodation, there are small, personable hotels or the luxury of Lohja Spa.”

For the future, Koskenmäki hopes that Lohja will continue to build upon its reputation as a popular tourist destination. “Lohja has convenient regular bus links to many towns and cities and is only a 30-minute drive by car from Helsinki city centre. Fast, efficient train travel is coming too. City guides and regional guided tours are also readily available. For a chance to get out of the big city and experience all the possibilities Finland has to offer, Lohja is the ideal place.”

www.mylohja.fi

www.visitlohja.fi

www.tytyrielamyskaivos.fi

The lakes around Lohja, Finland.

Lohja enjoys many concerts and festivals.

Art to enjoy in Lohja.

Attraction of the Month, Sweden

The mysterious world of fungi

Head over to the Nobel Prize Museum this autumn to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of fungi. Long in the making, this exhibition explores the use of fungi through art, design, science and even fashion, challenging our idea of what fungi really are and sparking ideas of what they can do.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Nobel Prize Museum

Much of fungi’s life takes place underground or in the air, out of sight. So, why have they fascinated people for centuries? Exhibition curator Karl-Johan Cottman believes that recent pop culture plays a part, but also lists their odd shape and characteristics as factors.

“Mushrooms pop up here and there and are very irregular,” he explains. “But there’s also an interesting juxtaposition in the sense that mushrooms, or fungi, have a negative sound to them, yet they taste good. Not to mention their psychedelic abilities”.

The exhibition aims to give visitors a look into current research around fungi and its organisers have partnered with various artists and scientists to give a range of perspectives. One of these is Maurizio Montalti, a bio-tech driven designer who explores how to develop new materials for a sustainable future.

“You’ll see some of his best work, including a mushroom-based coat in mycelium leather from a previous Balenciaga winter collection,” tells Cottman.

Furthermore, there’s Carsten Höller’s sculptural fly agarics and Anna Dumitriu and Alex May’s manipulated yeast. You’ll also find a monumental video installation from Marshmallow Laser Feast called Sanctuary of the Unseen Forest, which cleverly displays how the network of nutrients travel through a rainforest tree as well as the process of photosynthesis and its connection to all things living.

But why, you may wonder, have the Nobel Prize Museum as the scene for this exhibition? Well, fungi have had a recurring role in the award’s long history, with Fleming’s penicillin perhaps the bestknown occurrence. In fact, exhibition visitors will enjoy a peek into his ways of working; they are also invited into Nobel

Prize laureate Olga Tokarczuk’s literary world which is bursting with mushrooms.

Open to anyone who’s interested in new, creative ideas and enjoy being surprised, this exhibition is guaranteed to teach you something new about the humble mushroom.

“The more you learn, the more interesting they get,” concludes Cottman.

www.nobelprizemuseum.se

Instagram: @nobelprizemuseum

Exhibition Fungi – In Art and Science will take place at the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm from 30th September 2023 to 7th January 2024.

Dress designed by Daniel del Core. The dress was worn by the artist Björk at the release of her album “Fossora”. Photo: © Vidar Logi

Carsten Höller - Double Mushroom Vitrine (Forty-eightfold), 2021. ©CFHILL

© Nobel Media. Photo: Alexander Mahmoud

© Seana Gavin - Mindful Mushroom, 2017

Experience of the Month, Norway

Vestigården: Unique travel experiences in the heart of Norway

Nestled within the idyllic countryside of Lorvika in Steinkjer, you’ll find Vestigården. Here, in the heart of Norway, husband-and-wife team Elin Sofie Lorvik and Jo Kristian Kvernland invite you to enjoy a unique and peaceful getaway surrounded by the magnificent nature of Trøndelag.

By Maria Sødal Vole

Offering travellers the chance to “sleep like a bird”, The Birdhouse Cabin (Fuglekassehytta) is an extraordinary experience. Featuring a distinctive birdhouse design, the luxurious cabin is beautifully furnished with a cosy fireplace, sunken bathtub and everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. “The cabin is truly oneof-a-kind,” says Lorvik. “Our favourite thing is when the guests open the door and go ‘wow!’”

