Scan Magazine, Issue 171, October 2024

Editor’s Note

Dear Reader,

The inspiring World Architecture Festival will take place in Singapore later this year, with a theme centred around design for tomorrow. I have actually just come back from Singapore, a trip unrelated to the festival, and what a fantastic city this is to visit. I was fascinated by the high-rise buildings with gardens incorporated, the smooth and modern infrastructure and public transport, and the beer culture – including the world’s highest urban microbrewery, on the 33rd floor of one building (which naturally had to be visited during the trip).

Scandinavia has some incredibly innovative and forward-thinking architects too, designing cutting-edge solutions for multi-generational communities, creating spaces that encourage human connection, and above all leading green building practices for a more sustainable future, as seen in our special theme this month. Don’t miss this, there are some extraordinary architectural projects underway in Scandinavia!

Another hit in this fully-packed issue is a feature on the upcoming Danish TV series Familier som Vores, which centres around a

scenario where Denmark is facing rising sea levels and eventually has to be evacuated. The series, directed by award-winning filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg, is a must-see love story, for loved ones and your country, that explores what it means to say goodbye.

Another must is cinnamon buns. Celebrated on Cinnamon Bun Day on 4 October, this delicious treat, which is also featured in our food column this month, goes fabulously with coffee. Did you know that 79 per cent of the Swedish population drinks coffee regularly? Coffee culture is massively important in Sweden and the country has a long and proud café tradition. Check out our rich and roasty feature which also debunks some coffee myths.

But first, grab a cup of coffee and a cinnamon bun, they will go nicely with our October issue!

Malin Norman, Editor

SCAN MAGAZINE

In this issue

DESIGN

8 Wall art, pre-loved goods and cabin dreams

On our design pages, we provide some inspiration for your home with beautiful wall art. We also feature one of Northern Europe’s premier destinations for authentic, pre-loved luxury goods, and we explore cabin dreams.

LIFESTYLE AND FOOD

16 Cinnamon buns and pubs as social hubs

This month’s food column is a tasty one. Sofia Nordgren bakes delicious cinnamon buns, perfect to bring on outdoor adventures or to enjoy at home. And beer sommelier Malin Norman attempts to take two on the importance of pubs.

SPECIAL FEATURE

18 Swedish coffee culture

In this feature, we explore Swedish coffee culture, types of coffee drinkers, and myths debunked. In a country steeped in a proud café tradition, coffee is an integral part of everyday life.

MINI THEME

27 Norway's leading companies in health & welfare technology

In an everchanging world of technology, we take a look at innovative solutions including an app that helps people regulate their stress levels, and innovative digital solutions for people with developmental disabilities.

SPECIAL THEME

36 Annual Nordic architecture and interior design special

Introducing our annual architecture theme, we talk to the director of the World Architecture Festival. This year’s festival theme explores tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities in architecture and interior design.

MINI THEME

66 Guide to Tromsø

For experiences off the beaten track, look no further than this guide in which we serve up unforgettable experiences and gastronomic delights.

MINI THEME

72 Guide to Lofoten

The Lofoten archipelago is one of the most interesting parts of Norway. Here, a new hotel concept has opened its doors and a museum is dedicated to preserving and conveying the history of Hurtigruten.

SPECIAL FEATURE

104 New climate crisis blockbuster TV series

The much-anticipated Familier som Vores premieres in Denmark in October. We take a look behind the scenes and find out how the TV series was born.

CULTURE

108 The best new events, film and music in Scandinavia

In this month’s Culture Calendar, we look into the best events in the Nordics. Music columnist Karl Batterbee explores new releases, film enthusiast Anders Lorenzen highlights the strength and diversity of Nordic film and TV at the BFI London Film Festival, and illustrator Gabi Froden misses the cycling way of life.

Fashion Diary

As we approach the height of autumn, October promises shorter days and colder temperatures. Whether you’re staying indoors or venturing outside, make sure to wrap up and stay cosy while looking fabulous with these stylish pieces.

By Celina Tran | Press photos

Soft Goat – Brushed cardigan

Made out of 100 per cent cashmere, this cardigan feels like a luxurious blanket. A regular fit, it drapes comfortably around the shoulders and can be tied with a cashmere belt. It will keep you warm and happy all autumn long.

Brushed cardigan, 5,670 NOK www.softgoat.com

Saks Potts – Aiden jacket in chestnut

Although not yet completely Arctic, October is still a far cry from the summer heat. Make sure to wrap up with Saks Potts’ Aiden jacket, a quilted piece that is both practical and sophisticated. An homage to traditional country and hunting wear, this jacket is light, comfortable, and perfect for both autumn and spring.

Aiden jacket in chestnut, 520 EUR www.sakspotts.com

H2O Fagerholt – Lulu pants in coffee brown

October is the season of dry branches and rustling leaves, so why not adhere to the autumn palette we love so much with these Lulu pants? Made from lamb leather, they’re soft to the touch, high quality, and practical with many pockets and utility straps.

Lulu pants in coffee brown, 535 EUR www.h2ofagerholt.com

Stine Goya – Long sleeve top with fixed buckle in jet black

Stine Goya knows all about elegance. This beautifully draped long sleeve top is perfect for a cocktail bar or perhaps to elevate your office look. With an asymmetrical hem and a boat neckline, it stands out despite the minimalist shape and colour. Pair it with a comfortable suit pant or satin skirt and black heels, and you’ll be on the receiving end of compliments all night.

Long sleeve top with fixed buckle in jet black, 190 EUR eu.stinegoya.com

Henrik Vibskov Boutique – Stitch jumper in fall mix

Danish designer Henrik Vibskov puts the c in cool. Combining the soft, moody palette of autumn with urban designs, the Stitch jumper from his Daily Chewing Gum Therapy studio collection will keep you warm while looking fresh.

Stitch jumper in fall mix, 493 GBP www.henrikvibskovboutique.com

Bergans – Lysebu wool henly

All this talk of throwovers, cardigans, and wool sweaters, it’s important to also remember the base layers. Norwegian brand Bergans might be best known for its outdoor clothing, but the merino wool Lysebu henly shirt is also a must-have. It supports temperature regulation for both cooling and warming and can be used on its own or as a base layer.

Lysebu wool henly, 100 EUR www.bergans.com

Susan Fosse – Alvøen men’s cardigan in white

As the year takes a turn for colder and darker days, now is the time to invest in a proper Norwegian knit piece to keep you cosy until spring. Susan Fosse’s Alvøen cardigan is inspired by a traditional fisherman’s sweater and can be layered for a cool, Nordic look. Alvøen men’s cardigan in white, 2,490 NOK www.susanfosse.com

Tova - Baatar Eco in natural brown

Make sure you have a good pair of slippers for those days by the fireplace in the cabin. The Baatar wool slippers are modelled after our natural foot shape, encouraging increased blood circulation. The slippers come in a variety of colours, but the natural brown seems fitting for the season.

Batar Eco in natural brown, 1,500 NOK www.tovashop.no

We Love This: October 2024

While it might not be the first thing you think of when moving, wall art can make a house or an apartment into a home. Take inspiration for your space from these beautiful pieces of wall art.

By Celina Tran | Press photos

As Much As One Can Swallow by Rory Mitchell (2021)

Perhaps best described as a satirical piece with a child-like spirit, As Much As One Can Swallow by Norway-based Rory Mitchell portrays a crammed group of people sailing across the sea in a rusty bucket. Despite the lack of space, they find themselves lost in their own worlds – a piece of escapism against a world of restlessness, upheaval, and worsening weather. Available as digital print, this affordable piece is bound to be a conversation starter. Just when you think you’ve seen all, another fun element pops out.

As Much As One Can Swallow Print (2021), 350 NOK www.rorymitchell.com

Woman With Poppy (2022) by Susanne Butcher

Susanne Butcher is a Danish painter who experiments with colours and motifs to explore human interactions. Woman with Poppy is an homage to love and portrays a woman who has lost her son to World War I. In all its abstract and colourful form, the painting is soaked with emotion, revealing more of itself to the viewer as time passes.

Woman With Poppy (2022) painting, 23,000 DKK www.susannebutcher.dk

Lovegun (2022) by Dani André Skogfelt

For lovers of minimalism, Dani André Skogfelt’s black-and-white pieces are perfect. Lovegun features large, soft strokes and a woman’s face, and can elevate any Scandinavian living room with its simplicity and texture.

Lovgun (2022) fine art drawing on paper 1,977 USD www.daniandreskogfelt.com

Under certain circumstances II (2015) by Yrjö Edelmann

Swedish artist Yrjö Edelmann often created pieces that were located somewhere between dream and reality, deluding the viewer’s eye with a highly realistic optical illusion – a classic trompe l'œil piece. Under certain circumstances II is a classic Edelmann piece, namely an illustration of wrinkled wrapping paper. The impressive light and shading could trick any passing viewer without much notice, but upon further inspection, you’ll find a carefully created, hyper-realistic piece.

Under certain circumstances II (2015), 650 EUR www.artsper.com

The Kiss (2018) by Edvarda Braanaas

Inspired by an infamous Gustav Klimt painting of the same title, The Kiss by Edvarda Branaas blends a 70s paisley-esque design with the classic kiss. The incorporation of both two and three-dimensional elements creates a feeling of timelessness, moving while standing perfectly still. This is not just a piece for hopeless romantics and Klimt lovers, but also for those looking to find a new, favourite contemporary artist.

The Kiss (2018) medium print, 9,000 NOK www.edvarda.store

Untitled (Girl Spinning) (2020) by Mikael Siirilä

Mikael Siirilä is a Finnish darkroom artist and photographer based in Helsinki. He only works with black and white film and the darkroom, which is also evident in Untitled (Girl Spinning). Themes like absence and presence often make themselves evident in his spall photos, as seen in this piece. Look long enough, and you might find yourself spinning too. Either way, this art print is a beautiful conversation piece, and perhaps the beginning of a large Siirilä collection.

Untitled (Girl Spinning) (2020) fine art print, 320 EUR www.shop.mikaelsiirila.fi

From pre-loved to re-loved

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki, this family-owned business has quickly become one of Northern Europe’s premier destinations for authentic, pre-loved luxury goods, offering a personalised shopping experience that embraces slow fashion and sustainability.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Luxury Helsinki

Since its founding in 2019, this family-owned business in central Helsinki has emerged as one of Northern Europe’s leading and most respected marketplaces for pre-owned luxury goods. Specialising in authentic designer handbags, watches, and accessories, Luxury Helsinki offers a wide range of high-end products from renowned brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes.

“The availability of luxury brands is limited in Finland. For example, only Louis Vuitton has a store in the country. We have established ourselves as the go-to place for other luxury brands, where they are readily available in our showroom or online,” explains Mia Siltala-Stellberg, the company’s CEO.

The showroom is located in central Helsinki, a short walk from Esplanadi, and it has extended opening hours Thursdays and Fridays, offering both walk-in ap-

pointments and bookings. With a commitment to providing a personalised shopping experience, the business also dispatches items worldwide, ensuring that clients across the globe can access the curated selection.

Waitlist and personal shopping

Luxury Helsinki offers two main services to help clients find their desired items. The first is a waitlist service, where clients receive updates when a specific item becomes available. “We don’t actively search for the item, but will notify our clients if it comes into stock,” Siltala-Stellberg says.

The second service is more proactive: a personal shopping service. Clients provide details of the item they seek, and the team taps into its extensive network to locate it. “We offer excellent personalised service tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our networks around the globe allow us to source a wide variety of luxury brands and items,” she adds.

Embracing slow fashion

A core value of the business is advocating slow fashion, which emphasises sustainability and longevity in fashion choices. “We believe that fashion should stand the test of time, and we fully embrace circularity,” says Heidi Siltala, the company’s growth and development manager. “Many of our clients buy a preloved luxury item from us, and when they want to update their collection, they sell it back to us and purchase another preloved item.”

By extending the lifespan of luxury items, Luxury Helsinki aims to reduce pollution and waste, minimise its carbon footprint, and eliminate the need for additional environmental resources. “Finding a new home for a much-loved item is our goal. Pre-loved goods are a better choice for the planet and people,” Siltala says.

An investment for the future

Recognising that buying exclusive items is also an investment, Luxury Helsinki offers a Bag Spa service, where luxury handbags are carefully examined and treated to restore them to their original glory. This

service further supports the company’s commitment to sustainability by helping clients maintain their items and extend the lifespan. “Taking good care of the items we own means that they can be enjoyed for longer. Investing in high-quality items is an investment and their value increases over time, so looking after them is essential,” the manager says.

In addition to bags, the company also boast Finland’s largest selection of women’s pre-loved luxury watches. “We have a wide range of luxury watches, and the principle is the same as for our bags: we have a selection available in our showroom, and we can also source and/ or find a home for pre-loved items,” Siltala-Stellberg explains.

With new arrivals daily, the company provides a unique shopping experience tailored to the needs of its discerning clientele. The CEO concludes; “Whether you’re looking to sell a beloved item or finally purchase that dream handbag, Luxury Helsinki is a secure, trusted service, and we are committed to finding the perfect match for your next cherished item.”

www.luxuryhelsinki.fi

Instagram: @luxuryhelsinki

TikTok: luxuryhelsinki

60 years of Norwegian craftsmanship and cabin dreams

In Norway, a cabin is a second home to many, a familiar escape from everyday life to serene surroundings and a safe space. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Rindalshytter stands as a testament not only to the timeless appeal of cabin life, but also the longstanding and traditional symbol of quality Norwegian cabin manufacturing.

By Celina Tran

While perhaps not familiar to those outside of Norway, the concept of the cabin dream is a real goal for many Norwegians. A home away from home, the cabin is supposed to be a safe space to which people can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a lot of care and thought goes into this space.

For six decades now, Rindalshytter has been creating people’s dream cabins. With unique, functional and beautiful structures, it’s no wonder that its cabins can be found scattered across Norway’s most famous cabin destinations, including Hafjell, Trysil, Hemsedal, Geilo and more.

Six decades of care and craftsmanship

As one of the first and leading producers of leisure homes in Norway, Rindalshytter owes its success to a few basic prin-

ciples; solidity, predictability, and security. These ideas have been the same since Emil Gåsvand founded the company in 1964, determined that all its cabins would stand the test of time.

“My father had always been interested in cabins, but there was also unemployment in the family. Motivated by the need to create a workplace for more people, he decided to pursue his passion and establish Rindalshytter,” says Hege Gåsvand, general manager at Rindalshytter.

“As we move into the future, it’s important that we continue to create cabins and leisure homes that won’t go out of fashion. We don’t follow fleeting trends, but rather work on modern structures that will be as appealing in the future as they are today.”

Initially, the company focused on traditional timber cabins, and over time also started adopting timber framing into

Photo: Rindalshytter

Photo: Kim Ramberghaug

cabins. As the team at Rindalshytter continues developing its style and architecture for a more modern customer, it makes sure to retain the very best of craftsmanship and tradition that has created numerous dream cabins for 60 years.

Bespoke cabins and leisure homes

While the company has standard models for customers to pick from, these serve more as a guide. Sales manager Tore Heggem explains that Rindalshytter does not produce generic prefabricated cabins, but bespoke cabins tailored to customers’ specific needs, as well as the unique characteristics of the site. You can choose from traditional hand-crafted log cabins to modern wood-framed holiday homes, with various roof options, including wood, turf, or slate.

“It’s important to us that our customers are happy with and proud of the work we deliver, which is why we work closely with them to ensure a good customer experience throughout the whole process,” says Heggem. “Furthermore, our cabins have their own, special touch,” adds Gåsvand. “We work closely with architects throughout the whole process to ensure that each cabin is the perfect fit for our clients, and that we deliver a product we can be proud of.”

A hallmark of Rindalshytter’s cabins is the use of high-quality materials. For example, the timber used in its log and stave cabins is hand-crafted at

the Rindal factory. For non-log cabins, the company primarily uses royal-impregnated wood for roofs and exterior walls, treated with linseed oil to provide exceptional rot resistance and reduce maintenance needs. “Modern cabins differ slightly from traditional ones in the way that there are larger windowpanes, inviting the great outdoors inside,” explains Heggem. “When we build cabins, it’s crucial to make the cabin look nice on its own, but also against the space it inhabits.”

Building a cabin is a dream for many, and Rindalshytter is dedicated to making that dream a reality. With extensive experience and knowledge of planning and construction process, this team is wellequipped to deliver your dream cabin, whether as a building kit or as a fully finished product. Rindalshytter doesn’t just build cabins, it builds dreams.

www.rindalshytter.no

Facebook: Rindalshytter

Instagram: @rindalshytter

Born from a collaboration with Snøhetta, Rindalshytter’s Gapahuk combines tradition with innovation. Photo: THT Foto

Designed by Ole Petter Wullum, the Lysthus cabin has large window panels that bring the great outdoors inside.

Photo: Lediard Foto AS

Timber cabin from Rindalshytter – Norwegian tradition at its best. Photo: Ferst Media

50 years of making cabin dreams come true

Over the past 50 years, Ranahytta has built high-quality, comfortable cabins adapted to the Norwegian climate. With a thorough appreciation for building tradition, passion for excellent woodworking and dedication to helping customers create the holiday home of their dreams, Ranahytta is one of Norway’s best cabin manufacturers.

It’s no secret that cabin life is well-loved across Norway. “Norwegians have long traditions of going to the mountains, forest and fjords to enjoy what nature has to offer,” says Randi Melinda Urskog, marketing executive at Ranahytta. “Spending time in your own cabin provides a sense of peace like nothing else.”

Ranahytta offers a wide range of modern cabin models in different sizes and designs that can be tailored to customer’s individual needs and requirements. “Our system is based on standard components which are effective in the building process and give customers plenty of flexibility to adapt the cabin to their wishes,” Urskog explains. Featuring well-tested and effective solutions, the popular cabins guarantee a high standard of comfort and functionality.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Ranahytta’s parent company, Bernhard Olsen Eiendom. With its extensive experience and long history of proud building traditions, the company has earned a solid

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Ranahytta

reputation as a professional cabin provider characterised by quality, stability and continuity. The well-respected company is known for building solidly constructed cabins with high-quality materials suited to the Norwegian climate and landscape. “Most people choose their cabin with the hope of creating a vacation spot their family can enjoy for generations,” says Urskog. “Our cabins are built by people, for people.”

www.ranahytta.no  Facebook: Ranahytta Instagram: @ranahytta

Cinnamon rolls

As we transition into the fall and winter months, I start longing for warm and comforting soups and stews. I wrap myself in cosy knits, light candles and drink a lot more tea. I spend hours in the forest, enjoying the cold and crisp air, and the fall colour palette on the trees. And when the snow comes, so does the season for cross-country skiing, red cheeks and the building of snowmen. To be ready for these everyday adventures, I make sure to fill the freezer with cinnamon buns. Not only are they my personal favourite when it comes to baked goods, they are also perfect to bring with you when going outdoors during the autumn and winter season. Or to enjoy at home, with a cup of coffee or tea, some candles and the autumn rain pouring down outside the window.

By Sofia Nordgren

Ingredients:

50 g fresh yeast

150 g vegan margarine

500 ml plant milk

45 g caster sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cardamom

840 g all-purpose flour

Filling:

150 g vegan margarine, room tempered

45 g caster sugar (more if you like)

2 tbsp ground cinnamon

Topping:

Plant milk for brushing

Pearl sugar, sugar or chopped almonds to sprinkle

Instruction:

1. Melt the margarine and add the plant milk. Let cool until 37°C.

2. Crumble the yeast in a big baking bowl.

3. Add the lukewarm margarine mixture to the bowl and stir until the yeast is completely dissolved.

4. Add sugar, salt, cardamom and about 2/3 of the flour.

5. Stir together until well combined and keep working the dough for about 5 minutes. Add more flour as needed, but make sure to save about 1-2 dl for later.

6. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 45 minutes.

7. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the ingredients.

8. Divide the dough into two parts. Roll out the first piece into a large rectangle (30 x 50 cm). Spread half the filling on top of the rectangle.

9. Now, fold the dough so that you have two layers. Then, cut out long strips of dough, about 1-2 cm wide. Twist each strip into a knot-like shape and hide the ends under the knot.

10. Put the buns on parchment paper (or in liners) and repeat the twisting step with the remaining dough (and then the second piece).

11. Cover your buns with a cloth and let rise for about 30 minutes.

12. Meanwhile, heat the oven to 250°C (480°F).

13. Brush your buns with plant milk and sprinkle with pearl sugar, sugar or chopped almonds.

14. Bake for about 10 minutes in the middle of the oven (depending on the size and your oven). Keep an eye on the buns as they burn easily.

15. Let cool on a tray and then enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Winner of the best Regional Cookbook at the Guild of Food Writers Awards 2022, Sofia Nordgren lives with her family in a small town in Sweden, working as a photographer, content creator and plant-based cookbook author. Cooking and baking have always been a hobby of hers and on top of that, she has a passion for nature, gardening and slow, seasonal living. Foggy mornings, cinnamon buns, and playing with her kids are among her favourite things in life. Sofia Nordgren also runs the successful blog, The Nordic Kitchen.

The importance of pubs, take two

By Malin Norman

It’s October and you might expect me to highlight Oktoberfest and Festbier, Märzen and other delicious German lagers. Or perhaps you think I’m going to praise pumpkin beer (the only beer I truly can’t stand). Nope, I’m not going to do that. Instead, this is my take two on raising awareness of pubs as social hubs.

In February 2020, I wrote about pubs and how they can help tackle loneliness and social isolation. Oh, the irony of publishing such a piece just before the pandemic hit and the whole world closed down. Ah well, I was not wrong and I think most people, when forced into lockdown, realised that local pubs are fantastic places for companionship, friendship and support. A place where everyone knows your name, etcetera.

Pubs are intended as social institutions and some organise quiz nights and live music, some host beer tastings and foodie events for the local community, and there are even beer running clubs for those who want to enjoy some physical

activity before heading to their favourite watering hole for a refreshing pint.

But what I love about pubs is much more than the social activities. You can also come on your own, sit down at a table with a book, a newspaper or a laptop. Nobody will bat an eye if you order a coffee, a beer or another beverage of your choice.

If you want, you can enjoy some quiet, solitary time, watch people pass by or sneakily listen in on conversations. Or if you feel chatty, you can just drop a question to the people at the next table. A favourite conversation opener of mine is simply asking what they’re drinking and if it’s any good, and then you’re off – without

it implying anything more than a bit of casual, social interaction over a beer.

Malin Norman is a Certified Cicerone®, a certified beer sommelier, an international beer judge and a member of the British Guild of Beer Writers.

Photo: Luca Bravo via Unsplash

Photo: Löfbergs

Coffee for the masses: Swedish coffee culture, types of coffee drinkers, and myths debunked

Coffee is massively important in Sweden, where people drink coffee as if it was water. In fact, 79 per cent drink coffee regularly, according to the Coffee Report 2024. In a country steeped in a proud café tradition with delicacies such as cinnamon buns and seven types of cookies, coffee is an integral part of everyday life – perhaps to counteract all those sweet treats.

By Malin Norman

Sweden has a top-class coffee culture and a strong café tradition, ranging from traditional patisseries to too-cool-forschool craft coffee bars and modern coffee shop chains such as Waynes, Espresso House and Bröd&Salt. Similar to the British pub culture where you can find a pub around every corner, in Sweden, you will find a place to sit down for a coffee and a cinnamon bun, or another treat of your choice, almost wherever you go.

Earlier this year, the coffee roaster Löfbergs presented its Coffee Report 2024, which maps the coffee drinking habits of the Swedish population. Findings show that 4 out of 5 Swedes drink coffee regularly. Drip coffee rules amongst preferred types of coffee with 72 per cent, and 2 out of 3 people say that the morning coffee is their favourite. Interestingly, according to the report, Swedes learn to drink coffee from their mother and 20 per cent start drinking coffee at the age of 14 or younger.

on saucer or with cheese

How Swedes have preferred to drink their coffee has varied over time. In the 18th century, people actually drank coffee from a saucer, a custom that lasted until the 1960s. Some Swedish readers might remember their parents or grandparents slurping coffee from a saucer. It is believed that the steaming hot, boiled coffee cooled down faster if it was poured onto a saucer.

Eventually, it became popular to drink coffee with a cube of sugar between the teeth. Oh yes, this was long before sugar was known as the big, bad enemy to our health. Coffee was still sipped from a saucer, and then strained through a cube of sugar.

Another coffee tradition is coffee with a splash of alcohol, often moonshine, added. In some parts of Sweden, egg coffee is a thing. In other parts, they devour cheese coffee – where cubes of cheese are added

to the cup of steaming coffee to transform into moist and soft cheese sponges.

Lately, everyone and their mother seems to be adding the plant-based Oatly oat drink to their coffee, a Swedish brand that has seen immense international success.

Cinnamon buns and tasty treats

On 4 October, Swedes celebrate the country’s most loved pastry, the spiral-shaped cinnamon bun. Back in 1999, Kaeth Gardestedt came up with the idea for the Cinnamon Bun Day and a delicious new tradition was born. According to the Association of Swedish Bakers & Confectioners, the country’s population eats a whopping nine million cinnamon buns on Cinnamon Bun Day. Filled with butter, sugar and cinnamon, these sweet and moreish treats go perfectly with a cup of coffee.

Coffee is closely associated with cinnamon buns as well as seven types of

Coffee

Photo: Löfbergs

Photo:

cookies. At the end of the 19th century, the term kafferep was established. This was a private gathering of ladies, who were served seven kinds of cookies. This tradition is currently undergoing a revival and Swedes are again baking for instance melt-in-the-mouth dreams (drömmar), chocolate slices (chokladsnittar), and nut biscuits (nötkakor).

Other Swedish classics to have with your coffee in Sweden include the irresistible princess cake, the mouthwatering mazarin (a small almond tart covered with thin icing), and delicious vanilla hearts. All elevated by the roasted character and the bitterness of the coffee.

Debunking myths about coffee

Another major Swedish coffee roaster, Zoega, debunks the myths about coffee on its website. The most long-lived myth is that the flavour of coffee is affected by where you live and the tap water available. However, the flavour actually has more to do with the dosage, the coffee maker used, and how often you descale the coffee maker.

Many people also believe that there is more caffeine in espresso than drip coffee. The truth is that how much caffeine you consume depends on how much coffee you actually use when you brew your cup, not the type of coffee you make. If you

use the same amount of ground coffee for an espresso as for a cup of drip coffee, the amount of caffeine will be the same.

Other myths include the effect that coffee has on the body; some say that coffee is diuretic and others that it is dehydrating. None of this is true means Zoega, as drinking the same amount of water will have a similar effect on the body.

Another often discussed topic is how to store your coffee. Zoega recommends

keeping coffee in the original packaging in a container placed in the fridge. The quality of coffee will decrease when in contact with oxygen, as is the case with many other products. So keep your coffee in a cool, dark place in a closed container (a stylish one is preferable, of course).

Newbie, traditional or connoisseur

The Swedish supermarket chain ICA explores different types of coffee drinkers in a recent feature. Not surprisingly, the newbie prefers a weak brew with heaps of milk and sugar, whilst the creator is a big fan of cool coffee content on Instagram and lots of added good-looking calories – the more the merrier.

As can be expected, the traditional coffee drinker prefers a medium roast for their brew, and the sleepyhead needs a quick and easy fix with capsules at the push of a button in the morning – or perhaps a breakfast combo consisting of overnight oats steeped in coffee.

And last but not least, the connoisseur takes great care when grinding the beans and to no end experimenting with different types of roasts and coffee makers –only the best is good enough.

Which type of coffee drinker are you?

Photo: Löfbergs

Photo: Tina Stafrén/imagebank.sweden.se

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1. Blurry, 2. West Coast, 3. AI, 4. Build, 5. Oohlala, 6. Usable, 7. Smart, 8. Call, 9. Boid

Natural ingredients for healthier body and skin

MARIA ÅKERBERG is the brand that has helped redefine what a skincare brand can be and the idea of what good body care entails. From its founding in 1995, it’s been part of the changing roadmap for customers who demand less chemicals, more sustainable alternatives and knowledge about what they put on their bodies. After nearly 30 years of trailblazing the market for skincare, makeup and haircare, this brand knows exactly how to extract the power of nature for a healthier, happier and more luminous you.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: MARIA ÅKERBERG

MARIA ÅKERBERG is about a holistic approach towards our health and how that entwines with what we put on our skin, in our hair and into our bodies. ”Stuffing ourselves with waste and products of poor quality will simply generate more waste and dissatisfactory results in the short and long run,” says Maria Åkerberg, founder and CEO of MARIA ÅKERBERG. “Instead, we need to ask ourselves: what do our bodies truly need to look and feel good? All parts of our body are made up of several layers and functions 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.”

Maria Åkerberg

A new perspective on skincare In 1995, when Åkerberg embarked on her journey, things looked very different from today: skincare brands didn’t list their ingredients and most options consisted of synthetic chemicals without any natural connection. Her interest in natural skincare and vision to pave the way for a new kind of industry started early – Åkerberg’s grandmother instilled a curiosity about natural remedies and she often made her own concoctions in the kitchen while growing up. ”My grandmother was a big inspiration: she cared deeply about self-care and created her own creams and mixtures with pure ingredients. I’ve infused her ethos into my brand, using the natural functions of plants and transferring these qualities to our products that will work wonders on your skin,” says Åkerberg.

Vitamins, antioxidants, salts, lactic acids and natural preservatives are distilled from plants that are oftentimes found in

nature that surrounds us; red clover, nettle, juniper berry, horse-chestnut, honey, beeswax, algae, clay, sunflower oil and much more are used for well-researched combinations that provide remedies with real effects. Åkerberg's philosophy is simple yet solid – it’s all about providing products that aid the skin to help itself with ingredients that nourish, moisturise and restore its natural protective barrier.

Small team equals greater impact

All business activities take place in the factory in the small town of Frillesås on the west coast of Sweden – from development, administration and testing to warehouse and production. Keeping everything under one roof makes quick decisions and innovation easier. ”We’re a group of tight-knit experts who care

deeply about our products and about developing new solutions that will benefit our customers. And we’re small compared to the big skincare brands out there, which makes us more flexible to test new ideas,” says Åkerberg.

The team’s work has been awarded numerous times: several products have been nominated, and won, the Product of the Year category in the Organic Beauty Awards. The natural and flexible philosophy has also enabled the brand to become world-first with unique beauty treatments: one includes a treatment that consists of living stem cells from roseroot, offered in salons and provides improved resilience of the skin. The stem cells help kickstart the skin’s own reparation process and will leave an imme-

diately smoother, clearer and brighter complexion, that improves over time.

The hair, body and face range

The portfolio ranges from facial, hair, body, and baby care to makeup and men’s shaving products. Bestsellers include the Scalp Treatment Rosemary that has become a viral hit on social media with thousands of testimonials witnessing its near magical ability to thicken the hair and leaving it healthier and smoother than before. The Face Lotion More is another favourite for mature skin with red clover extract that will create a regenerating as well as moisturising effect – a bestseller that’s been around for more than 20 years.

The team launches new products on a regular basis and is always on the lookout for new formulae that enhance well-being and provide real results. ”When I came into the business, I wanted to make a difference and show that nature can provide the same, if not better, 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 prove the point: nature is our greatest ally and if we utilise our abundant resources with intelligence and consideration, 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

Championing disability rights and accessibility to new technologies

Since 2006, Ridderne has worked with people with developmental disabilities. The organisation advocates for greater equality, independence, and quality of life for some of the most vulnerable groups in society through innovative digital solutions.

By Maria Sødal Vole

From his experience working with people with developmental disabilities, Lars Ole Bolneset saw a worrying lack of knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting people receiving care in those delivering services to them, among their caretakers and in the individuals themselves. “It was clear that we needed to improve the care offered and build a better framework,” he says.

Central to the organisation’s work is the belief that every human being should be treated with care and respect, and should be given the tools to communicate and cope better. For instance, Ridderne has provided content development assistance to TryggGrunn, a company using VR technology in training healthcare personnel and caregivers. Its technology enables immersive simulations, offering a realistic environment to practice procedures and decision-making skills. Trygg-Grunn helps improve patient outcomes and safety, with tools for both mental and physical health interventions.

Ridderne is also contributing to the expansion of Swedish project DigiJag, with an accessible digital environment for people with cognitive impairments. The solution is being tested in Norway by tech consultancy Useit under the name DigiMeg. People with developmental disabilities are testing the practical use with excellent feedback.

Bolneset highlights the many technological advancements in the field by parents and caretakers of people with developmental disabilities. The digital tool KnowMe was developed by Morten Hope, a father of a non-speaking child. KnowMe supports non-speaking people who express themselves through body language, sounds and eye contact. The tool makes it possible for caretakers to understand their needs. Caretakers and treatment providers can input videos, images and text describing how the person communicates and make the information accessible in KnowMe.

Featuring a digital platform and an app, the communication system Pletly was founded by parents of children with special needs. Pletly simplifies the process of sharing information and updates, building a bridge between healthcare professionals and caretakers to improve relations and quality of care. Serving caregivers across Scandinavia and the U.S., Pletly is collaborating on a project with researchers from the University of Pennsylvania to refine their solutions.

Since 2020, Ridderne has arranged a conference devoted to sharing knowledge about technology to support people with developmental disabilities. The MTEK conference is a meeting point between those providing technological solutions related to health and welfare and those in need of them. “Seeing the good that new technologies can do for individual users is wonderful, they can bring a lot of joy and empowerment,” says Bolneset. “People will surprise you with how much they can do if they get the opportunity”

www.ridderne.no

Contact: lars.ole@ridderne.no

Pletly provides personalised care for people with autism and developmental disabilities. Photo: Pletly

Trygg-Grunn offers user-friendly and adaptable solutions for healthcare personnel and caretakers.

Photo: Trygg-Grunn

With the accessible tool KnowMe, it’s easier for caregivers to understand Amalie’s needs.

Photo: KnowMe

Pioneering service offering genetic testing for tailored cancer treatment

Around 35,000 Norwegians are diagnosed with cancer every year. Oncogene is the only private laboratory in Norway offering digital DNA sequencing of cancer cells and other mutations creating autoimmune diseases. Shining a light on the role genetic heritage plays in providing effective, tailored treatments for each patient, Oncogene believes precision medicine is the way forward.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Oncogene

Oncogene is located on the outskirts of the historic city of Lillestrøm. Dating back almost 25 years, Kunnskapsbyen Lillestrøm (Lillestrøm Centre of Expertise) is a unique development association focused on building bridges between science and industry with the goal of fostering innovation and sustainable growth. Oncogene is based in Kunnskapsbyens Hus at Forskningsparken Kjeller, which is one of Norway’s largest communities dedicated to research and knowledge development.

The vibrant park is host to a variety of enterprises within the fields of health, science, technology and environmentally friendly business development. “We’re happy to be working alongside others in

the field of medicine, technology and innovation,” says Oncogene’s president and CEO, Morten Duesund. “The research park is the home of some of Norway’s pioneers, carrying out important research and working with cutting-edge technologies.”

Morten Duesund, CEO

The innovative company is the only Norway-based service offering DNA sequencing for cancer patients, developing tailored solutions based on each patient’s individual genetics to offer better, more precise treatments and assist clinicians. “Our driving force is the patients we help,” Duesund says. He shares the story of a female patient who was told she had only a few months to live but was cleared of cancer after receiving targeted treatment informed by sequencing. “What we do saves lives – we can provide information that makes it possible for the patients and their doctors to make the best decisions for their health.”

New

hope in the field of cancer treatment

Cancer treatment often takes a onesize-fits-all approach once the type of cancer has been identified. The standard treatment for most cancers is chemotherapy, where all cells are targeted in the hope that the cancer cells will be eradicated. “Chemotherapy is powerful, but also hard on the body,” Duesund explains. “By identifying exactly what type

of cancer and mutation the patient has, we can identify the exact amount and type of chemotherapy that should be used, as well as other specialised medicines available, to offer the patient better treatment tailored to their needs.”

Oncogene’s advanced methods and unique approach can provide new hope within the field of cancer treatment. By carrying out advanced genetic testing of cancer cells, the mutation that has caused the cancer can be identified. This way, treatment providers can assess the possibilities for treatment with precision medicine, allowing the patients to receive treatment according to their specific form of cancer. “Every individual’s health and genetic heritage is unique,” says Duesund. “By utilising innovative new technology, we can discover and gain a better understanding of mutations. Our goal is to make genetic analysis of cancer cells cheaper, more accessible, and with faster results so that patients can get greater peace of mind and more knowledge about their own health.”

Oncogene is a pioneer when it comes to the fight against cancer, working towards ushering in a new era of precision medicine in the lives of clinicians and cancer patients in Norway. “Through advanced genetic testing and cutting-edge

technologies like sequencing and bioinformatics, we focus on uncovering and interpreting each patient’s unique genetic code and utilising this information to identify the most effective treatment options,” says Duesund. “Cancer doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone. Our services are available to anybody, whether you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or want a screening to have better insight into your genes.”

Quicker results with new and efficient technology

Since Oncogene is based in Norway and uses state-of-the-art technology and a specialised analysis process, patients

can get their test results within as little as 3 days. Oncogene collaborates with Norway’s leading private cancer clinics and people can be tested at these medical centres across Norway. The samples will be sent to Oncogene’s laboratory in Kjeller. If samples are tested abroad, patients may have to wait up to 5-8 weeks to receive their results. “Ensuring patients get results as quickly as possible was a priority in the development of Oncogene. Providing this service quickly is costly, but reduces the wait time drastically,” Duesund explains. “When you receive a cancer diagnosis, time is the most important element. 8 weeks is a long time to wait for test results if you, or loved ones, are diagnosed with cancer.”

Oncogene is working on digitally connecting to the Norwegian health service so that the reports form part of the patient’s electronic record in the public system used by hospitals and general practitioners. This ease of sharing reliable and personal information is not possible for testing abroad, however. “By having genetic testing carried out in Norway, the patient saves time and cost. Having it done domestically is also more sustainable as unnecessary CO2 emissions from air transportation can be avoided,” Duesund adds. “We’re also focused on patient privacy – reports are processed safely within the closed system in Norway and only accessible to the patients and their treatment providers.”

www.oncogene.no

Reducing stress in life and in the modern workplace

Stress is almost impossible to escape in our modern lives, but the carefully developed Mestre App offers a powerful antidote to the harmful effects of stress. Providing expert advice and guidance to individuals as well as a dedicated workplace section, the app helps people regulate their stress levels, build resilience and improve their mental health.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Appex

Stress can take a toll on our physical, emotional and mental health. Over time, it can lead to a range of health issues and greatly impact quality of life. Identifying a need for an accessible and effective tool for managing stress, co-founders Hanne Suorza and Bjarte Stubhaug created Mestre. Combining the medical knowledge of doctor and psychiatrist Stubhaug, who specialises in the understanding and treatment of stress, with Suorza’s background in journalism and communications, the app guides users towards better mental health and wellbeing.