Partly drawn by Elin Sofie and Jo Kristian and designed by the Trondheim-based Rallar Architecture, the cabin was built using sustainable, locally sourced ma-

terials including wood from Steinkjer. The huge circular window offers panoramic views of Borgenfjorden and the surrounding area, which is well-known for its fantastic hiking and cycling opportunities. A delicious breakfast basket full of food from the Trøndelag area is delivered to your door in the morning, allowing you to sample the local Norwegian goodies while enjoying the view.

The cabin, which sleeps up to six people, has proved hugely popular with travellers from near and far, and has amassed rave reviews online. “It feels amazing when the hard work we’ve put into what

we do here is recognised by happy and satisfied guests,” Lorvik says. “We really enjoy being hosts and showing people this beautiful place!”

Alongside the spectacular overnight experiences, Vestigården also puts on a range of culinary and cultural events such as concerts, stand-up comedy, workshops and quizzes in their popup venue, Stabburet. The venue is well-known for the intimate Diners Table-concept, where hired chefs prepare a 9-course gourmet dinner for a small number of guests. Lorvik and Kvernland act as hosts for these exclusive dining experiences, offering their services as trained beer sommeliers and coffee baristas.

https://vestigarden.no/en/

Instagram: @fuglekassehytta

Facebook: Vestigarden

The signature large circular window provides panoramic views, and is the perfect spot for taking in the sights. Photo: Ellen Homstad

Fuglekassehytta’s luxury bathroom has everything you need for a relaxing spa experience. Photo: Maria Viktoria Solem

Photo: Vestigården

Vestigården serves only local food.

Photo: Ellen Homstad

Experience of the Month, Finland

A perfect blend of finnish culture and nature

Exploring Finland in any season is a magical experience. Though a popular tourist destination, the country still has many undisturbed areas, offering visitors a relaxing and singular holiday. Lakeland Bomba, or Nurmes, located in Northern Karelia, the eastern part of Finland, is such a destination. Peaceful, steeped in nature yet offering a haven of modern luxury, Lakeland Bomba holds delights for both local and international travellers.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Pielinen Karelia Development Center LTD PIKES

There is much to do in Lakeland Bomba for both families and individual travellers. Bomba’s strengths are its diversity; peace and closeness to nature combined with great activities and the amenities of modern life. “Although Bomba is a top destination in the Lakeland district of Finland, mass tourism has not overrun it,” says Siru Hirvonen, the international tourism specialist for the Karelia Development Centre, or PIKES.

Furthermore, according to Hirvonen Lakeland Bomba is an ideal place to visit throughout the year. “In the spring, the forest is waking up from hibernation, the summers are glorious with the scents of wildflowers. Local food is abundant in the autumn and exploring the region during the winter provides a most peace-

ful way to spend your day,” says Hirvonen adding: “Hiking is popular as is cycling,”.

The facilities offered in Lakeland Bomba are contemporary yet cosy. Sokos Hotel Bomba boasts one of the best spas in Finland, including a variety of saunas and outdoor Jacuzzis where you can enjoy the Northern Lights while having a soak. At Hyvärilä, the youth and holiday centre in the area, visitors can rent fat bikes to cycle on the lake ice in winter and well-maintained golf and frisbee golf courses in summer. On Lake Pielinen, the fourth largest lake in Finland, fishing trips can be arranged as well as tours of the region, accompanied by an experienced chef who creates gourmet food using local and seasonal products prepared on a campfire in the heart of nature. For a week of modern

luxury, Hirvonen suggests booking with Äksyt Ämmat. Through here, travellers can stay in an idyllic log house and experience Finnish culture, cuisine, skiing, and a husky safari, among other activities.

With three national parks, the historically valuable Karelian village Puu-Nurme, and an abundance of traditional food and culture, Lakeland Bomba is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the regional delights of Finland. Hirvonen says, “At the moment, the majority of tourists are domestic, but we really think Lakeland Bomba also offers much to international tourism. We welcome them with open arms to get to know our nature, culture, and warm Karelian people.”

Funded as part of the Union’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

www.Bomba.fi

www.Pikes.fi

Facebook: Lakeland Bomba

Instagram: Lakelandbomba

Spring with fatbikes.

A delicious autumn fish meal.

Autumnal paddling

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Mediterranean tapas and charcuteries -in Swedish

Just like Barcelona or Madrid, but in Stockholm. This is a perfect way to describe the tapas bar and restaurant Xarcuteria, right in the heart of of the capital city of Sweden.

By John Sempill | Photos: Xarcuteria

Founded by brothers Douglas and David Tikka in 2012, Xarcuteria brought the Mediterranean passion for food and drink to Stockholm. Growing up, the Tikkas travelled far and wide and quickly discovered the romantic way of life in southern Europe, prompting a dream of establishing something similar back home. Eventually, the idea for their restaurant was sparked. By what? A red kitchen utensil.

“We were at a bar in Spain, and saw a manual Berkel cutting machine,” cofounder Douglas reveals. “When we started talking about opening a restaurant 12-13 years ago, we wanted to get a red slicer. So we did.”

Today, Xarcuteria serves a wide range of tapas, charcuteries, cheeses and drinks. They also serve beer from local breweries in the local area. “We have a constantly evolving menu, and we are always

working on creating new dishes,” Douglas continues. “When you come back, we want you to find something new on the charcuterie and cheese pages, and also amongst the lists of wine and beer. This is an ongoing process.”

Speaking to the founders, they make putting together an exciting menu sound easy. You can sense their shared passion for mouth-watering cuisine. “We’ve had meals at holes in the wall and star restaurants around the world,” Douglas says. “Our inspiration comes from these food travels.”

When it comes to raw materials, they always look for the best. Most of it is sourced in Spain and Italy for a genuine experience, provided by true artisans and local producers. “We like to work with smaller family businesses in general”, he explains. “Smaller wine importers and importers of charcuteries. It gives a

more personal relationship. This is important to us.”

Expect a relaxed and familiar vibe while dining at Xarcuteria, with classics mixed with modern fusion tapas with their own flare and twist. “We want to offer a complete and warm experience, as if you’ve been on your own food journey”, Douglas concludes. “If you’ve booked a table, we’ll have personal name signs, instead of just a reserved sign. We always want to give a personal treatment.”

xarcuteria.se

Facebook: @xarcuteria2012

Instagram: @xarcuteria2012

Design Store of the Month, Iceland

An aesthetic fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian culture

It is widely known that Iceland is home to an abundance of natural beauty, but the island has a deep well of man-made beauty to explore too. Mikado, a curated interior design store located in the center of Reykjavik, provides carefully selected items with mindfulness in focus. The store opened in 2020 and has turned into a hub for enthusiastic design lovers, providing the perfect lifestyle products for a sophisticated home.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Mikado

What does the name ‘Mikado’ stand for?

”The name draws on many different influences - we wanted a name that embedded the various facets that we stand for, something that isn’t Icelandic nor English, yet easy to remember,” say Aron Heimisson and Einar Guðmundsson, the founders of the store. “Mikado means

emperor in Japanese, it’s the name of our favourite colour - mustard yellowand it’s also the name of a popular game played all over the world throughout many cultures. It’s easy to pronounce regardless of language, memorable and we think it represents who we are in a subtle, perfect way.”

Graphic design as entry point

The pair, who started out as graphic designers, were working in Lisbon when the idea for their own store arose. ”We moved from our home in Iceland to Lisbon for a change of scenery - and more sun - but decided it was time to return to our roots after a couple of years. We’ve been fascinated by the Japanese culture ever since art school and we’ve been passionate about design on a personal and professional level for as long as we can remember, and when we realised there was a big a gap in the Icelandic market for this segment of unique products, we decided to create something on our own; it’s been a dream of ours for a long time,” Einar says.

Mikado presents a carefully curated mix of lamps, furniture, prints and more influenced by Japanese and Scandinavian design cultures.