Having worked in stress management for almost 30 years, Stubhaug has a wealth

of knowledge to share, while Suorza has 10 years of experience delivering stress management courses to individuals and businesses. The app makes invaluable medical knowledge related to stress accessible, understandable, and easily applicable to users’ daily lives. With thoughtfully designed exercises and courses as well as informative articles and inspiring podcast episodes on a range of topics, Mestre is an interactive tool that helps users manage stress, achieve better sleep and improve wellbeing in every aspect of their lives.

“In our experience, topics such as stress management, sleep, concentration and

balance between work and leisure resonate with both private individuals and companies,” Suorza explains. “In the workplace, it’s important to maintain a dialogue about the prevention of stress and burnout, mental health, and how to achieve a healthier work culture through effective tools. This is highly relevant in today's society with a steadily increasing pace and an intense pressure to perform.”

An effective tool in combating workplace stress

Mestre Arbeid is Mestre’s dedicated workplace section focused on coping with work-related stress and helping companies create a working environment that prioritises mental health. The app gives employees access to stress management tools that can improve their well-being at work and in their personal lives. With the aim of preventing and reducing stress and burnout, Mestre Arbeid helps companies support their employees in dealing with stress and

improving their mental health through practical tools such as courses and exercises related to fostering effective communication, teamwork, time management and more. “Using Mestre Arbeid is an investment in increased productivity, employee well-being and reduced sickness absence,” Suorza says.

Integrating Mestre Arbeid into a company's HSE strategy can be a valuable tool for promoting mental health among employees, both individually and as a group. Well-documented feedback from users shows that the app can provide concrete benefits such as better sleep, reduced stress and increased well-being in individuals. In the workplace, the app contributes to better communication, stronger cohesion and increased productivity.

Now more than ever, employees value a supportive working environment where a good work-life balance is prioritised. Companies that make use of resources such as Mestre demonstrate that they are forward-thinking, innovative and focused on building a sustainable corporate culture, making them attractive as workplaces. “Many companies want to be proactive in ensuring their employees’ wellbeing and mental health, which is a positive development,” Suorza says. “Mental health is an important factor for well-being and productivity, and it’s wonderful that more managers and HR departments are becoming aware of and prioritising this.”

Accessibility for all

Ease of use and accessibility was key in the development of the app and its

content. The co-founders are aware of the myriad challenges facing people in modern society, with many feeling too overstimulated to make time for themselves. The basic version of the app with a limited number of exercises and Mestre’s podcast episodes is free to use. “Knowledge about stress management should be available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. The free app gives people the opportunity to try some exercises and get a feel for how Mestre can help them,” Suorza explains. “For companies and people who want access to more resources, we have priced the app low to ensure availability and transparency.”

Mestre provides access to short, impactful exercises that are flexible and can be easily integrated into a busy schedule. Ten minutes of downtime during a busy day can be utilised well by carving out a moment of relaxation, mindfulness and

grounding during the daily commute, on lunch breaks or between meetings. Taking advantage of small moments to check in with yourself during the day can make a big difference in the long run.

Since its launch several years ago, Mestre has received a fantastic response from its users. To date, app downloads range in the tens of thousands. “We’re so happy to receive fantastic feedback from our users,” concludes Suorza. “People say that the app helps them find peace and cope better in their daily lives. We feel that we’re meeting a need, and it’s inspiring to know that we can make a difference.”

www.stressmestre.no  Facebook: Mestre app Instagram: @mestre_app

www.hannesuorza.no  www.stubhaug.no

Mestre App co-founders Hanne Suorza and Bjarte Stubhaug have many years of experience in the field of stress and stress management.

Revolutionizing home security and care solutions

Whether you are living alone, having a family, or caring for ageing loved ones, security and peace of mind is priceless. Safe4, a company born out of a desire to provide more accessible, flexible safety solutions, is on a mission to change how we protect our homes and care for those who matter most.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Safe4

It is often said that home is where the heart is; a place where you can be yourself, where comfort takes root, and where silence is peaceful rather than empty. In many ways, home is the safe refuge from the outside world, so it is only natural that we want to keep this space and the people inhabiting it safe and secure.

Founded in 2013, Norwegian company Safe4 is at the forefront of this movement, redefining how people think about safety and security in their homes. "With a passion for technology and digitalization, I wanted to build a company that combines innovation with practical solu-

tions to make modern safety accessible to everyone," says Bjørge Kraft, founder of Safe4.

Bjørge Kraft, founder of Safe4.

"Here at Safe4, we believe it should be as natural to secure your home against fires, water leaks, or burglaries as it is to have broadband or insurance.”

With Safe4’s continuously developing technology and cutting-edge, IoT-based safety and care solutions, keeping your home and business safe has never been easier.

Easy and accessible safety solutions

Safe4 was born out of a management buy-out from G4S Norway, one of the world's largest security providers. Seeing room for improvement in a market that still relied heavily on outdated, closed systems, Kraft and his team set out to offer something different.

"Even today, only 20% of Norwegian homes are covered by safety solutions, and too many companies still bind customers with restrictive contracts and

high prices," says the founder. "Our goal is to offer security and peace of mind through open technology and flexible business models.”

The home safety market was once dominated by large players whose solutions were expensive and often also very similar. When the company entered the market, Safe4 challenged the status quo and shook up the industry by introducing a customer-first approach. "We wanted to make a difference," Kraft explains. "We’ve simplified the user interface, made installation easier, and digitized manual processes – enabling self-installation and lowering prices for end customers."

Through partnerships with companies such as Länsförsäkringar, Homely, Nimly, and Tryg, Safe4 has delivered safety solutions more efficiently and affordably. Tens of thousands of installations already provide peace of mind to households and businesses, and the team is excited to expand the impact further. "Our solutions allow customers to choose and adapt services as their needs evolve, without being tied down by a single provider or system," says Kraft.

Safe4 caters to various industries, ranging from security and insurance to healthcare and real estate. For families looking to safeguard their homes or businesses aiming to enhance their security infrastructure, Safe4’s certified technology is designed to be flexible and scalable. The company will remain com-

mitted to innovation and accessibility, pushing boundaries and keeping up with technological advancements.

Making security available to everyone

People are living for longer and in Norway, the government encourages its citizens to live independently for as long as they can. Wanting to help the elderly and people living alone while remaining safe and independent, Safe4 is extending its welfare technology. Through the Confi.care platform, it aims to address the needs of individuals, families, and the public sector.

By integrating care and safety alarms, Safe4 can provide peace of mind for both users and their loved ones, offering support whenever it’s needed. "Our technology is designed to support users in their daily lives without being intrusive," says Kraft.

Furthermore, by focusing on making the delivery of home-based care services more efficient for municipalities and healthcare providers, the company supports both independent and assisted living. The solutions provide real-time insights and digital support, enabling health personnel to allocate resources more effectively and deliver targeted care to residents.

“You can’t compromise on safety. We are committed to maintaining and continuously

on one row improving our customers’ trust through strict quality control and collaborations with our partners,” the founder adds. “Our goal is to make technology more user-friendly, more affordable, and accessible to a wider range of people."

www.safe4.com | www.safe4.care Facebook: Safe4 Security Group AS Instagram: @safe4securitygroup

How do you create safer spaces for the next pandemic?

The Covid-19 pandemic revealed how unprepared we were for a global surge of infectious diseases. So how can we protect ourselves against the increasing numbers of resistant bacteria and the outbreak of the next epidemic or pandemic? Spectrum Blue is working to protect society at a new level with a new approach.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Spectrum Blue

We are living in the aftermath of the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic that saw the world shut down. During the outbreak of one of modern history’s most deadly pandemics, we quickly learned to prioritise hand washing, using facemasks, cleaning surfaces thoroughly and doing our part to avoid the infection spreading. But tedious routines are easily forgotten. Though numerous viruses and bacteria thrive among the global population, we seldom see a facemask in public these days – and the risk of infec-

tion lurks even in spaces we may believe to be safe.

Surface contact is a source of contamination when it comes to microbes and

bacteria spreading. While preventive measures such as stringent cleaning and decontamination procedures are crucial to alleviate the risk of infection, a Norwegian company has developed a transformative healthcare technology that can offer long-term protection. Spectrum Blue’s novel quantum coatings make it possible to create safer spaces across multiple industries.

Infections pose a significant health risk  Globally, we are facing serious health challenges aggravated by climate change, rising population density, decreasing number of healthcare personnel, rising costs and increasing numbers of treatment-resistant bacteria and viruses. Within this context, technological innovation and advancement in the field

of healthcare are more important than ever – in fact, some experts claim that treatment-resistant bacteria and viruses will have worse effects on our society than the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In order to avoid infections, we need to reduce the number of bacteria, viruses and fungi in the environments where people gather and move,” says Brage W. Johansen, CEO of Spectrum Blue. “Today, we do this by preventative measures such as washing hands, cleaning rooms, wearing facemasks and taking vaccines. Vaccines protect against infection for a longer period, while the other measures are instant and last for a short time before you have to clean off the next wave of microbes.”

There is a risk of infection everywhere, even in places where people may not expect it. Being admitted to hospital is a risk factor as patients may contract a new infection during their stay – and it may be lethal. In fact, statistics by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention show that 700,000 patients die of healthcare-associated infections (HAI) every year across the globe. “Even in a small country like Norway, around 2,000 people die every year following an infection contracted at hospitals, and 25,000 more need special antibiotics to be cured,” says Johansen. “These avoidable deaths are tragic for the victims and their loved

ones and come at a huge cost for healthcare and our society.”

Health innovation through antimicrobial surface coating

Spectrum Blue has developed Q-field, an antimicrobial coating for surfaces which combats infections spreading. “Microbes often attach to physical objects and thrive in what we call biofilm on surfaces. They can survive for hours and days in a biofilm,” Johansen explains. “Our thinking is that if we can eliminate biofilm from surfaces, we would also reduce the danger of infections. This is a permanent solution that reduces the risk of infection.”

The implementation of this protective measure is simple: a teaspoon of Q-field is factory-mixed with a litre of paint. When painted on a surface, the product generates a quantum electric field –hence the name Q-field. The molecular electric fence is harmless and unnoticeable for human beings and animals, but it destroys bacteria, viruses and fungi that land on the surface. Used alongside hand sanitation and thorough cleaning of rooms and objects, Q-field is highly effective in protecting against infection.

If critical areas of surfaces in hospitals, public buildings, offices, nursing homes, restaurants, and hotels were coated, this would improve protection against epidemics and infections. Q-field can be

coated on all painted surfaces such as walls, tables, bedposts and typical touch points such as handrails and doorknobs. Q-field can also be integrated in textiles such as curtains and furniture. The treatment will dramatically reduce the number of microbes and fungi, and generate a better indoor climate. Quantum coatings are nontoxic and have a long-lasting effect, making this an excellent tool in safeguarding public health and safety.

Alongside the development of Q-field, Spectrum Blue is dedicated to analysing how and where epidemics migrate to find out more about what public areas should be prioritised to safeguard the public. Spectrum Blue is working on an information system aimed at documenting, managing and mapping safe public spaces.

www.spectrumblue.space

LinkedIn: Spectrum Blue

Impact of Healthcare-Associated Infections:

Financial cost:

• 2 Bn NOK in Norway

• 7 Bn EUR across the European Union

Mortality:

• 700,000 deaths on a global basis

• 10% of all affected patients will die from their HAI

• Improved Infection Protection and Control (IPC) can lead to a 70% reduction in HAI

• In Norway, 25% of all antibiotic prescriptions are attributed to HAI

Sources:

• World Health Organisation

• Centre for Disease Control

SpecialTheme: ARCHITECTURE

The World Architecture Festival explores tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities in architecture and interior design

The annual World Architecture Festival (WAF) will take place at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore 6-8 November. In addition to the world’s biggest live-judged awards programme, this year’s event will include a live events programme and keynote talks from an international panel of speakers around the theme ¨Tomorrow¨.

By Malin Norman

Lighthouse by 3XN has been nominated in WAF Completed Buildings: Housing. The building is located in Aarhus, Denmark. Photo: Adam Mørk

WAF and its co-located event, the Inside World Festival of Interiors, will welcome the world’s leading architects and designers for three days of talks programmes, awards, exhibitions and fringe events, showcasing leading international practices, the best new projects, and most pressing live debates. This is where the world architecture community meets to celebrate, learn, exchange and be inspired.

The 17th edition of the festival will take place at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, an innovative city that has seen extraordinary development in experimental architecture, urbanism and city planning, public transport and water management.

The theme for this year’s festival is ‘Tomorrow’, inspired by the description of architecture critic Reyner Banham as a ‘historian of the immediate future’. “We hope to shed light on what we may currently only dimly see. How will architecture, urban design, landscape and interiors be affected by the trends we see around us with respect to population movement, city growth, digital technology, AI, immersive environments and cultural change?“ says Paul Finch, director of WAF. “International speakers will be invited to reflect on the changes they see coming, and how this is being reflected in their own work and thinking.”

Lighthouse by 3XN. Photo: Adam Mørk

Urban horizons and pragmatic utopia

The programme includes 76 international speakers and presenters across two stages. A highlight is Professor Cheong Koon Hean, chairman of Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, who will kick off the event with her talk “Urban Horizons: The Next Chapter.” She was formerly CEO of the Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Housing and Development Board and contributed to the urban transformation of Singapore, introducing a new generation of smart and sustainable public housing areas.

Also speaking on the festival’s first day is Richard Whitehead, CEO and global B+P of AECOM. In his talk “Property investment, value and money. How architectural design is reshaping the economy and our cities,” he will explore how the push towards net zero buildings is reshaping valuation and design in real estate, emphasising the role of environmental sustainability.

The second day of the festival features Jan Bunge, advisor at Squint Opera, who will elaborate on how advances in real-time rendering technology and machine learning are radically changing the way architects design, build, and operate buildings and cities. His talk is titled “The Future of Urban Design: Harnessing the Potential of Digital Experience Twins and AI.” And on the third and final day, Kai-Uwe Bergmann, partner at Bjarke Ingels Group, will conclude the formal programme with “Pragmatic Utopia” – a speculative piece about utopian thinking.

Awards for cutting-edge design approaches

WAF represents the world’s biggest live judged architectural awards programme,

where all finalists present their projects to a panel of judges at the festival. On the final day of the festival, category winners from across all 43 categories will go head-to-head for the ultimate accolades of World Building of the Year, Landscape of the Year, Future Project of the Year and Interior of the Year.

WAF’s sister awards programme, the Inside World Festival, celebrates the finest examples of global interior design, across ten categories. The overall shortlist has been selected from 800 entries and comprises over 480 projects from more than 350 unique practices.

Also WAFX, a subsidiary event within the main hall, will host technical sessions,

Photo: World Architecture Festival

Photo: World Architecture Festival

Photo: World Architecture Festival

Midsommarkransen Elementary School by Tengbom AB has been nominated in WAF INSIDE: Education. The school is located in Stockholm, Sweden. Photo: Felix Gerlach

talks, discussions and a showcase of award winners, celebrating international proposals which embrace cutting-edge design approaches to address major world issues ranging from tackling the climate emergency to building community resilience. Alongside the main categories are a host of Special Prizes including the WAFX Award. One other such special award is the GROHE Water Prize, for demonstrating a new challenge or opportunity related to design within the built environment and water. This year’s winner will receive £10,000 from GROHE to enhance their project.

“With 175 judges coming to Singapore in November, this will be a truly international event and we look forward to welcoming both familiar and new names for the award presentations,” concludes Finch. “And our thematic conference programme ‘Tomorrow’ will review the directions in which architecture is heading in relation to 21st century conditions.”

www.worldarchitecturefestival.com

Facebook: ArchitectureFestival

Instagram: @worldarchfest

Twitter: @worldarchfest

Scandinavian firms shortlisted for awards at this year’s festival:

• Lighthouse by 3XN (Denmark), in WAF Completed Buildings: Housing

• Forskaren by 3XN (Denmark), in WAF Completed Buildings: Office

• Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant by Kivinen Rusanen Architects (Finland), in WAF Completed Buildings: Production energy and Logistics

• Unity Arena by Rodeo Architects (Norway), in WAF Future Project: Leisure Led Development

• Tårnkvartalet by Haptic Architects & Pir 2 (Norway), in WAF Future Project: Education

• Aarhus Harbor Masterplan by BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group (Denmark), in WAF Future Project: Masterplanning

•  EPFL Ecotope by 3XN and IB (Denmark), in WAF Future Project: Education

• Midsommarkransen Elementary School by Tengbom AB (Sweden), in INSIDE: Education

• The Fennia Block by Olla Architectur (Finland), in INSIDE: Retail

• “Sydney Opera House: A beautiful idea” exhibition at Utzon Center Aalborg by JAC studios (Denmark), in INSIDE: Temporary/Meanwhile uses

• Architecture Firm Stockholm Office by Tengbom AB (Sweden), in INSIDE: Workplace (Large)

World Architecture Festival and Inside World Festival of Interiors will take place at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 6-8 November 2024.

Forskaren by 3XN. Photo: Marcus Stork

Forskaren by 3XN has been nominated in WAF WAF Completed Buildings: Office. Forskaren is located in Stockholm, Sweden. Photo: Marcus Stork

Socially responsible architecture firm building the future

NSW Arkitektur is known as one of Norway’s most reliable and innovative architectural companies. Combining 45 years of experience and multi-disciplinary competence with genuine enthusiasm for architecture and design, the firm takes a human-centred, sustainable approach to creating enduring designs that are well-adapted to the local surroundings and intended use.

By Maria Sødal Vole

With 50 skilled international employees across three offices in Oslo, Hamar, and Lofoten, NSW is well-established in the Nordic and European markets. Over the years, the company has worked on a wide range of exciting projects differing in scope, complexity, and size.

The combination of extensive experience, innovative thinking, and willingness to take on a variety of projects has earned NSW a reputation as a major

player in the field of Scandinavian architecture. “Our success lies in building quality – that’s what we’re always trying to achieve,” says Jørn Narud, founding partner and architectural director.

Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, NSW’s team has expertise across a broad range of fields. With a considerable level of technical competence, historical background, and knowledge covering all areas of the profession, the firm can

provide first-rate work at all stages of a project. “Working across a broad spectrum means that we’re able to carry out projects from early-stage studies to completion,” says Ragnhild Storrønning. “Being involved in every step of the process is a privilege, and we enjoy building great relationships with our clients.”

Scale and materiality were central factors in the development of the design for Kongsberg Town Hall. Photo: Jiri Havran

Jørn Narud, founding partner and architectural director, and Ragnhild Storrønning, managing director and architect. Photo: NSW Arkitekter

Sustainability and people in focus

A human-focused, sustainable approach to architecture is an integral element of NSW’s philosophy. Building in harmony with the landscape and environment, as well as being functional and pleasant for the people who will interact with the spaces, is a key consideration.

Taking on projects ranging from small alterations of existing buildings to largescale enterprises, NSW values variety and flexibility. “We’re conscious of the context that each project exists within. While we always prioritise our customers’ needs, we're also concerned with the needs of society as a whole,” says Storrønning. “The buildings and the in-between spaces should be sustainable and offer value to the local community. They should be well-suited to the surroundings and create an exciting environment for the people who will live, work, and coexist in that space.”

Longevity is a crucial element in creating cohesion across the varied projects. "We work towards increasing the quality of the urban space and the city itself,” Narud adds. “Materiality and finishes are important– our buildings must be resilient, preserve well over time, and withstand the use for which they were designed."