In 2020 Mikado opened, and since day one, the store had an incredible response with a devoted group of followers helping the concept grow and progress. “We recently moved to a new location where both new and old customers have found their way into our store - the physical one as well as online,” says Einar.

Japanese and Scandinavian influences Mikado provides a curated mix of refined brands, carefully selected in line with the shop’s well-established concept, Japanese and Scandinavian influences expressed in unique products made with profound care. Despite the geographical distance, there are a number of unifying attributes that link the two cultures tightly, says Aron. “Both the Scandinavian and the Japanese culture are defined by a minimalist modesty, proximity to nature, and a heavy emphasis on craftsmanship and widespread use of natural materials, wood and earthy colours.” He continues: “Japanese products are incredibly detailed - they have a profound story that stretches centuries back in history, often made by one family with an incredible attention to detail. They have a soothing effect on the environment and it’s a joy to work closely with these cultures through our products, to see how they elevate everyday living.”

Products selected with care

Mikado’s portfolio is full of handpicked products famous for craftsmanship and

quality, ranging from prints, vases, furniture, perfume, cloths, ceramics and much more. Frama, Wästberg, Hein Studio, Hima Jomo, Kettl Tea, Cinnamon Projects, Pigmentarium, Hasami Porcelain, AOIRO, are just a few of the brands presented in the store. Additionally, Le Labo, a renowned perfume brand, opened their first physical outlet in Iceland within Mikado, something Aron and Einar, who have been avid supporters for a long time, were extremely pleased with. The duo has also started producing blankets under the Mikado brand, made from Icelandic wool and produced in Reykjavik, with great success.

The prints on sale in Mikado are made by Einar and Aron as well as a number of Ice-

landic artists. “We work directly with the designers and we want to promote local talent on our island by bringing their skill into the melting pot of the Scandinavian and Japanese style,” the duo explains and concludes: “We are also looking forward to expanding the Mikado brand further - we started with blankets, but are looking into more products that we could create in line with our vision. We have the opportunity to shape something truly unique here and we will broaden our portfolio as we go - with a mindful, sophisticated harmony that brings a silent joy to the core of everyday life.”

www.mikado.store

Instagram: @mikado.reykjavik

Facebook: Mikado Reykjavík

The perfume Le Labo is part of Mikado’s premium brands selection.

Prints, vases and details.

The founders Einar and Aron.

Artist of the Month, Norway

Crafting beauty from clay and fire

Ceramics is both a craft and an art form. It can be utility objects like plates, cups and bowls, and it can also be sculptural pieces of art. Or even a combination of utility and art.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Linda Lid

Linda Lid started her ceramic journey in New Zealand in 1996. There are different types of clay and types of fuel used to burn it. While studying in New Zealand Lid fell in love with the wood firing technique. This has become quite a niche way to fire ceramics, so to learn more she had to move to either Japan or France. She decided on France. There she learnt to build and fire a range of different kilns and to create large jars on the wheel, from master throwers.

To keep this ancient skill alive, Linda passes on her knowledge through courses for Norwegian ceramists.

Precision and patience

Wood firing is a complex process, but the result is unique. “I get to express what I want with this method so well,” Lid says. “I can’t get that with others ways of firing”. To get the results she wants, the

four-cubic-meter-big kiln needs to be 1300°C. This takes three days, about 20 cubic meters of wood and a small team to watch and build the fire.

Depending on what type of wood is used, different minerals are released into the smoke and ashes, giving the ceramics different colours.

Stacking the kiln is an art in itself. During the firing process, fire flows through the stack of ceramics like a river, and leaves its traces on the clay. “The placement of each piece not only determines the final aesthetics of the pieces but is also crucial to reach top temperature,” Lid explains.

Nature at the core

Lid works with stoneware and porcelain, making everything from everyday objects like bowls and mugs to her signature pieces, large sculptural urns. “I am

inspired by the deep emotional bond between humans (people) and nature,” Lid says. “I want my work to evoke feelings and remind us of this connection, not just when looking at the pieces, but also when touching them.”