Transforming spaces, preserving nature NSW identifies the adaptive reuse of existing structures as a key focus in the forth-

coming years. “Looking ahead, a principal value in architecture is preserving what we have – restructuring and integrating new functions in existing builds,” means Narud. “Unfortunately, we find lots of empty buildings in most cities. We should utilise these spaces and implement new activities that will strengthen the rest of the city, whether it’s homes, offices, or business activities.”

Storrønning and Narud see the utilisation and transformation of empty and underused spaces as a significant priority within architecture. They point out the particular importance of reimagining buildings and sites that carry historic and cultural significance, which can be

reshaped using modern elements and put to a new use that adds value for local populations.

Highlighting the importance of nature in urban areas, Storrønning points out that these are very valuable elements – green areas in urban contexts play a key role in people’s health and well-being as well as having varied environmental benefits. “We need to make the most of existing structures that aren’t being used,” she says and continues; “Preserving our nature is our obligation.”

www.nsw.no

Facebook: NSW Arkitektur

Instagram: @nswarkitektur

H&M Flagship Store – Karl Johans gate. Photo: Jiri Havran

The Glass lift connects Fløybyen to the town square and Pollen below. Photo: Anette Flaath

Urban project Tjuvholmen has excellent views of the Oslo waterfront.Photo: Jiri Havran

The family home Platheskogen 15, Høvik. Photo: Høvik Roger Sandvær

Architectural integrity to last generations

A part of the Scandinavian architectural tradition, Norway-based 4B Arkitekter AS has established a reputation for delivering high-quality architectural services across a broad spectrum of projects. From residential buildings to public infrastructure, 4B Arkitekter has a diverse portfolio that reflects its commitment to innovation, functionality, and aesthetic beauty.

By Celina Tran

The name 4B Arkitekter is an homage to the long history as an architectural firm, stretching all the way back to its original office on Vestheimgata 4B in Oslo back in 1971, when the firm was founded. Since then, the portfolio has grown with various different residential projects, leading culture buildings, as well as restoration projects.

“The team at 4B Arkitekter is highly knowledgeable, with a vast skill set and

experience,” explains Nils Halvorsen, general manager at 4B Arkitekter. “Our projects include feasibility studies and analyses, programming and design. We have core expertise in housing, historical restoration, cultural buildings, rehabilitation, and commercial buildings.”

The firm aims to run a versatile architectural practice, with high requirements for both architectural and building quality, all while ensuring that it continues

the Scandinavian tradition of simple, yet functional beauty. “We like to see the unique possibilities in each project and want to develop architecture that both we and our clients can be proud of,” Halvorsen adds.

Famous restoration projects

The contemporary, Nordic style bleeds into many of the newer projects, including Perlen in Asker, Fernanda Nissens Gate 3 in Storo, and a housing project in Langhus. While the team likes to work with a simple aesthetic, 4B Arkitekter understands the importance of respecting the historical context of surroundings, and tries to keep this in mind with each project.

“Perlen, for example, is based around a white wooden house architecture, and

Perlen in Asker. Photo: 4B Arkitekter

has been a way for us to take a piece of the contemporary world and put it in a historical context without making historical architecture,” says Halvorsen. That’s not to say they’re limited by the bounds of modern and contemporary work. In fact, 4B architects might be best known for its restoration work, giving new life to old and historical buildings.

One of the projects includes the famous Eidsvoll Manor House, where the Norwegian constitution was drawn up and signed in 1814. “During our work on Eidsvoll Manor, there were several exciting archaeological finds in the vault in the basement,” explains the CEO. “We decided to create a footbridge of steel and glass over the finds, so that the audiences can experience these historical finds too.”

Long-lasting, high-quality and green

Whether restoration or completely new housing projects, the team at 4B Arkitekter works actively to ensure that buildings will last for generations to come. “Sustainability is a constant in everything we do, and we feel like the best way for architects to be sustainable is by creating buildings that last, all while taking care of what already exists,” says Halvorsen.

“Lately, more and more buildings have been made from cross laminated timber and glulam,” he continues. “Looking ahead too, even more of our planned

projects use wood as the main construction material, which is more sustainable and efficient in relation to carbon dioxide emissions.”

The company is also a certified Miljøfyrtårn, meaning that the team, like other environmentally conscious businesses in Norway, registers and documents the environmental impact in order to do bet-

ter. This way, clients, partners and residents who seek a more eco-conscious solution can feel comfortable knowing that all of 4B Arkitekter’s buildings are bound to be long-lasting, high-quality, and green.

www.4b.no

Facebook: 4B ARKITEKTER

Instagram: @4b_arkitekter

The housing project in Langhus. Photo: Hoydefoto

Fernanda Nissens Gate 3 in Storo. Photo: Tove Lauluten

The basement of Eidsvoll Manor House. Photo: Trond Isaksen

Creating the framework for a good quality of life

Our surroundings have a big impact on our well-being. Frame Arkitektur knows this well, which is why the architecture firm’s aim is to create homes and workplaces that not only work well, but make people feel good.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger

A relative newcomer, Frame Arkitektur was established in 2020 by experienced architects and interior designers. It was born out of a desire to offer clients broad professional expertise and the option to work with one team during the entire process, from designing the building and its interior to completion.

No project is too big or too small. Frame has designed and decorated large offices, private properties and a yoga studio. It has several exciting projects under development, two of them in Drammen city centre. One is the development of an existing property into new homes and the other is developing 21 apartments as well as renovating a listed building.

Working with everything from housing developments, commercial projects, and private holiday homes, Frame has a team that

is ready to take on any challenge. “Every project is different, that’s what makes it so exciting,” says Camilla Christensen, managing director. “Offices and homes have similarities but also different needs, but in the end, quite a lot is the same.”

Knowing what is similar and understanding different needs is how the company went from working on projects all over Norway, to adding projects in Spain to the list. Frame has completed several renovations on projects in the high-end segment in Marbella, such as apartments in the well-known Puente Romano to family villas in Nueva Andalucía.

Architectural style and the client’s wishes Architecture and interior design are creative professions. Whilst architecture is also quite technical, it may surprise some to learn that so is interior design. It is not just

about making a space look beautiful, but also making it function well. Something that, when done well, is rarely noticed.

Interior designers and architects have a certain style to their projects, which is often what attracts clients to them. “Everyone has their own style and common thread in their projects,” Christensen says. “We have a certain style in what we do, but it’s what the client wants that’s important. This is why clients are encouraged to actively participate in the process. The better the architect and interior designer get to know the client, the better the end result.”

www.frame-ark.no

Instagram: @framearkitektur

Gamle Kirkeplass in the heart of Drammen. Photo: Frame

Large office project in Via Vika for Söderberg & Partners Wealth Management. Photo: Bow

Interior from one of the projects in Norway. Photo: Frame

Løkkebergveien, where Frame has worked on the facades. Photo: Frame

Building for tomorrow: Vindveggen Arkitekter's sustainable vision

Based near Oslo, Norway, Vindveggen Arkitekter has a clear mission: to design homes and buildings that stand the test of time while minimising the environmental impact.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Vindveggen Arkitekter

Founded in 2005 by architect Martin Glomnes, Vindveggen Arkitekter is an architectural firm named after a historic structure near Fetsund and Rælingen –a 600-meter long wall in the lake known as Vindveggen, meaning the wind wall, which protected timber from wind damage. Like its impressive namesake, the architects at Vindveggen Arkitekter have long-drawn structures with that same resilience in mind, creating homes and buildings to last many lifetimes.

Glomnes explains that Vindveggen Arkitekter has a history of sustainability going back to its founding. “Our focus has always been on designing buildings that endure and inspire,” he says. “While we emphasise genuine ecological design, reducing CO2 emissions, and building structures that last, we also create spaces that foster good work and living environments.”

Lystad Brannstasjon is a prime example of the firm’s dedication to eco-friendly architecture. Built from wood, recycled

steel, and low-carbon concrete, the fire station was designed with high environmental ambitions, focusing on economic, social, and ecological sustainability.

One of the fire station’s key features is the use of the geothermal energy, which is harvested from underground wells and is used to heat the building and provide hot water. It’s a renewable and long-lasting solution, which works well in combination with the solar panels that provide green electricity to the building. Further, the sedum on the roof is used to retain rainwater, enhance insulation, and protect the roof membrane from UV radiation.

"These systems work together to make the building as self-sufficient as possible," Martin explains. Beyond the environmental considerations, Lystad Brannstasjon was also designed with the well-being of its employees in mind. “We wanted to create a good working environment for these key workers,” Martin says.

With a fully staffed station around the clock, the design includes residential-like accommodations for comfort. There are individual sleeping quarters, training rooms, and a multi-purpose hall where staff can play sports like football, basketball, and badminton, not to mention a rock-climbing wall. A training tower, both indoor and outdoor, allows them to practice rope work and climbing. "We also added a kitchen and a quiet area where they can relax and watch movies,” Martin adds. “It's important that they have spaces to rest when not on duty."

www.vindveggen.no

Facebook: Vindveggen Arkitekter AS Instagram: @vindveggen

Contact:  post@vindveggen.no

Award-winning architecture for multi-generational communities

With a vision to bridge the gap between generations and create spaces for greater user involvement, LOCAL continues to push the boundaries for innovative design.

By Malin Norman

“We specialise in multigenerational housing, care homes and urban planning. Our expertise spans health, transformation and biomaterials, with creative and client-focused solutions,” says Jérome Picard, co-founder, partner and associate professor at KMD University of Bergen. “We are currently engaged in projects with private developers in health-oriented housing as well as municipalities that are preparing for the age wage. We are also active researchers on health across all stages of life.”

Located in Bergen, Brussels and Paris, the firm’s work is regularly praised internationally. For instance, LOCAL has been awarded the 40under40 prize for Best Emerging Young Architects & Designers in Europe, and its project Greenstation won the Good Design Award 2023 in the category Green Transportation, to name a few.

One of the projects receiving plenty of attention is Greymatter, which reimagines the health ecosystem. “Greymatter

brings an innovative approach that includes senior citizens at the heart of rural and urban renewal,” explains Picard. “In this project, we explore urban and active ageing, reimagine the health ecosystem and relocate it to where we live. The idea is to create inclusive, multi-generational neighbourhoods and compassionate communities, for future generations.”

Another project exploring health and multi-generational communities is Nursing the Care, an initiative that aims to integrate healthcare services, staff, and comprehensive care into Danish social housing. It won the international competition Neighbourhood for Generation and was presented at the 28th UIA World Congress 2023 in Copenhagen. The team will also participate in Placemaking Europe 2024 in Rotterdam 24-27 September, presenting its vision for integrated health in social housing.

With the project Skakkeringen, LOCAL is reinventing the school yard. The team composed of LOCAL and PIR2 worked

with Vestland County Council for the development and construction of simple, local meeting places with varied and attractive low-threshold offers for physical activity. “We wanted to showcase how public schools can play a greater civic role in rural Norway,” says Picard. “Good meeting places are important for both public health and the local environment.”

LOCAL has been nominated at the World Architecture Festival in the category INSIDE: Workplace (Small). The team will present its project CFE office, a renovation of the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger (CFE) office in Paris, to the jury this November in Singapore.

www.locallll.com

Facebook: LOCAL

Instagram: @_locallll

The team at LOCAL. Photo: Montag

Skakkeringen, Project LOCAL & PIR2.

Photo Artishot - Arkitekturfoto

Greymatter. LOCAL illustration Onirism.

the Care. LOCAL illustration Onirism.

CFE Office, project by LOCAL. Photo: BCDF

Bergen’s unique community space combines sauna, swimming and culture

With a people-centred approach, creative architecture firm Utopic is devoted to making inclusive social spaces through beautiful architecture and direct co-creation. Powered by local enthusiasts, the idealistic Laugaren project provides Bergen with a health and culture-focused community space that has transformed the neighbourhood’s seafront.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Fredrik Besvåg

Taking advantage of the city’s location in the heart of Fjord Norway, Bergen Laugarlag is a volunteer association dedicated to making the city’s beautiful waterfront accessible. Bjørnar Skaar Haveland, the organisation’s leader and also CEO of Utopic, initially envisioned the building of the sauna as a small guerilla project utilising leftover building materials, but quickly realised it had the potential to be much more.

Through a series of workshops, the idea garnered overwhelming engagement. Its potential to bring people together and connect Bergen’s inhabitants to the experiences of the fjord on their doorstep was clear, and the project's ambitions increased to become a cathedral for swimming. The group managed to raise money to build Laugaren – an innovative floating building consisting of a sauna, social space, changing room, indoor plunge pool, and a jetty leading into the water.

User participation, co-creation, and communal collaboration were cornerstones of the project’s development. Most of the volunteers who built the 72-square metre sauna were amateurs who learnt building techniques along the way. “Working on a site with people who will be using it is invaluable – it creates connection and builds a bridge between design and practical use,” Skaar Haveland explains.

Taking its moniker from the old Norse word lauge, meaning to bathe or wash, Laugaren is a non-commercial project aiming to promote the joy of bathing and providing a social meeting place and cultural arena. Run by over 100 dedicated volunteers, Laugaren’s low pricing ensures accessibility, and the team organises winter swimming courses alongside a range of cultural events in one of the city’s coolest spaces.

Laugaren’s distinctive architecture, featuring tall, arched wooden beams and

large glass surfaces offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, contributes to its distinctive feel. Built using sustainable, locally sourced materials, it has received plenty of praise, been named Sauna of the Year 2024 and won the prestigious DOGA award for outstanding use of design and architecture.

People should be in focus, Skaar Haveland believes, for small or large-scale projects. “What we as architects create only holds value when it’s suitable for users, and it holds the most value when it’s created alongside other people,” he says. “At Utopic, our goal is to contribute to healthy, vibrant local communities.”

A recently established architecture firm, Utopic mainly focuses on small-scale architecture. An exciting New Yorkbased sauna project is underway and due to be unveiled next summer. Skaar Haveland also serves as General Secretary of Europan Norway, a network and biennial competition for young architects to develop innovative strategies and solutions for transforming urban spaces across European cities.

www.utopic.no  www.laugaren.no

Ratio arkitekter’s vision for beautiful and useful architecture

At Ratio arkitekter, architecture is more than just buildings – it’s about creating spaces that enrich everyday life, inspire human connection, and respond to the pressing challenges of sustainability.

By Celina Tran

With 30 years under its belt, Ratio arkitekter has become one of Norway’s most established architectural firms within public sector projects. From healthcare and science to culture and education, the firm has amassed a most impressive portfolio.

"Being involved in these types of projects means that we carry a certain responsibility," says Solveig Strand, architect (MNAL), partner and manager at Ratio arkitekter. "We don’t just design buildings; we shape environments that have a long-lasting impact on society. It’s our job to ensure that these spaces aren't just functional but that they also give something back to the community."

A union designed to succeed Ratio’s journey began with the merger of two pioneering firms, Medplan AS and Bergersen, Gromholt and Ottar Arkitek-

ter AS (BGO). Having contributed significantly to Norwegian architecture, they both brought their own legacy to the table, from transforming the industrial Aker Brygge into the vibrant stage for Latter Comedy House to winning the prestigious competition for the new National Hospital (Rikshospitalet) in Oslo.

The two companies collaborated over several years and with award-winning projects, the blossoming relationship quickly proved itself highly efficient. "The decision to merge was a natural evolution," says Strand. "We had worked together for years on cultural projects and formalised that partnership in 2010 as Ratio arkitekter. It allowed us to combine our strengths and continue to push boundaries."

Since then, Ratio has become known for its award-winning projects like the High Security Mental Hospital at St. Olav's Hospital in Trondheim, which is highly regarded for its innovative approach to psychiatric care design, as well as the Stavanger Concert Hall, which has gained international recognition for excellent acoustics and its multifunctional spaces both internally and externally.

"We believe that every building we design is unique as each project is shaped by a special process," Strand adds. "We want our buildings to be both specific and universal, able to adapt to changing functions while maintaining a strong

Stavanger Concert Hall. Photo: Jiri Havran

High Security Mental Hospital at St. Olavs Hospital in Trondheim. Photo: m.herzog _ visualis-images

identity." As one of the few large, yet independent architectural firms, Ratio arkitekter set themselves apart through their focus on creating architecture that speaks to the human experience.

"Here at Ratio, we’re not just architects," she continues. "We're designers, problem solvers, and listeners. At the heart of our work is the desire to craft spaces that bring something meaningful to people's lives, whether it's through the small moments of daily life or grand, public experiences."

The word ratio in the name encompasses ideas like proportion, reason and intent, all concepts that guide the firm’s approach to design. "Architecture, at its core, is about creating spaces for people. In every project, we start by thinking about the individuals who will inhabit or interact with the building. This human-centred approach is evident in every phase of the process.”

As well as a willingness to take on new challenges, Ratio arkitekter values knowledge, skills and collaboration. "For us, the architect's role is part of a bigger picture, which is why we work closely with other professionals, always showing respect for their knowledge and needs. That’s how we achieve the best results,” says Strand. "We work systematically on building expertise, both on individual and company level. This is crucial because our projects often involve a high level of complexity, requiring new technologies and multi-functional spaces."

Continuing a legacy of innovation and sustainability

Ratio arkitekter has a clear goal; to create architecture that both society and the planet can afford. Sustainability demands a continued use of buildings and facilities that have already been constructed. "We work hard to unite economic, social, and environmental sustainability in all our projects,” explains Strand. “In the future, we will build more with what we have, to reduce use of resources and land.”

With the world facing a climate crisis, Ratio is committed to designing energy-efficient buildings with sustainable materials and good indoor climates. "The environment has a breaking point, and the climate is out of balance. We want to be part of the solution. This means

thinking critically about the impact our buildings have on nature and how we can minimize that,” says Strand.

Ratio will continue to push for innovation and sustainability, using the latest knowledge to help, inspire, and guide builders and contractors to reduce their environmental impact. "It’s our goal to build for an energy-efficient future, without compromising on the things that matter, such as aesthetics, light, space, and materials," Strand adds. "We want our buildings to have a long, sustainable lifespan and to offer spaces where people feel good. That’s the legacy we’re building."

www.ratioark.no

Facebook: Ratio Arkitekter

Instagram: @ratioarkitekter

National Hospital. Photo: Niklas Lello

Stavanger Concert Hall, multipurpose stage. Photo: Jiri Havran

Life Science Building | UIO OUS. Illustration: Ratio arkitekter, Cubo arkitekter, Mir.no

Redefining Norway’s destination development

In an era where travel and tourism are evolving rapidly, IHUGA Arkitekter stands out for its deep expertise in designing for unique destinations. Specializing in tourist and mountain resorts, IHUGA has carved out a niche that bridges the needs of businesses, visitors, and nature.

By Celina Tran | Photos: IHUGA

Small but with a hunger to create, IHUGA seeks to create sustainable, vibrant destinations. First founded as a student project in 2004 by Aasmund Vaa and Anders Koller Tufte, IHUGA has experienced many phases and projects. “Today, we specialize in destinations that enhance the traveller’s experience while ensuring long-term viability for the community and environment,” says Vaa. “Whether it’s ski resorts or hiking retreats, we focus on balancing the natural beauty of the landscape with the needs of the modern visitors.”

IHUGA values the human experience and aims to create spaces where potential can grow. As a small company, the team can work closely with clients, allowing them to tailor the designs to specific goals and needs. Regardless of working with a destination project or other struc-

tures, IHUGA provides customized solutions that address environmental and commercial concerns.

“We always consider improving existing structures rather than expanding the human footprint,” says Tufte, explaining that they like to focus on rehabilitation and finding solutions that make the best of what already exists. “Revamping, with equal respect for both the past and the future, is going to be an increasingly important task for architects in years to come,” he says.

Much of IHUGA’s work has been concentrated in the mountains, with the portfolio including development of places such as Gaustablikk, Tyin Filefjell, the Arctic Center in Tromsø, Støtvig Hotell på Larkollen, and more. While these places may have been centred mostly around

winter sports, they are far from limited to that niche. “Recently, we have expanded into other types of tourist destinations, applying our expertise to a variety of projects,” says Vaa. “In Hafjell, we’ve been commissioned to conduct a mobility study, aiming to create efficient transport solutions that could transform the accessibility and appeal of the area for future visitors.”

In addition to the office in Oslo, the firm also has a space in Bilbao, Spain, from which the team is involved in exciting projects and collaborations. The international expansion demonstrates the company's ability to adapt destination-centric designs to different climates, cultures, and client needs. “It’s not just about building beautiful structures; it’s about understanding how people will interact with the space. From families visiting a ski resort to adventurers looking for a remote retreat, to just even having a coffee in their own kitchen, we aim to create spaces that enhance those experiences,” says Tufte.

www.ihuga.no

Arctic Center, Tromsø.

Alpine Village, Bjorli.

Kollen Skilodge, Gausta/Tinn.

Pioneers of timber and community

Renowned for its innovative use of timber and a strong focus on sustainability, Norway-based Helen & Hard has carved out a space in the architectural world by designing structures and reimagining how people live within them.

The story of Helen & Hard begins in 1996 when Siv Helene Stangeland and Reinhard Kropf, fresh from their architectural studies, decided to establish a practice in Stavanger. Against the backdrop of a thriving and fast-growing city, the two began to work on renovations of old log houses and buildings, which laid the foundation for the firm’s enduring commitment to organic, timber-based design. “We were fascinat-

ed by timber’s robustness, renewability, and the way in which it can be adapted and reused in modern architecture,” says Stangeland, founder and senior architect.

Through a series of high-profile projects, including cultural buildings like the Vennesla Library and the recently opened Innovation HUB Innoasis, Helen & Hard has showcased its innovative use of timber and ability to transform spaces into dynamic, community-focused environments. “Our work philosophy is underpinned by what we call relational architecture, which emphasizes the collaboration between the building and the environment, as well as the people who live or work there,” she explains.

The concept gaining by sharing is a groundbreaking way of imagining a new form of co-living, where residents share

By Celina Tran

resources and spaces to promote environmental sustainability, reduce loneliness, and adapt to new family dynamics. Stangeland adds; “This approach is not just about creating buildings, but about addressing broader societal challenges through design.”

www.helenhard.no

www.gainingbysharing.no

Facebook: Helen & Hard Instagram: @helenhardarchitects

Long experience in sustainable design

Aiming to realise beautiful architecture as a basis for sustainable design in residential and healthcare projects, Morim Hummitzsch Arkitekter is off to a great start.

Norway-based start-up Morim Hummitzsch Arkitekter was founded by Joana Morim and Benjamin Hummitzsch. The duo with Portuguese and German roots respectively met while working on Oslo’s new National Museum of Art, Architecture, and Design for Kleihues + Schuwerk Architects. Both held key roles in the prestigious project, making sure that the architectural ambitions were realised. When the museum opened in 2022, after

eight years in the making, Hummitzsch and Morim decided to start their own firm.

The architects had the opportunity to collaborate with Gunnar Kind AS in the detailing, execution and interior of Tåsenhjemmet in Oslo, which is due to open at the end of the year. The project includes a nursing home with 130 resident rooms, a day centre, and adjacent outdoor areas. Similar to the museum, this 14.000 square metre project is part of the FutureBuilt programme in Norway, which supports climate friendly urban development. “We are happy to be part of this interesting project,” reflects Hummitzsch. “Having worked with stone for many years on the museum assignment, it was exciting to work on the design of a massive timber construction this time.”

By Malin Norman

Morim Hummitzsch Arkitekter is also involved in private residential and healthcare projects. In 2023 the renovation project of a private clinic in Leipzig, Germany was realised and at the moment the team has a house in Lofoten as well as a countryside residence just outside Lisbon on the drawing board. “We really enjoy this scale of assignment as well and appreciate the direct dialogue that we can have with our clients.”

www.morim-hummitzsch.no

Photo: Sindre Ellingsen

Photo: Minna Soujoki

Photo: Hummitzsch

Photo: Hummitzsch

Striking landmarks to explore in Sweden

Architecture in Sweden is diverse and many of the most notable buildings, from modern architecture to historic landmarks, can be explored at your own leisure.

By Malin Norman

Photo: Treehotel

The eye-catching skyscraper Turning Torso in Malmö is one of the tallest buildings in Scandinavia. The 54-floor neo-futurist structure houses both apartments and offices, and is now a well-recognised landmark. Another distinctive building in Malmö is the World Maritime University, with a shard-like façade made from aluminium and glass, just a few minutes from Malmö Central Station.

In Gothenburg, renowned architect Gert Wingårdh has designed Kuggen, a piece of modern architecture with an Italian renaissance twist. The distinct cylindrical building features a mosaic of glazed terracotta panels that change colour depending on perspective and the changing daylight. Gothenburg is also the location for The Sauna in Frihamnen,

made from recycled materials. Both the sauna and the surrounding Jubilee Park were created in celebration of Gothenburg’s 400th anniversary in 2021.

Further north, you will find the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, the country’s most unique hotel and art gallery, made from ice every year. And of course the remarkable Treehotel in Lapland, with rooms suspended above ground and with views of the Lule river valley. Various Scandinavian architects have put their mark on the design of the different rooms, including Norwegian architects Snöhetta, Swedish Tham & Videgård Arkitekter, and Finnish-Icelandic-Norwegian studio Rintala Eggertsson Architects.

For more spectacular architecture in Sweden, see www.visitsweden.com

TurningTorso. Photo: Silvia Man, imagebank. sweden.se

Kuggen. Photo: Sofia Sabel, imagebank.sweden.se

The Sauna. Photo: Marie Ullnert, imagebank.sweden.se

Adopting traditional techniques for moving forward

The architects at Fabel arkitektur have a specific approach when designing new houses and homes. With wood as the preferred material, they design buildings that are carefully embedded in the surrounding landscape.

By Malin Norman

Fabel arkitektur is specialised in wooden constructions and creates everything from detailed villas and holiday homes to inviting public spaces and larger structures. With a strong design language and a focus on the people who will actually use the space, the team creates architecture that both gives and takes place in its surroundings.

“For almost 12 years now, we have focused on the buildings’ anchoring to the surroundings, history and location and we see that the projects develop differently depending on the specific setting,”

says Catharina Dahl Palmér, architect and co-owner. “With roots in the forests of Småland, we have developed a special interest in wood as a building material and in traditional craftsmanship and techniques.”

The team often works with timber. “Log houses are fascinating structures as you can take them apart, move them to another location, replace parts and build addons, and renovate them to be used for another purpose,” says the architect. “Using wood as a material is a sustainable way to build – and with a material that’s available just around the corner. By going back to

traditional techniques, we look at what’s possible to do in the future.”

The award-winning Höghult house Fabel arkitektur has recently been named Architect of the Year in Stora Formpriset 2024 by the magazine Residence. The jury’s motivation reads; “With neat proportions, simple materials and old wisdom, designed with a modern mind, Fabel arkitektur gives us the Höghult house, a lesson in future building.” The project was also nominated for the Kasper Salin Prize by Sveriges Arkitekter in 2023, amongst other prestigious awards.

The awarded building Höghult is a part of a large estate in the countryside on a site that is steep and overlooking the forest and a nearby lake, with a number of old buildings. The Höghult house con-

Catharina Dahl Palmér, Sofie Campanello and Malin Wolter. Photo: Amanda Falkman

sists of two equally sized volumes, both built entirely from wood; one part with a traditional closed horizontal timber structure houses a sauna, a shower and a bedroom, and another more modern part with open timber framing has a large open room and a patio on both sides.

“Our vision for Höghult was to add a building to the estate that was both restrained and magnificent at the same time and which had an interaction with the surrounding nature,” means Dahl Palmér. “Simplicity and clarity of vision is key throughout the process. Here, we used old timber techniques interpreted in a new way. The goal was that all additions and materials in the house that were not made of wood should be pure, honest, and easy to interpret.”

The single-family house Vallda Another praised building is the Vallda house, situated in the southern part of Sweden. The single-family house has two very different sides; one side features the entrance, and the other side has several windows and glass doors with beautiful views from all rooms. The kitchen is the largest room in the house, where the

owners can spend time with family and friends. The bedrooms are small but with great views of the landscape.

“The design of the Vallda house challenges how much space we need in our private homes and how large or small a single-family house needs to be in a country where it’s becoming more and more common to build large private residences,” adds Dahl Palmér.

www.fabelarkitektur.se

Facebook: Fabel arkitektur

Instagram: @fabelarkitektur

Recent award nominations for Fabel arkitektur:

• Nominated for Kasper Salin 2024

• Nominated for Ung svensk arkitektur 2024

• Nominated for Träpriset 2024

Photo: Malena Ridderstad

Photo: Kauppi & Kauppi

Photo: Kauppi & Kauppi

Design to make a differece

Sunnerö Architects is a dynamic and forward-thinking architectural and design firm with a team driven by passion and curiosity. Its winning proposal for a residential block north of Malmö is currently under construction and due to be inaugurated next year.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Sunnerö Architects

Gothenburg based Sunnerö Architects was founded in 2019 by Anna Sunnerö. With extensive experience as an architect both in Sweden and internationally, she has established a firm that now consists of 12 architects, designers and engineers. The team manages projects from initial concept through to design and construction.

“Our team is experienced and diverse, driven by a passion for creating meaningful and impactful spaces,” says Sunnerö. “Rather than being confined to a specific style or form, we see architecture as an opportunity to foster connections and make a difference.”

The portfolio encompasses a wide range of projects including corporate, civic, and

private sectors. From hotels to residential buildings, offices to commercial spaces, educational facilities to mixed-use developments, and public structures.

Anna Sunnerö, founder

Winning proposal becomes reality Sunnerö Architects has participated in and won numerous competitions that emphasize design and sustainability. One of its winning proposals, a residential building with 118 apartments, is now under construction and is due to be inaugurated in 2025.

The residential block of 11,000 square metres is located in Kävlinge, north of Malmö in Sweden, and is tailored to suit different types of people, needs and functions. “It will be a new landmark, marking the identity of the new development at the entrance to the city,” says the founder.

In 2022, the team won two competitions with stringent sustainability requirements, and these projects are also being developed further. Both projects feature hybrid structures of wood and concrete, with facades made from wood and recycled materials. And in 2023, Sunnerö Architects won yet another competition,

Residential building in the south of Sweden

with a proposal that shows how it is possible to plan for tomorrow's communities on nature's terms.

Back to basic and starting small

The company’s approach is to work in small teams tailored to the specific needs of each project, crafting architecture that is conceptually robust, with spatial qualities and a strong sense of design, no matter the scale. “By starting with a small group, you can establish a solid foundation, identify and address potential issues early on, and create a cohesive team dynamic that can be scaled up effectively as the project grows,” means Sunnerö.

“We believe that great design emerges from embracing diverse practises and challenging conventional thinking,” she continues. “By involving experts from various disciplines and backgrounds, we bring fresh ideas and perspectives to each project, resulting in site-specific, inclusive and forward-thinking solutions.”

The founder emphasises that the team is not trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, going back to basic encourages leveraging existing solutions to save time, reduce costs, and ensure reliability, thereby allowing more focus on innovation and improvement in areas that can bring new value.

Green building practices for the future

The construction industry is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, presenting a significant challenge. Sunnerö Architects embraces the necessary paradigm shift and guides clients based on each project’s unique conditions and opportunities. The approach is holistic, with a focus on the well-being of both people and the planet.

Wood, a renewable material that is part of nature’s cycle, has the lowest emissions and climate footprint and the use of wood involves fewer transport and less waste compared to other materials. “We believe in using materials that age gracefully and ensure long-term sustainability. Also, our experience shows

that wooden spaces enhance people’s well-being.”

The tight-knit team promotes strategies to make the most of existing buildings and assesses structures to find ways to repurpose and maximise benefits with minimal impact. Sunnerö adds; “The most climate-friendly building is one that doesn’t need to be built. At Sunnerö Architects, we work with transformations of buildings. Currently under construction is an insufficient school building where, thanks to our transformation, it will be experienced as if it was completely new.”

www.sunneroe.se

Facebook: Sunnerö

Instagram: @sunneroearchitects

Transformation of old school from 1970 to a new.

Residentail, office and hotel in Gothenburg

Residential house and garden

Kanozi Architects: In harmony with life

Meet Kanozi, a visionary group of architects with the human aspect rooted in everything they do. Fuelled by curiosity and led by a hunger for smart solutions, the Kanozi team lets buildings’ prerequisites shape both concept and design, resulting in original projects with longevity at heart.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Kanozi Architects

“We believe that architecture has a big impact on how we live our lives. That’s why it’s important to not only design buildings but thriving environments where people feel inspired and at home,” says Thea Foss Henriksen. “While we are constantly looking for new technical innovations, we always strive to remain focused on the human element.”

Looking at Kanozi’s design process itself, this is deeply anchored in dialogue and co-creation. It is also defined by close collaboration, not only with clients but with the end user and other consultants too.

Non-linear approach and design thinking “We’re underpinned by design thinking and a non-linear way of working. This

Arena Skrapan. Photo: Erik Lefvander

Arena Sergel. Photo: Patric Johansson

method allows us to try different solutions to the same problem and see what works best,” explains Foss Henriksen.

“It’s effective, yes, but also requires us to treat the different phases of a project in the right way. Overall, our goal is to create durable, inspiring spaces that are functional, beautiful and designed in harmony with the surroundings.”

There is also an emphasis on durability, both from an environmental and a social perspective. This approach applies to everything from minimising a building’s carbon footprint to optimising its energy usage. Indeed, longevity is key, which can be seen across Kanozi’s rich project roster.

Old police station becomes hotel and flats

Great examples are Vasakronan’s Arena Sergel and Arena Skrapan, two renovation projects where existing spaces were restored and improved in tandem with the design of a flexible working environment. Another project, which is currently in the

pipeline, is Kv Barken/Polishuset. The plan is to turn this 20th century police station into a hotel and residential flats, inspired by the old police building’s unique history and character.

Speaking of sustainability efforts, the building business is currently seeing a big change where EU regulations are pushing players to act more sustainably across the board.

“We see these changes as healthy pressure which will help synchronise the industry to work towards the same, green goals. And to us as architects, it just means doing more of what we know and love,” concludes Foss Henriksen.

www.kanozi.se

Instagram: @kanozi_arkitekter

Polishuset. Photo: Kanozi Architects

Polishuset. Photo: Kanozi Architects

Koppartråden. Photo: Emil Fagander

Koppartråden. Photo: Emil Fagander

How can we live with water in a changing world?

By: Kasper Foged, Danish Architecture Center (DAC)

Jakarta, Houston, Manila, and Istanbul are just a few of the major cities worldwide that face the risk of flooding as sea levels continue to rise. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events compel us to rethink how we build and live.

As we confront these challenges, the need for innovative approaches becomes increasingly clear. A new exhibition named “Water is Coming” at Danish Architecture Center (DAC) in Copenhagen explores, conveys, and debates the complex relationship between water, humans, and our changing world. It zooms in on how city planners and a strong architectural tradition can help us face present and future challenges.

Denmark is a small lowland country with a coastline of 7,300 kilometres. Surrounded by water, Denmark, like all other nations, faces a global challenge that demands both immediate and long-term solutions at regional and local levels. If we are to develop and adapt our landscapes, cities, buildings, and homes to a rapidly changing world, we must radicalise our thinking, adopt flexible approaches, and engage in new forms of collaboration.

These questions are particularly pertinent in this exhibition. How do we adapt our coastlines and buildings? How do we prioritize and strategically plan where to build and live? How can we act individually and collectively? How can we ensure that we live in better balance with nature and improve biodiversity in the long term?

“Water is Coming” allows visitors to explore visions, historical perspectives, and current knowledge actively. To experience installations, visualisations, models, and live projections that demonstrate how urban planners, landscape architects, architects, and engineers worldwide, from countries like the Netherlands, Greenland and Denmark to cities such as Copenhagen, Venice, Hamburg and New Orleans, in collaboration with researchers and other disciplines, are inventing new solutions for the changing world of water caused by climate change.

As visitors engage with these themes, the poetic and vibrant scenography, mirroring the fluid nature of water, is designed to inspire visitors to reflect and actively participate in shaping the con-

versation about the role of water in our future world.

The exhibition also offers an opportunity to revisit the Danish contribution “Coastal Imaginaries” to the Architecture Biennale in Venice 2023 curated by Josephine Michau, including the scenographic diorama “Mermaid Bay” by Christian Friedlander and the vision project “Copenhagen Islands” by Schønherr Landscape Architects.

Experience how we can live with water from 7 October 2024 to 23 March, 2025.

Danish Architecture Center (DAC) Bryghuspladsen 10,1473 Copenhagen

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

www.dac.dk

Danish Architecture 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.

Photo: Christian Palmer, Unsplash

visit us at davsjo.com

At Davsjö, we are dedicated to blending timeless Scandinavian design with exceptional craftsmanship. Using sustainable, natural materials, we create furniture that is not only functional but built to last for generations. Our commitment to simplicity, elegance, and durability ensures that each piece fits seamlessly into modern homes.

Shaping the future with tradition and vision

Helsinki-based AOR Architects is celebrated for its fusion of traditional building methods and forward-thinking, sustainable design. Specialising in complex public buildings and urban planning, the firm's award-winning projects exemplify its deep expertise in modern architecture.

By Ndéla Faye

AOR Architects is known for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating aesthetics, social impact, ecology, and functionality. Its diverse portfolio spans public and private projects, from large-scale urban developments to bespoke commissions.

The firm’s standout projects include the Tampere Art Museum, Tuusula High School and Cultural Centre Monio, and Helsinki’s Jätkäsaari School. “Our work reflects a commitment to sustainability, versatility, and bold problem-solving,” says partner Arto Ollila. Renowned for navigating complex urban environments and merging contemporary structures with historical or natural surroundings, AOR thrives on challenging projects.

“The tougher the task, the more we can demonstrate our expertise,” Ollila adds.

One of AOR Architects’ recent projects is an extension to the historic Tampere Art Museum, originally designed by C. L. Engel and built in 1838. The firm prioritised

preserving the adjacent park and green space, opting for a vertical structure that minimises its footprint on the ground. A key feature of the design allows art to be visible from the street, ensuring that passers-by can engage with the museum also from outside.

Masters of sustainable architecture

AOR has gained widespread recognition for its excellence in sustainable timber construction, expertly blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. A notable example is Tuusula High School and the Monio cultural space, one of Finland’s largest public timber buildings. The unpainted timber façade and interiors recall Finland’s historical log construction, yet the design is undeniably modern. “We aimed to revive this longstanding construction method, making it sleek and contemporary,” explains Ollila.

“With smaller projects, there's more room to experiment with new tech-

niques. Larger-scale projects bring greater challenges and demand scalable solutions, which we achieve through advanced industrial construction methods,” he continues. “Our work is rooted in traditional skills, but always with a focus on sustainability and natural materials.”

AOR’s commitment to sustainability, visionary design, and tradition has earned the team multiple awards, including the 2021 Finnish State Prize for Architecture and a finalist spot for the 2020 Royal Academy Dorfman Award. Beyond architecture, AOR is also actively involved in urban planning, shaping everything from intimate interventions to expansive urban developments.