Lid uses very little glaze on her ceramics. She adds some on utility items, on the inside and the edges for contrast. The wood firing process provides its own natural ash glaze, with a distinguished look and feel.

lindalidkeramikk.no

Facebook: @lindalidkeramikk

Instagram: @lindalidceramics

Large urn with natural ash glaze.

Porcelain bottles with natural ash glaze.

The urns are so big they are thrown in two pieces and assembled before firing.

Lid firing the kiln.

Beauty Clinic of the Month, Norway

Vanitas: Beauty and wellness through knowledge

With headquarters based in Ås and two more clinics in Jessheim and Vensmoen, Norway, Vanitas seeks to help people feel and look better through ethical, accurate and knowledgeable means, offering everything from skin- to migraine treatments.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Vanitas

Though the definition of “beautiful” has changed with time and varies across borders, historically, good looks have been a virtue in most cultures. Vanity and the desire to appear one’s best is just part of human nature, and in the small town of Ås, Norway, there’s a clinic that works to help people do exactly that.

“Vanitas is our way of making small, but significant changes that improve people’s everyday lives,” says Frode Molund Haugen, founder of Vanitas.

“As a clinic that offers injections, it’s very important that people feel safe, comfortable and heard when they come to us. Our customers can expect our hon-

esty, and that we always have their best interest in mind,” says Svein Morten Aune, Haugen’s husband, who runs the clinic alongside him.

Along with cosmetic nurse Maria Schoberg, the two of them represent Vanitas, clinics that put specialisation, safety and knowledge above all else.

Safety through knowledge

Haugen originally became a nurse because he wanted to help others feel good, but soon realised that he needed a less rigid daily routine. “I branched into psychiatry, but it was quite a heavy road. When I tried to think of ways I could continue to help people, use my creativity, and estab-

lish a workspace where I could continue to grow, I found that a beauty and wellness clinic was the right path for me,” he says.

After studying and pursuing the right qualifications, Haugen was finally ready to start his new career. “The first few years, I had to bounce other jobs alongside running the clinic. It was necessary to make it work, especially back when the topic of injections and skin treatments was still somewhat taboo. In addition, I’m a man in a female-dominated industry, but over time and with hard work, we’ve established a loyal and happy clientele,” says Haugen.

Haugen and Aune credit their success to the team’s constant pursuit of knowledge, saying that though they are qualified, they continue to stay updated on the field’s new findings, attend courses nationally and internationally, and seek out better and more modern alternatives.

Offering a number services including fillers, wrinkle injections and migraine treatments, Vanitas aims to make people feel good in their own skin.

Schoberg is a Trained Restylane Injector, while Haugen and Aune are Trained Restylane Masters, which is a title carried by those few who have achieved the highest level of expertise within the Restylane treatment possible in Norway, requiring several years of experience under their belt.

“Vanitas’ motto ‘knowledge through safety’ is something we stand by, and it is the reason we have excellent nurses and a doctor behind us. It’s an important safety net for the customers,” says Haugen.

“It’s the reason we don’t expand more than we need to,” adds Aune. “We want to specialise and be excellent at a few things, rather than be mediocre at a lot of things just for the sake of money.”

Aune explains that this means that they do not offer traditional skincare like a skin care clinic might do, but instead col-

laborate with skincare clinics across Viken and Oslo to provide the services they excel at so people everywhere can get the best results possible.

Promoting happiness in one’s own skin

Nowadays, the perception of beauty almost changes with the seasons, especially under the influence of social media where a new trend or insecurity springs to life every other week. Haugen explains that the team at Vanitas has no interest in making changes that don’t stand the test of time.

“We’re not a clinic that will pump full the lips of young, unknowing girls or make life-altering physical changes - it’s not what we stand for,” says Haugen. “We help people feel better in their own, existing skin, whether that’s by helping them get rid of physical insecurities such as scars or skin damage or unseen problems such as headaches.”

“Many people who have been exposed to sun or have spent a lot of their years often ask us to help them with their skin. The treatments aren’t excessive or over the top, but they make a difference in their everyday lives, and help people find happiness in their own skin, and that’s what we want,” says Aune.

Hauge adds that sometimes, people just want to look the age they feel, and that’s completely okay too. “No matter what they come to us for, we make sure that our patients receive plenty of information before, during, and after their treatments, alongside good and consistent follow-up,” he says.

www.vanitas.no

Facebook: VANITAS – klinikken for deg Instagram: @vanitas_klinikken

Treatments:

- Filler

- Wrinkle treatment (botox)

- Skin booster

- DermaPen

- Sunekos

- PRX-T33

- Profhilo

- Thread lifts

- Cryopen

- Nucleofill

- Migraine and headache treatment

- Treatment against excessive sweating

Maria. Frode. Svein Morten.

A house dedicated to dance

The conceptually unique Dance House Helsinki is a long-awaited milestone in the history of Finnish performing arts. The building, dedicated to dance, now offers a world-class setting for performances from Finnish and international artists alike.

By Ndéla Faye

The opening of Dance House Helsinki, or in Finnish ‘Tanssin talo’ literally meaning ‘the house of dance’, has been a long-awaited event. “Its opening was the culmination of dreams that had been years in the making. It’s a remarkable milestone in Finland’s history of performing arts and a way for dance to anchor itself even deeper in its position in the country’s cultural landscape,” says Saara Oranen, Dance House Helsinki’s communication manager.

Dance House Helsinki was designed by JKMM Architects and ILO Architects. Its architecture was inspired by dance, and visually, the building plays with illusions of lightness and heaviness, which is perhaps most apparent in the building’s façades, where large steel walls hover above the ground, almost as if they are defying gravity. The building’s industrial aesthetic also reads almost like a big,

modern dance machine, which is connected to part of an old factory, Helsinki’s Cable Factory, which is home to other cultural spaces and performers.

The technical capacity of the space enables the stages to be modified according

to the needs of different kinds of events and productions, including large international productions and contemporary circus performances. “The Erkko Hall auditorium can host up to 700 people, and the Pannu Hall auditorium can house 235 people. It is unique in itself that there is such a large performance space designed with dance in focus,” says Oranen.

Bringing dance and audience together

On an international level, the opening of the house is notable as well as the building strengthens Helsinki’s position as one of the most exciting dance cities in Northern Europe.

The main aim of Dance House Helsinki is to make dance more available and approachable to a large audience, and already there is reason to be proud in this respect. In the short amount of time since its opening, showcasing dance in a versatile way has been achieved through a broad spectrum of shows. “When we say we are a house for all dance, we really mean it: there are dance competitions,

Photo: Hannu Rytky

circus shows for the whole family, performances by renowned artists as well as hobbyists, for example,” Oranen says.

Popular performances so far have included, among others, Full Moon, the iconic masterpiece by the late Pina Bausch, a multimedia performance, Tree of Codes, by choreographer Wayne McGregor, produced by the Helsinki Festival, as well as a rare visit to Finland by the renowned Lyon Opera Ballet.

The numerous dance groups and artists who have taken to the stage have showcased the breadth of Finnish talent too: from original productions to muchloved classics and re-performances. The house is also open to organisers of a wide variety of events and happenings, such as concerts, film festivals and private events.

“The architecturally interesting building is worth a visit even on its own, and it has just been nominated for the 2023 Finlandia Prize for Architecture. We connect the audience and dance by pre-

senting

dance in a variety of ways. We make dance available to as many people as possible, which we hope will keep on promoting and increasing interest in dance culture and strengthen the status and appreciation of dance. This is why

what we do here is remarkable,” Oranen concludes.

www.tanssintalo.fi

Instagram: @tanssintalo

Facebook: Tanssin talo

Popular performances have included, among others, a rare visit to Finland by the renowned Lyon Opera Ballet. Photo: Agathe Poupeney

In September 2023, Belgian choreographer Jan Martens’ work any attempt will end in crushed bodies and shattered bones was performed at Dance House Helsinki. Photo: Phile Deprez

The architecturally interesting building has just been nominated for the 2023 Finlandia Prize for Architecture. Photo: Tuomas Uusiheimo

Dancer Auri Ahola in front of an audience.