By respecting the heritage of architecture while fearlessly embracing contemporary design challenges, AOR Architects is redefining Finland’s architectural landscape, one project at a time. “The next step is to take our expertise and knowledge beyond Finland’s borders, where we are constantly seeking opportunities to showcase our skills,” Ollila concludes.

www.aor.fi

Instagram: @aorarchitects

Tuusula High School and Cultural Centre lobby. Photo: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio

XAMK University of Applied Sciences. Photo: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio Tampere Art Museum. Photo: MIR

MiniTheme: GUIDETOTROMSØ

Cosy neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Tromsø

The family-run, community-focused restaurant Hildr has welcomed guests for almost a decade. Hildr’s gastronomic delights based on fresh local ingredients combined with its warm and inviting atmosphere has earned it a reputation as one of Tromsø’s best restaurants.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Hildr

Located at Skippergata, one of Tromsø’s oldest streets, Hildr opened its doors in 2015 as a family-friendly restaurant and meeting point for music, art and culture. Almost a decade later, the lively and charismatic restaurant has become a well-loved gem among locals as well as tourists. With its homey vibe, quirky decor, and fantastic location in the heart of Tromsø, Hildr has the feel of an intimate, authentic neighbourhood restaurant.

Set within a historic building dating back to 1833, the restaurant is run by husband-and-wife Marius and Gabriela Carlehed Jacobsen along with a dedicated team of friendly waiters, chefs and bartenders. Over the years, the building has served many functions, for instance

as a post office, a law office and a speciality tea shop. The illustrious building has also been the home of several writers, including the well-regarded author

Bernt Lie who wrote the novel that gave the restaurant its name, Hildr.

The venue’s literary and cultural history is quite literally part of its heritage – during a recent renovation, diaries, love letters and other writings were discovered under the floorboards. It’s a unique site for a restaurant, and its literary past inspired the design of Hildr’s charming bar in the style of a library. “When we first saw the building, we knew it was our kind of place – it has so much history and character,” Gabriela says. “With Hildr, we wanted to create a space where people could feel at home. We love to give people memorable experiences in a cosy atmosphere surrounded by friendly faces.”

The Hildr team believes that the atmosphere is almost as important as the food in a restaurant. “We pride ourselves on a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. We don’t care if you come in a black suit or a tracksuit – everybody’s welcome here,” Gabriela says.

Gastronomic experiences based on local ingredients

Utilising high-quality local ingredients is a key principle at Hildr, and the dynamic menu changes according to the season and the current inspiration of the chefs. With every effort made to use the best and most fresh ingredients from the region, Hildr’s dishes are inspired by the food traditions of Northern Norway as well as international flavours.

“Relying on fresh, locally sourced ingredients makes for better food you can enjoy with a clear conscience. In our experience, both locals and visitors to the region care about where the food comes from,” Gabriela explains. A lot of the ingredients are foraged from the Tromsø region’s bountiful forests, mountains and fjords, and the meat and fish used in the restaurant are all sourced from local fishermen and hunters.

Alongside carefully crafted tasting menus with optional drink pairings, Hildr serves exquisite meals according to what’s in season. The restaurant is known for authentic food designed to ex-

cite, inspire and surprise. “We like to experiment with taste and explore unusual flavour combinations. Our guests appreciate the playful, challenging element of our cooking,” says Gabriela. “A lot of people want to try something a little out of the ordinary. Tourists especially appreciate the food they don’t get at home, and which gives them better insight into the culture and culinary heritage in Tromsø.”

The tight-knit team behind Hildr values flexibility and innovative thinking when it comes to the food, and welcome people with all dietary requirements and restrictions. The menu favours pescetarian dishes due to the abundance of excellent fish and seafood in the region, and vegetarians and vegans are well-catered to. “We love to get creative, and can make something for everyone,” Gabriela says.

The last original town garden

Much like the food at Hildr, their extensive list of natural and organic wines, speciality beers and handcrafted cocktails is carefully curated with a focus on sustainability and local resources. “We want the drinks we serve to be of the best quality, and we use locally brewed beers and spirits as much as possible,” Gabriela explains.

Hildr also preserves local ingredients using traditional methods such as fermentation, pickling, drying and smoking and has its own smoker on the premises. The garden provides ingredients for culinary delights and has played host to many exciting social events. In fact, Hildr Garden is the last of Tromsø’s original town garden. Restored by talented botanists from Tromsø Botanical Garden in 2005, the garden features alpine plants and herbs used for cooking in the restaurant. The garden is also the home of Hildr’s annual Hagefestn, an intimate two-day festival celebrating local music, food and drinks.

Next year, Hildr will be celebrating its tenth anniversary. “Running the restaurant for almost a decade has been a lot of fun and a fantastic experience. Hildr is our passion project – it’s amazing looking back at everything we’ve done,” says Gabriela.

www.hildr.no

Facebook: Hildr

Instagram: @hildrrestaurant

Unforgettable nature, food and travel experiences in magical Senja

Hidden away in the innermost part of Torskenfjorden on the western side of the fairytale island Senja, you will find the tiny island community of Torsken. Among the unspoiled nature of this beautiful part of Northern Norway, a multitude of adventures in food, history, culture and unique travel experiences await.

By Maria Sødal Vole

Senja by Heart is a family business owned by brothers Fredd-Jarle and Vidkun Wilsgård. For generations, the family has had an unwavering commitment to contributing to the development of the local area. “This is a vibrant community that’s always seen plenty of activity within fishing, and it’s exciting that it’s now receiving more attention as a travel destination,” says Fredd-Jarle Wilsgård.

Torsken is an idyllic fishing village with a fascinating cultural heritage, and preserving the traditional coastal culture is a significant focus for the team behind Senja by Heart. The oldest part of Torsken Brygge Hotel and its charming pub dates to the 1930s. “Preserving the older buildings in Torsken is important to us. We wanted to ensure a modern standard for our guests while honouring the history of the community,” Wilsgård explains.

Senja by Heart offers several accommodations at Torskensenteret, Senja Fjordcamp and Torsken Brygge. Featuring high-quality furnishings and comfortable bedding, guests are assured a good night’s sleep. “There’s truly something for everybody, from simple rooms with a shared kitchen and living area well-suited to groups to modern cabins with a

traditional design and a comfortable penthouse apartment,” says Wilsgård. “We want to be able to receive groups of all sizes – our long-term plan is to have up to 100 beds available.” A new luxury lodge of high standard featuring multiple bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms will be opening in 2025.

Passion and unforgettable experiences

Often referred to as Norway in miniature, Senja is one of the country’s most celebrated tourist spots. “Lofoten has been an incredibly popular destination for a long time, but a lot of people are now discovering the many unique experiences Senja has to offer,” says Jørgen Wang, sales manager at Senja by Heart. “Nature here is diverse and fascinating –mountains, fjords and the unique coastal landscape offer so many unforgettable experiences.”

The area is known for its spectacular mountain hikes, stunning cycling routes, fishing opportunities, skiing, kayaking and much more, all of which can be arranged through Senja by Heart. The team advises those in search of truly unforgettable ad-

Chef Davide Luciani. Photo: Senja by Heart

Photo: Senja by Heart

ventures to take part in an RIB fjord tour or a whale and wildlife safari – especially during the times of year when you can experience such wonders as polar nights, northern lights and the midnight sun.

“As with anything in life, if there’s passion behind your work, it shines through,” Wilsgård says. “We’re so happy to get such a fantastic response from visitors on our accommodations, restaurant and pub as well as the wide range of experiences and activities we facilitate. We want to make sure this community continues to develop and are committed to showing visitors the best of what Senja has to offer.”

Authentic cuisine inspired by the North  Senja by Heart’s dedicated restaurant is one of the most celebrated eateries in the area. Originally hailing from Italy, Chef Davide Luciani’s illustrious background includes working in Michelin-starred restaurants in culinary hotspots such as London, Paris and Sydney. At Senja by Heart, the food is all made in-house. “Our food is authentic – a true reflection of the care, craftsmanship, and passion we put into every element,” Luciani says.

With a focus on fresh, sustainable seafood, locally foraged herbs and seasonal produce, Senja by Heart’s culinary offerings pay homage to the rich food traditions and proud cultural heritage of the area. “Our dishes are inspired by the rugged landscapes and the connection to nature that is so deeply rooted in Senja’s

culture,” Luciani says. “Through methods like smoking, curing, and fermenting, we honour the culinary practices passed down through generations, bringing a true taste of Senja to every plate.”

The restaurant team believes using the best of local ingredients is key to creating first-rate dishes. “When you work with what's fresh and in season, you’re not only ensuring the best possible flavours but also telling a story of the land and the people who cultivate it. Local ingredients connect the food to its environment, making each dish truly distinctive and reflective of the area’s natural bounty,” Luciani explains. “This approach also supports sustainability and the local

community, which adds an extra layer of meaning to the dining experience.”

Having achieved a Green Key certification, Senja by Heart is actively working to ensure environmentally friendly practices across the organisation. “Sustainability is important to us,” Wilsgård says. “We’re conscious of maintaining a long-term perspective and doing our part to ensure the tourism in the area is sustainable in terms of the environment and from a social perspective. Our activity should be beneficial for the community as a whole.”

www.senjabyheart.no

Facebook: Senja by heart Instagram: @senjabyheart

Photo: Senja by Heart

Photo: Senja by Heart

Photo: Senja by Heart

Photo: Hugo Løhre

Arctic wonders and Norwegian winter fun

Tucked away on the charming Norwegian island of Skjervøy awaits the most stunning sights. For an Arctic experience like no other, seek out Explore 70 Degrees and dabble in whale safaris or an aurora borealis snowshoe hike this winter.

With the colder seasons approaching, urban life can become rather drab and grey. As the hustle and bustle of summer turns into a slurry slush, you might find that the confines of the city are growing smaller. The solution? Look to the enchanting fishing village on the island of Skjervøy.

Situated in the Arctic region of Norway, the island is home to majestic mountains

and fresh sea breeze, as well as nearby glaciers and the one and only aurora borealis, whose green-and-blue tendrils can be seen dancing against the clear night sky. For those seeking true adventure and connection to nature, local activity providers Explore 70 Degrees can help. “We offer a range of nature-related activities, both on land and at sea all year round,” says Susanne Strøm, CEO and owner.

As winter approaches, visitors should make sure to catch a whale tour or partake in a snowshoe hike to watch the Northern Lights. With a knowledgeable and passionate team, Explore 70 Degrees promises a high-quality experience in beautiful nature with storytelling.

The crew of Explore 70 Degrees is passionate about nature and wildlife. “Every

By Celina Tran

time we hit the sea or go for a hike, we feel blessed and impressed by how Mother Nature presents herself,” says Strøm. “While you’re here, you should also check out the many places of accommodation that Skjervøy has to offer for a cosy stay.”

www.explore70.no Instagram: @explore70degrees

Photo: Explore 70 Degrees

Fantastic travel experiences off the beaten track in Northern Norway

Nestled within breathtaking surroundings near the picturesque island of Dyrøy in the Arctic Circle, Camp Solbergfjord is the perfect base for exploring Northern Norway. The small, family-run business provides a wealth of experiences among the stunning nature and rich cultural tapestry of the region.

By Maria Sødal Vole

Located in Brøstadbotn, Green Key-certified Camp Solbergfjord is a proudly family-friendly destination. This fun and lively spot near Dyrøy offers accommodation for up to 20 people in five modern, well-equipped cabins in the style of the traditional rorbuer used by fishermen in coastal Norway. The cabins’ spacious terraces offer extraordinary opportunities to enjoy the fascinating sight of the northern lights or midnight sun depending on the time of year.

“Staying in our wooden cabins in these surroundings by the sea and enjoying the peace and quiet with a spectacular view of beautiful Senja, is an experience in itself,” says Marit Alvig Espenes, who runs Camp Solbergfjord. Alongside the sustainably built cabins with Scandinavian design, visitors can also spend the night at the location’s camping site.

The Senja region is one of more than 50 locations in Norway to have been labelled a sustainable destination, which means that the destination works systematically to develop sustainable tourism. With its multitude of natural and cultural activities and excursions, this is a fantastic destination all year round.

“This is a remarkable place with magnificent nature experiences and interesting local culture, history, and culinary tra-

ditions waiting to be discovered,” adds Alvig Espenes. “Preserving the area is important to us, and we welcome people to explore it sustainably.”

www.solbergfjord.com

Facebook: Camp Solbergfjord

Instagram: @solbergfjord

Photo: Renommé

Photo: Renommé

Photo: Stein Eirik Simonsen

Photo: Renommé

Photo: Renommé

MiniTheme: GUIDETOLOFOTEN

Unforgettable hotel experiences in the heart of Henningsvær

At the southwestern tip of Austvågøya in the Lofoten archipelago, a small coastal community offers unforgettable experiences in one of the most interesting parts of Norway. With a deep appreciation for local heritage and culture and a commitment to providing unique travel experiences, the new hotel concept Henningsvær Bryggehotell has opened its doors.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Classic Norway Hotels

Known for its charming wooden cabins, scenic harbour and beautiful location, the tiny fishing village of Henningsvær is located on several small islands in historic Vågan. Fishing in Henningsvær dates back to the 1500s, and it might be Norway’s most well-known fishing village. “Preserving the heritage of the area is important to us,” says Magnus Kalvøy, general manager at Henningsvær Bryggehotell. “As a protected and active fishing village, Henningsvær has a fascinating history and culture that remains alive and well.”

Appreciation of and harmonious coexistence with Henningsvær’s spectacular nature is a guiding principle of the hotel. Here, visitors can let the striking land-

scape become an intimate part of their experience. Henningsvær Bryggehotell is the latest addition to the hotel chain Classic Norway Hotels. “The rooms are large with big windows, allowing for a

fantastic view of the natural surroundings,” says Anja Beisland, area manager for the Lofoten region at Classic Norway Hotels. “Being so close to nature provides an extraordinary experience – waking up to a spectacular view of the mountaintops outside your window is unforgettable.”

The perfect blend of modernity and tradition

Consisting of eight buildings, the hotel complex is located on a newly designed quay overlooking the water. Its design is inspired by the classic architecture and local building traditions of Northern Norway. “Our buildings represent a mix of modern luxury and traditional architecture,” says Kalvøy. “In terms of design, we gravitated towards the classic colours that have been used for these types of buildings in coastal Norway – yellow ochre, white, and red.”

Whilst a big hotel building might dominate the landscape, these eight smaller buildings in the typical style of the area blend in with the surroundings. Across the Lo-

foten region, you will come across plenty of these charming rorbuer, traditional wooden fisherman’s cabins, that the hotel was modelled on. “Henningsvær has such an unusual atmosphere. The area’s history and culture can be seen everywhere –being here can feel as though you’re going back in time,” says Beisland.

Sustainable tourism and delicious cuisine

Sustainability is a key focus of Classic Norway Hotels. The Eco-Lighthouse certified business is committed to protecting the climate and environment through varied initiatives. “The Lofoten area has become such a popular destination, and we want to help ensure that the increased travel to the region is as sustainable as possible,” Beisland says.

The commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of the hotel operations, including its dedicated restaurant

which relies heavily on locally sourced ingredients and regional suppliers. Located on the idyllic quay, Vind Brasserie is the perfect spot for enjoying the fantastic view of the sea and mountains. With its rustic decor and open kitchen, the modern restaurant is designed to be comfortable and inviting. Vind Brasserie offers Nordic fare based on seasonal ingredients from the area, such as mushrooms and cloudberries as well as Lofoten lamb and of course fish from the region. “We have fantastic local produce,” says Kalvøy. “Fish from Lofoten is the best in the world!”

Varied hotel experiences across Lofoten

Classic Norway Hotels has been well-represented in Lofoten for many years. Alongside the newly built Henningsvær Bryggehotell, the chain offers several other options in the region. All locations provide excellent comfort and a high level of service, and rooms are equipped with high-quality Wonderland beds and mattresses so a good night’s sleep is almost guaranteed.

Nyvågar Rorbuhotell in historic Storvågan is a fantastic option, especially for food and drink connoisseurs and those looking to recharge their batteries. The hotel’s wellness area with outdoor heated hot tubs and sauna with large windows offers fantastic views of the mountain range and Vestfjord. Alongside a restaurant serving homemade food based on the best local ingredients, guests can also enjoy a loft bar featuring one of the world’s largest collections of aquavit, the classic Scandinavian distilled spirit.

Located at the tip of the Lofoten Peninsula, Å Rorbuer provides uniquely Nordic experiences up close and personal with breathtaking nature. These refurbished traditional fishing cabins are the ideal base for exploring the wild and wonderful landscape.

Another gem is Reine Rorbuer, beautifully situated at the entrance to the Reinefjord in West Lofoten, overlooking the spectacular blue waters of the Arctic Ocean. Reine is a true gem of Northern Norway, and photography lovers will adore this picturesque little fishing village. And the vibrant boutique hotel Villa Bryggekanten on the island of Heimøya provides a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Featuring a cosy wine bar, this intimate waterfront hotel is the perfect spot for a relaxing holiday.

www.henningsvaer.no

Instagram: @henningsvaerbryggehotell

From ship to shore: Hurtigrutemuseet’s tribute to Norway's legendary coastal voyages

Located in Stokmarknes, Hurtigrutemuseet is a museum dedicated to preserving and conveying the history of Hurtigruten – the lifeline of Norway’s coast for more than 130 years.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Bjørn Eide

Norway’s famous coastal express, Hurtigruten, has long played a central role in both maritime history and the history of coastal communities. The very first Norwegian coastal express company was founded by Captain Richard With in Stokmarknes in 1893, so it’s only fitting that a museum in its honour should be established 100 years later in the very same place.

“Hurtigrutemuseet is a tribute to the people and communities that have shaped Norway’s coastline for over a century. Hurtigruten is a symbol of connection— linking remote villages, transporting goods, and opening doors to the world,” says Aliz-Katalin Fülöp, marketing and events manager at Hurtigrutemuseet.

The museum combines traditional exhibitions with modern technology, includ-

ing interactive screens, recordings, and visual set-ups to give visitors a complete deep dive into the history of Hurtigruten.

“Our biggest attraction, MS Finnmarken (1956), is an authentic motor ship, where visitors may explore the ship and learn of how life was on board,” says Fülöp.

“In addition to exploring the old cabins, halls, and machinery, you can enjoy a delicious meal in the dining hall from 1956.”

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, Hurtigrutemuseet often set up different temporary exhibitions that seek to explore relevant topics, such as environment, coastal culture, and technology. “As a museum, we believe it’s our job to take care of the objects and stories that make up Hurtigruten’s rich heritage,” she explains. “We want to bridge a gap between past and future, and show how the coastal express is still relevant in today’s society,

both as a mode of transport and as an important part of Norwegian travel life.”

Fülöp adds; In addition to continuing the development of the museum as a node of coastal history, the local community, and Hurtigruten’s modern history, we want to continue integrating more about the environment in our exhibitions, especially as Hurtigruten is setting off on a new journey of greener technology and more sustainable travel products.”

www.hurtigrutemuseet.no

Facebook: Hurtigrutemuseet

Instagram: @hurtigrutemuseet

Visit Hurtigrutemuseet! Richard Withs Plass 1, 8450 Stokmarknes, Norway

Attraction of The Month, Estonia

Step into the pages of a history book

Visiting the Estonian Open Air Museum is like travelling back in time. Located on the outskirts of Tallinn, the museum gives you an insight into the daily life of families with different wealth and skills. Here, you can truly experience how people used to live in Estonia.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: The Estonian Open Air Museum

Nestled in the middle of a picturesque forest by the sea just 15 minutes from Tallinn’s Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), you find the Estonian Open Air Museum. Here, you can breathe in the fresh air, while feeling as though you are transported into the pages of a history book.