Photo: Tero Saarinen Company / Noora Geagea

Best new Scandi music in October

Swedish artist Zikai is out with the latest installment of her 2023 comeback, returning with Summer 16. It’s the rose-tinted recollection of a perfect summer seven years ago. And as she pines for yesteryear, she invites us to gaze back longingly with her, thanks to an endearingly breezy, winsome production that you can’t help but get swept along by.

One of Finland’s premier popstars SANNI has released a brand-new tune for us to collectively fall for. On Mielenmaisemat she offers up a lush soundscape that forms the backdrop to some irresistibly melodic melancholia. The song is so intrinsically Nordic, it sounds almost folk-like in the way it is performed – with a chorus so sing-along, it will have you cursing your lack of a grasp on the Finnish language, if applicable!

Swedish artist LÉON is back with her first new music since the release of her Circles

album 18 months ago. On Pretty Boy we get that rare luxury in pop music for the streaming age – a song that allows itself the freedom to go on for almost four minutes in length! Four minutes of dreamy synth stylings with LÉON’s much-missed vocals back in our lives.

You Do You is the latest single from Danish artist ELBA. Starting off unassumingly enough, by the end of it you come to the realisation that what you’ve just listened to is quite the explosive little pop tune. “I’m a kaleidoscopic clusterfucking mix of it all” trills ELBA – being gracious enough to evidently extend this ideology to her new single.

In 2023, Norway’s Dagny has already released two of her finest songs of her oeuvre to date… Let’s have another one, shall we?! New single Ray-Bans is a bittersweet breakup anthem that intertwines pain-laden lyr-

Monthly Illustration A view from the sky

It is really hard to return to the UK after a summer in Scandinavia. Sure, from above Britain looks very pretty. Flying in over the Scottish mountains is not too bad, I suppose, BUT...once you land all you see is run-down buildings, potholes in every road and rubbish on the streets. It is difficult when you have spent your summer in an insanely clean space like Sweden where a hole in the street is considered an emergency and littering is a serious crime.

It always takes me about a week to get back into UK mode. I walk around growling and moaning about the state of our home. I shout at the kids. I feel overwhelmed by the endless rain. I complain about the unhealthy snacks. Everything feels very, very difficult and nobody suffers like I do.

But then suddenly, as I sulkingly wander the streets, avoiding the potholes, some-

one says hi to me. Someone stops to chat. Someone helps me out with the kids. Someone makes a joke and I laugh. And oh, that’s right. This is why I live here. People talk to you. People offer to help you. People make fun of you, but in a nice way.

So perhaps it is not the state of the place that bothers me really. Perhaps it is the transi-

By Karl Batterbee

ics with an infectiously catchy melody. It’s a pairing that’s perhaps self-aware enough to compare itself to the style of country music –with a country-esque twang even making an appearance towards the end of the song. A highly enjoyable listen to unwrap.

www.scandipop.co.uk

By Gabi Froden

tion. And everyone struggles with transitions. Not just me. And I know that next time I go to Sweden, I will be like: Oh I don’t like returning to Sweden. Nobody talks to you, or offers to help you, or makes a joke.

Basically, I am never happy and living between two places is difficult. Perhaps when I feel overwhelmed, instead of visiting different places I should take my holiday up in the sky. You can’t get annoyed by a view.

Gabi Froden is a Swedish illustrator and writer, living in Glasgow with her husband and two children. Her children’s and YA books are published in Sweden by Bonnier Carlsen and Natur&Kultur. www.gabifroden.com

Scandinavian Culture Calendar

–Where to go, what to see?

It ’s all happening here!

By Hanna Heiskanen

Göteborg Opera: Wicked (until 24 April 2024)

You don’t have to leave the region to see world class musical theatre worthy of Broadway or the West End. This season, the Göteborg Opera is staging the largest ever production of Wicked, which is celebrating 20 years on the stage in 2023 and tells a story that predates the MGM musical The Wizard of Oz. While the production is in Swedish, you can also follow the English surtitles.