“At the Estonian Open Air Museum, you are travelling back in time to a small village where, besides farmhouses, you will find a church, a roadside tavern, a schoolhouse, mills, a fire station, a village shop, and fishing net sheds by the sea,” says Tõnis Tamm, marketing specialist at the museum.

The museum village is arranged to represent different regions: Western Estonia, Northern Estonia, Southern Estonia, and

the Estonian islands. The buildings have been sourced from all over Estonia and have been rebuilt authentically. Much emphasis is given to recreating historical landscapes and the preservation of heritage plants. The exhibition also includes a Soviet-era collective farm apartment building, which was awarded Best Permanent Exhibition in 2021.

Experience Estonian traditions

“Depending on season and weather, you can ride a horse-drawn carriage or a sleigh, or discover the museum on a bicycle or a push sled,” says Tamm. In summer, a one-kilometre adventure trail with plenty of hands-on activities is open to kids and they can even see animals at the different farms. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Estonian homecooked food in

the Kolu Inn. And the Lau village shops sell goods from the 1930s, from sweets to garden tools.

All buildings are open during summer and, in most of them, visitors are welcomed by a farmer or a housewife who, in addition to telling exciting stories, introduce visitors to the work and activities on the farm. The museum truly is a brilliant way to experience the life and traditions of different parts of Estonia.

www.evm.ee/en

Facebook: Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum / Estonian Open Air Museum

Instagram: @eestivabaohumuuseum

Attraction of The Month, Sweden

Everyday objects that changed the world

Get to know the Nobel Prize laureates and their accomplishments by visiting  These things changed the world, an exhibition at Stockholm’s Nobel Prize Museum which for the first time is displaying a large selection of curious artefacts belonging to Nobel Prize laureates over the years.

By Emma Rodin  | Photos: © Nobel Prize Outreach, photo: Clément Morin and Nanaka Adachi.

The objects featured in the exhibition These things changed the world tell stories of remarkable discoveries and life achievements. Through these stories, you will discover how your life and the world you live in have changed thanks to researchers, authors and activists who have worked in the fields of science, literature and peace. It is their discoveries and accomplishments which have been awarded the Nobel Prize and continuously give us new perspectives on our lives and the world.

“Every year, new artefacts are added to our collection and we can now display more than 250 of these at the same time,” says Erika Lanner, director of the Nobel Prize Museum. “There are stories of great discoveries, courageous peace efforts and innovative literature hidden in everyday objects such as a suitcase, a pair of scissors or a jar of peanut butter. These items also provide new and unexpected knowledge about the people behind the Nobel Prizes.”

A home for transformational ideas

The Nobel Prize shows that ideas can change the world and the courage, creativity and perseverance of the Nobel Prize laureates inspire and give us hope for the future. These ideas are celebrated at the museum, which is located in the Old

These things changed the world tells stories of remarkable discoveries and life achievements.

Town of Stockholm and is open to everyone looking to expand their horizons. At the museum, which is known for its inspirational exhibitions, visitors will meet scientists, authors and freedom fighters who have all contributed to the greatest benefit to humankind. Ever since 1901, the Nobel Prize has been awarded in line with Alfred Nobel’s vision, and at the museum, the stories of the Nobel Prize laureates come to life through artefacts, guided tours and videos.

Although the museum makes for a great Sunday outing, why not start the weekend here? The Nobel Prize Museum is open on Friday nights, so take the opportunity to pop by to get something to eat and drink while soaking up inspiration. What’s more, the museum also offers concerts, literary or scientific talks, fun quiz nights and food or drink tastings. Keep an eye out for the museum’s social

media handles and website to see what the next Friday night is set to offer.

At the Nobel Prize Museum, children can enjoy themselves as much as adults. Let them channel their inner treasure hunters, experiment in the workshop or play in the Bubble Chamber, a room designed for fun and play. Once their energy has run out, you can pop by Bistro Nobel to try the famous Nobel ice cream, one of the museum’s highlights and a must. And remember to visit the museum shop on your way out to pick up a souvenir or two.

Into the future with the Nobel Center

In the spirit of change and discovery, a future member of the Nobel family is set to open in the coming years. The Nobel Center will be a house for science, culture and dialogue and will be located along the Stadsgårdskajen waterfront next to Slussen in central Stockholm.

The centre will offer a wide range of public activities including exhibitions, school programmes, lectures and conversations about the major challenges of the future. The outreach activities being conducted around the world, digitally and at the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm’s Old Town today, will be further developed and scaled up for the opening of the Nobel Center.

The Erling-Persson Foundation and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation are financing the construction of the building together with the Nobel Foundation. David Chipperfield Architects is designing the Nobel Center and construction is scheduled to begin in 2027.

In the meantime, there is plenty to keep you busy at the Nobel Prize Museum, whether you want to learn more about Alfred Nobel or discover the objects that have changed the world.

www.nobelprizemuseum.se Instagram: @nobelprizemuseum

The exhibition These things changed the world is a permanent exhibition at the Nobel Prize Museum and is open for the public Tuesday to Sunday.

A home for transformational ideas.

Experience of The Month, Norway

A paleo-party: dinosaurs arrive at Oslo’s natural history museum

Get ready to travel back in time – 74 million years to be exact – because two new dinosaurs are stomping their way into Oslo’s Natural History Museum! Nestled in the heart of Tøyen, this museum is already a treasure trove of fossils, dazzling crystals, and ancient mysteries. With the arrival of two real dinosaur skeletons, there’s never been a better time to visit the museum.

By Celina Tran  | Photos: NHM Oslo

Naturhistorisk Museum, or the Natural History Museum in Oslo, is one of Norway’s most cherished cultural and scientific institutions. Located within the beautiful surroundings of the Botanical Garden, the museum offers a remarkable journey through the Earth's history, focusing on geology, palaeontology, climate change and botany.

“As part of the University of Oslo, we serve as both an academic institution and a mu-

seum with objects that date back millions of years,” explains Jørn Hurum, professor of palaeontology. “What’s on display is only a fraction of our vast collection, which we’re always working to expand.”

Founded in 1811 as part of the University of Oslo, the museum's collections even predate the University. For example, its geological collections date back to 1757, originally from the Mining Academy in Kongsberg. Furthermore, the museum's researchers regularly travel to locations like Svalbard to unearth fossils, expanding the collection and knowledge of prehistoric life.

Zara and Zelda take on Oslo

For dino devotees, the Natural History Museum just became a lot more exciting

with the addition of two new dinosaur skeletons, which were unveiled to the public at the end of September. These two hypracosaurs, plant-eating dinosaurs from the hadrosaur family, were discovered together in the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in North America.

“The larger specimen, a fully-grown adult of 7.5 metres long, is accompanied by a smaller, younger individual measuring 3.5 metres. These dinosaurs, Zara and Zelda, are both around 74 million years old, and offer the museum an opportunity to delve into the growth and family dynamics of these fascinating creatures,” says Hurum.

The discovery of the two dinosaurs together is significant, as it allows researchers to study their development stages from juvenile to adult. This also opens a window into their behaviours, including nest-building and care for their young—a subject that has intrigued scientists for years. Purchased by Sparebankstiftelsen DNB, the dinosaurs Zara and Zelda have been indefinitely loaned to the museum, ensuring that generations of visitors will have the chance to marvel at the prehistoric giants for generations to come.

“While we have the head of a Triceratops, this is the first time not just one, but two complete dinosaur skeletons will be exhibited in Norway,” says Hurum. “It’s an incredibly exciting thing, and we hope it’ll encourage more people to come learn more about the dinosaurs.

“Dinosaurs are far from just static exhibits, but rather a wonderful gateway for educating people about life, history, evolution, and of course, humans,” he explains. They serve as conversation starters, sparking questions that range from the dinosaurs' familial behaviour to comparisons with modern animals like crocodiles and birds. By drawing these connections, the museum aims to make Earth’s long and complex history more relatable and understandable.

Learn about the past, present and future And while you’re at the museum, learning all about Zara and Zelda and their lives, why not check out the rest of the Geology exhibits? A newly transformed space, the Geology Museum spans four floors and boasts some of the finest crystal formations, fossils, and skeletal displays from around the world. This

was one of the reasons why the museum was voted Museum of the Year in Norway in 2023.

If you are interested in dinosaurs, geology, or Norwegian natural history, Oslo's Natural History Museum is a must-visit destination to learn about our planet's past, present, and future. With the addition of the new dinosaur exhibits and ongoing research initiatives, the museum continues to be a fun space of education and activity for people of all ages.

Visit the Natural History Museum in Oslo! Naturhistorisk Museum

Sars’ gate 1 0562 Oslo, Norway

www.nhm.uio.no

Facebook: Naturhistorisk museum, Oslo

Instagram: @naturhistorisk_museum_oslo

How to get there by public transport: All metros to Tøyen or Bus 20 to Tøyenparken.

Photo: Zoic srl- Trieste

Experience of The Month, Finland

Helsinki International Horse Show: Equestrian excellence

Every year, Helsinki becomes the epicentre of equestrian excitement as the Helsinki International Horse Show takes centre stage. Drawing in massive crowds of over 50,000 spectators, this event offers a thrilling showcase of world-class horse jumpers in action. From 2026, the five-star event faces three significant changes to further improve audience experience.

By Malin Norman

The Helsinki International Horse Show is the largest annual indoor arena event in Finland. The EVENT sees world-class horse jumpers vying for victory in the prestigious Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier. “In 1985, my colleague, Patrick Lagus, and I wanted to create the world’s best equestrian competition. Nearly four decades later, the event is more successful than ever,” says Tom Gordin, director of the event.

This year’s Helsinki Horse Show will be held at the Helsinki Ice Hall from 23 to 27 October. The event has seen most of the top international riders competing over the years. For the upcoming event, the Olympic champion and multiple Swiss medallist Steve Guerdat has confirmed his participa-

tion, together with world champion Jens Fredricson from Sweden. By 26 September, all top riders will be announced.

A two-heart sport

Equestrian excellence is at the heart of the Helsinki International Horse Show, where the bond between rider and horse takes centre stage. Each year, this event captivates audiences from around the world with its fast-paced action and breathtaking jump-offs, showcasing the skill and dedication of top riders from across the globe.

At the show, the emotional connection between the jumper and the horse is palpable in every stride. “This is truly a top jumping sport, and our event is thrilling for absolutely everyone. I call it a sport of two hearts: the rider’s and the horse’s. It’s magical seeing how they share an emotional connection and work together to achieve amazing things,” says Gordin.

Tickets for the event are on sale until October, and there are a number of hospitality packages for those who want to pamper themselves and enjoy the show from a ringside table or private lounge – or have access to the VIP Lounge and a stylish VIP

Grand Trophy Victoria Gulliksen and Equine America Papa Roach. Photo: Satu Pirinen

World cup. Photo: Satu Pirinen

Buffet, to mention a few. In addition to the main event, there is also the traditional Horse Expo, a marketplace boasting close to 80 exhibitors from across the globe showcasing their products and services to horse enthusiasts and professionals alike.

A world-leading sustainable event

One thing the people behind the Helsinki Horse Show are proud of is its commitment to sustainability. Between 2022 and 2023, the Horse Show decreased its carbon footprint by nearly 11 percent – a result verified using a carbon footprint calculator developed by the Helsinki Horse Show. It is reportedly the first carbon footprint calculator – or playfully named the Carbon Hoofprint calculator, specifically designed for equestrian events.

Throughout the years, the Helsinki Horse Show has received numerous international awards for its environmental initiatives, and the show is recognised by The International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) as a model event for sustainable development.

“We are one of the country’s largest annual sporting events and our vision is to be the world-leading sustainable equestrian event. We encourage everyone – our subcontractors and partners, as well as visitors and riders – to contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing ecological practices,” Gordin says.

From the nail-biting competitions to the bustling Horse Expo featuring 80 exhib-

itors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating the elegance and power of the magnificent animals. “The show is an exciting mix of ultimate top sport and entertainment,” Gordin adds. “It’s a thrilling experience, and a fantastic way to see some of the world’s best horses and riders doing what they do best.”

Valtteri Gundersby appointed as new CEO

From 2026, Helsinki Horse Show will move permanently to larger premises at the Helsinki Fair Centre. “After ten years in the Ice Hall, which has served as an excellent home for the Horse Show, we’re moving to a bigger venue. At the Fair Centre, the entire event infrastructure will be indoors with a significantly larger competition arena,” explains Gordin. “Ultimately, we get better use of the space and can reach a broader audience – and

we can continue to develop this worldclass event further.”

Helsinki Horse Show will also change the date and from 2026 it will be held in late February, thus becoming the final event in the Western European World Cup League. And last but not least, Valtteri Gundersby, a 31-year-old lawyer and equestrian, has taken over leadership responsibilities as the new CEO of the organising company, BCM Scanhorse Ltd. Gordin will continue over a three-year transition period.

For tickets and hospitality services: www.ticketmaster.fi

www.helsinkihorseshow.fi

Facebook: HelsinkiHorseShow

Instagram: @helsinkihorseshow

• Helsinki Horse Show runs from 23 to 27 October and is held at Helsinki Ice Hall

• Keep an eye out for the full event line-up of top riders, which will be announced on 26 September 2024

Helsinki International Horse Show in numbers:

• 50,000 visitors expected

• runs over five full days

• 60 international top riders with 150 horses

• 240 domestic riders and horses have the opportunity to ride with the stars

The Helsinki Jäähalli transformed into a great Horse Arena. Photo: Helsinki International Horse Show

World Cup Richard Howley and Consulent de Prelet Z.

Photo: Satu Pirinen

Experience of The Month, Finland

Explore history and coastal life on Finland’s Baltic coast

For those interested in maritime history and looking to explore the southeast corner of Finland, take an hour’s drive from Helsinki to the coastal town of Kotka, home to the Maritime Centre Vellamo. Or, take the train and arrive at the port of Kotka. Vellamo’s modern, architecturally stunning building houses both the national Maritime Museum of Finland and the regional Kymenlaakso Museum.

By Molly McPharlin

The Maritime Museum presents different themes in its exhibitions, such as shipwrecks, the sea trade, and winter navigation. The Kymenlaakso Museum concentrates on the history of Kotka and the region of Kymenlaakso – the sea, the river Kymijoki, and the forest industry, amongst other things.

Vellamo offers a wide range of exhibits in both its venues. “Over the years, we’ve had exhibitions as varied as sea monsters and Finnish glass design, to the history of wedding traditions, sailor’s tattoos, and maritime fashion,” says Marja Puukka, information officer at Vellamo. “During summer, the museum vessels by the quay are also open to the public – an old icebreaker, a lightship, and a patrol vessel.”

This is a destination for all ages. Children love the hands-on activities; steering a hydrocopter, experiencing how to lift an anchor, or learning to make different knots.

And teenagers and adults can delve into history and art. “As we have two museums, we offer something for everyone,” says Puukka. “A common remark from our visitors is that they hope to come back as they couldn’t see everything the first time.”

Some of the most popular exhibitions are Fateful Svensksund, which tells the story of important naval battles and a fortress city that is linked to the history of Kotka. The Kymenlaakso Museum also offers Shifting to Wood, a tribute to the Kymenlaakso forest industry, as well as the Never Never Town exhibit, a fun adventure for children to experience with accompanying adults. An exhibition on Finland’s iconic Moomins will open at the Maritime Museum in 2025.

In addition to exhibitions, Vellamo houses a restaurant, museum shop, and a variety of meeting and event spaces. The building is easy to navigate even for those with

additional needs, and wheelchairs, walkers and adjustable walking sticks are on offer to borrow. For families, Vellamo is well-designed and offers an abundance of interactive activities. All under 18 visitors are welcome free of charge.

Besides Vellamo, Kotka is an attractive coastal town with numerous prize-winning parks and an appealing seafront. “It’s lovely in summer with the historic Imperial Fishing Lodge at Langinkoski open, as is the Svensksund Pavilion on the nearby Varissaari island,” reflects Puukka. “As the city centre is surrounded by the Baltic Sea, the maritime views can be admired all year round.”

www.merikeskusvellamo.fi

Facebook: Merikeskus Vellamo

Instagram: @merikeskusvellamo

Youtube: Merikeskus Vellamo

Photo: Harri Tarvainen

Photo: Jussi Tiainen

Photo: Soile Tirilä

Experience of The Month, Greenland

Explore Greenland’s wilderness

For those seeking a unique and active way to explore Greenland, AdvenTours.gl in Kangerlussuaq offers an exciting opportunity to experience the Arctic wilderness, namely on E-fatbikes.

By Celina Tran | Photos: AdvenTours.gl

With rolling mountains as far as the eye can see, and the brilliant dancing light of Aurora Borealis above, travellers to Greenland are bound to fall in love with the country’s landscape. In Kangerlussuaq, AdvenTours.gl offers a chance to truly explore every nook and cranny of this breathtaking nature with electric fatbikes.

A fatbike, also known as a snowbike or beach cruiser, is an offroad bicycle with oversized tyres. AdvenTours.gl’s electric versions allow travellers to see the most of Greenland sustainably. “We want to encourage tourists and locals to be more sustainable and active as they explore Greenland,” says Christian Pihlblad Jerimiassen, a park ranger and founder of AdvenTours. gl. “It’s a particularly interesting option for tourists who get the chance to see the icecap without having to worry about travel arrangements or other passengers and to experience at their own pace.”

Many of the AdvenTours.gl customers are hikers from all over the world who look to hike the Arctic Circle Trail between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut. The end of the challenging hike does not need to mean the end of their wanderlust, but the rest of the journey is certainly made easier and more effortless with the E-fatbikes.

“The bikes are a good way to discover the icecaps 35 kilometres east of Kangerlussuaq, where you can camp at the edge of the icecap overnight,” says Pihlblad Jerimiassen. “The bikes can also be used as a mode of transportation for muskox or reindeer safaris too, or just to explore local neighbourhoods and towns.”

If you are feeling adventurous, the founder recommends taking on the picturesque challenge of riding the 206.5 kilometres from the icecap at the mid-west coast of Greenland to the Davis Strait over four days. “This will be possible to

do on the ATV road set to be opened 5. October 2024.” he says. “The road was being tested on Bike Ultimo July Primo in August 2024 by bikepacking enthusiasts who have the experience to mark and recommend potential bikepacking routes around the world.”

The team also offers guided group tours with operators in Kangerlussuaq. If you want to explore on your own or with a bit of help, Jerimiassen has endless recommendations and information about the local area and is here to guide you along the way.

www.adventours.gl

Facebook: AdvenTours.gl

Instagram: @adventours.gl @adventours_gl

Youtube: Adventours.Greenland

Camping near Icecap point 660.

Customers park the E-fatbikes at the edge of Icecap Point 660.

Park ranger Pihlblad Jerimiassen guides the bikepacking enthusiasts around the UNESCO World Heritage Aasivissuit – Nipisat.

Christian Pihlblad Jerimiassen, owner, with bikepacking enthusiasts Thomas Steinthal and Jørgen Højlund Wibe.

Distillery of The Month, Finland

Where heritage meets artistry in every sip

Founded in 2022 on a historic farm in Monninkylä, Finland, this distillery and brewery combines centuries-old tradition with present-day craftsmanship.