Christina Nilssons gata, Gothenburg opera.se

Wicked at the Göteborg Opera.

Photo: Lennart Sjöberg

CODA Oslo International Dance Festival (12 to 21 October)

The CODA Oslo International Dance Festival returns for its 21st edition this year, with an exciting programme that promises workshops, lectures, brunch talks and, of course, dance performances. Choreographers include the Finns Sonya Lindfors and Janina Rajakangas, the Brit Claire Cunningham and the Norwegian Anne Golberg Stavn. We also can’t wait for the club night with DJ Adipop! Venues around Oslo codadancefest.no

Rays of Light: One Peace at a Time (6 October to 5 November)

As the Northern nights draw in, we all need a bit of extra light in our lives. The Lights event in Alingsås near Gothenburg is a collaboration between lighting designers and students, coming together in workshops to create the annual display. Lights received the first prize at the 2022 [d]arc awards in London. This year’s theme is ‘Peace’. Guided tours of the installations are available. locations in central Alingsås lightsinalingsas.se

Jessie Kleemann: Running Time (until 26 November)

The relationship between Greenland and Denmark has never been straightforward. Artist Jessie Kleemann investigates these connections in a solo exhibition at the National Gallery of Denmark. Kleemann uses traditional Inuit as well as contemporary Greenland objects in her practice to explore climate change, politics and identity.

Sølvgade 48-50, Copenhagen smk.dk

Yrjö Kukkapuro — Magic Room (until

28 January 2024)

All Nordic countries have a track record for design excellence. One of Finland’s big hitters is Yrjö Kukkapuro, who has been celebrating his 90th birthday this year. Kukkapuro is especially well known for his playful take on furniture design, and his Magic Room exhibition at EMMA — Espoo Museum of Modern Art is the perfect opportunity to get an overview of his long career. The museum is a short metro ride away from central Helsinki.

Ahertajantie

5, Espoo emmamuseum.fi

Ryoji Ikeda: data-verse 1 (2019). Photo: Ryoji Ikeda Studio

Jessie Kleemann: Running Time (2023). Photo: Christian Brems

Ryoji Ikeda (until 25 February 2024)

What do you get by combining maths, sound and light? An immersive experience at Amos Rex, an underground exhibition space that can take credit for hosting some of the most popular contemporary art exhibitions in Helsinki in the past few years. Ryoji Ikeda’s first solo show in Finland uses data from NASA, The Human Genome Project and other sources as foundations for his installations. It’s bound to be another hit, so book your ticket in advance!

Mannerheimintie 22–24, Helsinki amosrex.fi

Malin Wallin: Barnens Lights (2021). Photo: Patrik Gunnar Helin

Yrjö Kukkapuro: Magic Room.

Photo: Paula Virta / EMMA –Espoo Museum of Modern Art

Scan Magazine Issue 159

October 2023

Published 10.2023

ISSN 1757-9589

Published by Scan Client Publishing Print H2 Print

Executive Editor Thomas Winther

Creative Director

Mads E. Petersen

Editor

Signe Hansen

Copy-editor Vera Winther

Graphic Designer

Mercedes Moulia Cover Photo BIG/Finbarr Fallon

Contributors

Celina Tran

Molly Mcpharlin

Nina Bressler

Linda Thompson

Maria Sødal Vole

Ndela Faye

Hanna Magrethe Enger

John Sempill

Emma Rödin

Japleen Kaur

Eva-Kristin Pedersen

Gabi Froden

Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

Karl Batterbee

Hanna Heiskanen

Åsa Hedvig Aaberge

OIiver Hugemark

Karin Blak

Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin

Sales & Key Account Managers

Emma Fabritius Nørregaard

Johan Enelycke

Veronica Rafteseth

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Ryoji Ikeda: data-verse 1 (2019).

Photo: Ryoji Ikeda and Audemars Piguet

Kallbad

Cold bathing - that Scandinavian winter tradition.

*Hard to describe the exhilarating feeling of a balmy sauna and brisk ocean. But its an experience like no other. Come and kallbad with us.