By Ndéla Faye

With roots stretching back to 1603, the Pelto-Uljas farm has been passed down through 17 generations, with current owner Ilkka Uljas now continuing his family’s legacy, when he will be processing grains from his own field. Located just a half-hour drive from Helsinki, the organic farm with its traditional pastures now produces gin – with the aim of one day producing whiskey and beer as well. The handicraft and use of renewable energy reflect a deep respect for tradition, quality, and sustainability.

Historically, the farm delivered bread baked from the farm’s flour to Helsinki by horse cart. Today, the farm’s organically grown grains are turned into premium spirits. “Our grains are of very high quality, making them the perfect base for the distillery,” says Uljas. While whiskey production is the long-term goal, the distillery’s dry gin has already gained international recognition, winning silver at the 2024 London Spirits Competition. “I used my friends as tasters, and they loved it – but I was worried they were just

being polite. The written feedback and score of 95 out of 100 was confirmation that the spirit really is excellent,” Uljas laughs.

The award-winning gin is crafted using juniper berries and sea buckthorn, delivering a unique blend of dry, spicy, and soft flavours. Quality and sustainability are a priority at the distillery. Prepared by renewable energy, the gin is offered in both premium glass bottles and sustainable PET bottles, which are lightweight and infinitely recyclable. “People often avoid plastic, but our recycled PET bottles are environmentally friendly, with a lower carbon footprint compared to glass,” Uljas explains.

Beyond producing spirits, the farm also operates Mirri & Murri Holiday Farm, a pet-friendly, cage-free hotel for cats and dogs. Visitors can enjoy private distillery tours and a diverse scenery where, in the summer, Ratia Ranch Highland cattle are out on the pastures. There are plans to expand the farm into an immersive ex-

perience destination. “We want people to see, feel, and taste the entire process, from field to bottle,” says Uljas, envisioning a future where the farm becomes a sensory experience hub.

Honouring its rich heritage while embracing innovation, this farm-based distillery offers an exciting glimpse into sustainable, handcrafted spirits. Combining passion with history, it is set to make waves in the world of whiskey and gin for years to come.

www.uljasdb.fi

Facebook: uljasdb

Instagram: @uljasdb

Photo: Juha Vääräkangas

Photo: Juha Vääräkangas

Photo: Uljas Distillery & Brewery

Eat, drink and have a good time.

Restaurant of The Month, Sweden

Hang out at Yono Sabo

Stockholm’s new hub for great food and socialising is called Yono Sabo. Made by friends, for friends, this Mexican-inspired, street food-style eatery serves up delicious food with Asian elements. But more importantly, Yano Sabo is somewhere to relax, hang out and just have a good time.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Yono Sabo

Think bistro-style menus with fresh and playful flavours and you have a nice-sounding restaurant. Add a bit of Mexican flair, DJ sets and great-tasting cocktails and you have Yono Sabo. “One of our co-founders, who also heads up our kitchen, is part Mexican which has obviously helped shape the restaurant’s offering, but I would say we’re a lot more than that,” says co-founder Otto Nord. “We don’t like to put ourselves in a box, the important thing for us is that we offer great food in a welcoming atmosphere. It’s that simple, really,”

Whether it’s lunch, post-work drinks or dinner, the hype around Yono Sabo is spread wide. The menu features burritos, bowls and classic tacos while the bar is home to fun cocktails rustled up by talented bartenders. And while visits on

school nights are slightly more reserved, the volume gets turned up at weekends, often with live music included. “During the European Football Championship this past summer, we built a deck outside the restaurant, brought in some screens and basically created a mini fan zone together with neighbouring businesses. The atmosphere was incredible,” says Nord.

By friends, for friends

Yono Sabo is a true family affair, or a friendly one at least. Because almost every part of the establishment has been created in partnership with people from the founders’ social group, in which there is a fair bit of talent. “One of our friends designed the bar while a gallerist we know sourced the art. Another friend designed the graphical elements on our menus and a fourth has a micro-brewery whose beer we sell,” ex-

plains Nord. “It’s nice being able to bring everyone’s passions together and create something fun.”

Looking ahead, Yono Sabo is set to launch a Mexican-style Christmas theme come December. This will include large, family-style sharing platters with specially selected dishes for friends and family to enjoy together. And if these platters are anything like the current offering, tables are likely to get booked up fast. So don’t hang about, good times are waiting.

www.yonosabo.se

Instagram: @yonosabosthlm

Restaurant of The Month, Norway

Helt Vilt: a culinary adventure through Norway's wilderness

At Helt Vilt, the mission is clear: to bring the wild to the people of the city and show visitors the traditional dishes and wonderful flavours that nature provides. Nestled in Oslo’s renowned food hall, Mathallen Oslo, Helt Vilt provides a unique dining experience that transports diners into Norway’s untamed wilderness.

By Celina Tran

As a one-of-a-kind restaurant, Helt Vilt serves up juicy wild game burgers, tender steaks, and traditional Norwegian dishes with a creative twist. This familyowned eatery brings the authentic flavours of the forests and mountains straight to your table.

The name Helt Vilt carries a clever double meaning. In Norwegian it translates to completely wild, reflecting both the restaurant's focus on wild game and its adventurous spirit. The phrase also suggests something exciting and out of the

ordinary, embodying Helt Vilt’s playful yet rooted approach to dining, offering high-quality food at reasonable prices.

Oslo's hidden gem for wild game and local cuisine

The atmosphere at Helt Vilt is as inviting as its menu. With an interior resembling a cosy mountain cabin with warm wooden accents and large windows overlooking the Akerselva River, this is the ideal spot for a relaxed meal after exploring Oslo. Helt Vilt is perfect for both locals and visitors looking to experience something completely wild in the city.

At Helt Vilt, every meal is crafted from scratch. From slow-cooked stews and rich sauces simmered for hours on game bones to homemade spring rolls filled with wild boar and moose, each dish is

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

prepared with love, care, and attention to detail. Burgers are made to order, and meats are grilled over a Robata flame grill, giving a bold, smoky flavour.

Flavours with a creative twist

Helt Vilt’s creativity shines in its menu, where traditional flavours meet innovative twists. Popular dishes include wild game burgers with unique toppings like aquavit sauce on the Tipsy Moose Burger or brown cheese with cloudberry sauce on the Arctic Moose Burger. The menu also includes tender steaks from moose, deer, reindeer, and kangaroo, alongside hearty favourites like the rich, creamy reindeer stew and the seasonal classic, fårikål.

To complement the meal, Helt Vilt offers a handpicked selection of wine, beer, aquavit, mead, and other Norwegian beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, for the complete dining experience.

During the holiday season, Helt Vilt becomes a popular gathering spot for julebord, the Norwegian tradition of festive feasts with family, friends, or colleagues. It's the perfect place to enjoy the holiday spirit with delicious Christmas dishes.

A small shop with big flavours

Helt Vilt also features a small shop where visitors can buy and take home unique items sourced from small Sami producers.

Specialties include dried reindeer meat, reindeer tongue and reindeer heart snacks, and a variety of salamis including moose, reindeer, and whale. Aquavit and spruce tip jelly are also available, making perfect gifts or pantry additions to savour the wild flavours of Norway long after the visit.

Sustainability and connection to nature

Most of the food at Helt Vilt is sourced from animals that live freely in their nat-

ural habitats, without the need for industrial farming practices, and comes from small-scale producers. Wild game is a healthier alternative to conventional meats – leaner, higher in protein, and free from hormones and antibiotics.

Photo: Mathallen Oslo

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

Sourcing through regulated hunting maintains ecological balance, reduces environmental impact, and supports local ecosystems, making it an eco-friendly and ethical choice for diners.

Whether you are a local foodie or a curious traveller, Helt Vilt offers an exciting dining experience which is truly wild. Taste the untamed flavours of Norway's wilderness in the heart of Oslo – because at Helt Vilt, every meal is an adventure.

www.heltviltoslo.no

Facebook: heltviltoslo

Instagram: @heltviltoslo

Visit Helt Vilt! Vulkan 5, 0178 Oslo, Norway

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

Photo: Fredrikke Wiheden

At the Nobel Prize Museum you will meet scientists, authors and freedom fighters who have contributed to the greatest benefit to humankind. At the museum, the stories of the Nobel Prize laureates come to life through guided tours, videos and unique artefacts. Welcome! Stortorget, Old Town, Stockholm nobelprizemuseum.se

Restaurant of The Month, Finland

Enjoy authentic Asian cuisine in Western Finland

Ravintola Juku began as a vision. Kun Rahko had recently graduated from university in Finland and moved with her Finnish husband Juhani to Seinäjoki in western Finland’s Ostrobothnia region. A native of China, Kun had a dream of bringing authentic Japanese food to the area, where, at that time, no other Japanese food could be found. In 2014, her dream came true with the opening of Ravintola Juku.

By Molly McPharlin

Ravintola Juku is where many of Seinäjoki’s residents tried sushi for the first time. For the first two years, the restaurant’s only employee was Kun herself, working in a 17-meter square business space in a local shopping centre. In 2016, Juku moved to larger premises and expanded its menu, offering stir-fried wok dishes as well as sushi.

“Despite the more traditional tastes of South Ostrobothnians, customers responded very positively to it,” says Ju-

hani Rahko, who runs Ravintola Juku with his wife Kun. “By 2018, we opened a second restaurant using the same concept in Vaasa, Finland.”

Juku has expanded its eating establishments to include food courts inside supermarkets. “The concept is that the chefs are visible to customers, allowing everyone to assess quality and hygiene with their own eyes,” says Rahko. In 2020, several Juku food points were opened in Western Finland and they now have 14 locations and are still expanding. Juku also began a takeaway service in 2015 and now produces about twenty different products under their own label to retail in both local stores and supermarkets.

Experienced food entrepreneurs

The team behind Ravintola Juku has extensive experience in the restaurant industry. Kun Rahko, herself, comes from a family of restaurant entrepreneurs in China. Some of Juku’s chefs have special expertise in Japanese cuisine, others in

Ravintola Juku food court. Photo: Mika Alavesa

A fresh selection of sushi at Juku.

Photo: Hanna Solomon

different types of Asian cooking. Ravintola Juku now prides itself on its reputation as being an authority of Asian food in the region, not only concentrating on Japanese cooking.

The menu at Ravintola Juku features a range of Asian dishes. Some of the stirfried options are fried noodles, pork with cumin, pineapple chicken and black pepper beef. And all locations have a fresh sushi buffet. “We get inspiration from the food cultures of other countries and some of our restaurants offer a Hawaiian poke bowl and Korean bibimbap,” says Rahko.

Over the years, the menu at Juku has evolved, Rahko explains; “While we maintain our core offerings, we regularly update the menu to keep the dining experience fresh and exciting.” In October 2024, Juku will start offering freshly made noodles in the Vaasa restaurant. Diners will be able to prepare their own noodle dish simply by pushing a button on a noodle machine.

Ravintola Juku can also host private events and special occasions. And in the supermarket food courts, large orders of sushi and other food can be made in advance to cater for large groups or private parties.

Inclusive, go-to restaurant

Rahko feels that many people have adopted a Ravintola Juku as their neighbourhood go-to restaurant. “Our interior designers have created cosy, impressive

spaces for eating. And our selection is wide, so if someone doesn’t want to eat sushi, they can have hot dishes,” he says. “We attract a diverse clientele, including locals, tourists, and food enthusiasts.”

Juku is also committed to providing an inclusive dining experience. The restaurant offers family-friendly services such as highchairs and free meals for children up to age three when accompanied by paying adults. From ages 3-12, children’s meals are only a euro each. For those with dairy allergies, all of Juku’s food is milk and lactose-free.

In the future, Ravintola Juku will continue to expand the menu with innovative

dishes and explore new venues to open restaurants and food courts. “We are also currently building a central kitchen where certain food products can be pre-prepared. This will expand the offerings in our food points and will give us the possibility of producing ready meals for sale in stores,” says Rahko.

Japanese food has gained great popularity in Finland due to its flavours and health benefits. There is also a growing interest in international and more exotic cuisines around the country as the population becomes more diverse. “Ravintola Juku has really added to the food choices in Ostrobothnia,” says Rahko. “For us, it all began in a 17 square meter shop front.”

www.ravintolajuku.fi

Facebook: Juku

Instagram: @ravintolajuku

Juku offers both sushi and stir fried dishes. Photo: Ravintola Juku

Enjoying sushi at Ravintola Juku.

Photo: Hanna Solomon

A fresh stir fried meal at Juku. Photo: Mika Alavesa

Conference of The Month, Norway

Modern conference centre in the heart of Oslo

Røde Kors Konferansesenter offers a range of well-equipped and attractive meeting rooms for groups of different sizes. Booking an event here supports the humanitarian work of an organisation committed to helping people in crisis both in Norway and internationally.

By Maria Sødal Vole  | Photos: Røde Kors Konferansesenter

With its central location in the heart of Oslo, Røde Kors Konferansesenter (the Red Cross Conference Centre) is easily accessible from most areas in Norway’s capital. The modern conference centre is located just a stone’s throw from bus and tram stops and less than 10 minutes from the Oslo Central Station, making it easy to get to for locals, commuters, and those travelling from further afield.

The centre offers several rooms of varying sizes and a high degree of flexibility, making it possible to tailor events to different requirements. Meetings and conferences can be arranged according to the needs and preferences of the customers; participants can gather in one room or split up into smaller meeting

rooms, and there are several possibilities for room layout.

“We have broad experience in facilitating events and can adapt to the circumstances of each customer,” says conference

manager Eystein Sæther. “We’re also aware that budgets can vary greatly, and many customers appreciate our guidance on running a successful event. In addition, we can advise on areas where it might be possible to make savings as we don’t want to upsell customers unnecessarily.”

Well-developed rooms and facilities

The centre’s seven modern meeting rooms are well-equipped, flexible and attractively designed. With comfortable seating and opportunities to change the room layout according to customer preferences, all types of meetings can be accommodated. Accessibility is key, and a recent refurbishment improved access for those with disabilities. The centre now has a platform lift and accessible toilets, and audio induction loops enable hearing aids to automatically connect to the system in almost all rooms.

The meeting rooms are all equipped with flatscreens, Wi-Fi connection and easy

accessibility to Zoom/Teams, as well as high-tech audio and video equipment. The centre’s largest hall, named after Red Cross co-founder Henry Dunant, can seat up to 200 guests and features a stateof-the-art LED screen offering fantastic images and sound. “For an event to run smoothly, it’s crucial that the technology works seamlessly,” Sæther says.

Social spaces and refreshments

Alongside meeting rooms, there are several areas for socialising, relaxing or working. The spacious foyer provides great opportunities to mingle or catch up on emails in between meetings, and the charming courtyard has plenty of seating and is a perfect spot for enjoying some fresh air. The centre’s large dining hall and canteen serve a variety of fresh and delicious food, however groups of 40 people or more are requested to order meals in advance from an extensive menu.

The centre also offers a range of catering options. “In my experience, food and refreshments contribute to an enjoyable and productive conference,” says Sæther. A variety of snacks, drinks and meals can be provided for meetings and conferences of all sizes. Food can be pre-ordered from a comprehensive menu of nourishing, tasty options such as salads, baguettes, wraps, smoothies and baked goods. According to Sæther, a platter of fresh fruit is usually a welcome addition to a meeting room – though cake

can also be a lovely treat after a successful day of meetings. Unlimited tea and coffee is included in the rental price, and several coffee machines are placed around the building.

Committed to sustainability

The Norwegian Red Cross supports the United Nations' sustainable development goals and is Eco-Lighthouse certified. Every effort is made to ensure environmentally friendly practices are implemented across the organisation. The conference centre requests that anyone renting meeting rooms complies with guidelines aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the event, such

as avoiding single-use products and sorting waste according to directions.

“As a Red Cross initiative, our daily operations reflect the values of the organisation. Sustainability is one of our key principles,” Sæther explains. “When a customer is planning an event here, we offer guidance on food allocation to avoid unnecessary waste. Sometimes there will be a surplus of food, in which case we try to have it redistributed by one of Oslo’s wonderful charities and non-profit organisations that work with disadvantaged people.”

www.rodekors.no/om/kurs-ogkonferansesenter

Conference of The Month, Norway

Oslo’s premier hub for conferences, events and culture

In the heart of Oslo’s city centre, a space is so welcoming and versatile that it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what it is. Sentralen might be best described as a multifunctioning event hub, but with its range of amenities, culinary experiences, and vast range of venues, even that might not do it justice.

By Celina Tran

While locals might say that nothing compares to their hometown, there’s truly nowhere quite like Norway’s capital, Oslo. With its views of the mountains and the fjord, it’s the perfect sneak peek at what the rest of the country holds, all while having its very own big-city charm.

In Oslo, life moves both fast and slow, with endless opportunities for fun and creativity at every corner. While this is mostly good, it can also be distracting, and finding a good space to foster your creative

energy and productivity might be overwhelming. However, a vibrant cultural and event centre has taken all the things we love about Oslo and collated them into one big, beautiful space. Since its establishment in 2016, Sentralen has become a cornerstone for a wide range of activities.

“Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, an artistic performance, or a community gathering, we offer an inspiring space that blends historical charm with modern amenities,” says Rikke Haakenstuen, head of marketing and communication at Sentralen. Best described as a multifunctional event hub, it offers a variety of spaces for rent, including event halls, stages, meeting rooms, a podcast studio, a streaming studio, a rooftop terrace, and rehearsal rooms.

Photo: Katrine Lunke

Photo: Katrine Lunke

A modern space anchored in history Sentralen occupies the former headquarters of Christiania Sparebank, a building with roots dating back to the mid-19th century. The main building at Øvre Slottsgate 3 was completed in 1854, with a subsequent expansion in 1901 that included the addition of the Tollbugata 30 building.

For as long as it has been around, the building has in one way or another functioned as a bank, DNB being the last one. In 2006, the Savings Bank Foundation DNB bought the building and began brainstorming of its potential future use. When the DNB bank relocated from the building in 2014, renovations were finally able to start. “It’s a beautiful, old building with so much potential, and eventually the concept of Sentralen was born. We finally opened our doors to the public in 2016,” says Haakenstuen.

The building underwent major renovation led by the two architectural firms, KIMA and Atelier Oslo, who wanted to preserve its original structure and charm. In some of the conference and meeting rooms, you can still find the original paint and interior details. The names of the different spaces are also references to the building’s history as a bank.

These days, Sentralen serves as an event hub, a meeting place, and just a great place to grab a snack and hang out with friends. “Our spaces cater to a diverse clientele, including the general public attending concerts, theatre performances and fes-

tivals, cultural producers renting venues for events, and businesses and organisations holding conferences and seminars,” she explains. “Our meeting rooms can be rented by the hour or for an entire day, with many clients choosing to book multiple rooms for larger events, such as conferences requiring breakout rooms.”

A space for everyone Sentralen is a safe and happy place for anyone who walks through the door. Whether you come to start your day with a meeting, grab lunch, or attend a cultural arrangement, it offers a vibrant atmosphere for all. “We’re committed to inclusivity and community engagement, which is why we offer generous rental arrangements for certain events that promote diversity and inclusion, as well as events aimed at children and youngsters up to 19 years,” says Haakenstuen.

As Sentralen is owned by the Savings Bank Foundation DNB, it also aligns its values with the foundation, further offering reduced rates to those promoting everything from arts and culture to society and cultural heritage. “Here at Sentralen, anyone can rent a hall and set up an event or show. From planning to producing and setting up, you have free reigns to make your very own event, whether it’s a private wedding, a work conference, or a theatre show. Once you know what you want, we provide the space, technology and technicians for your event,” says Haakenstuen.

This, along with the atmosphere and historical surroundings makes Sentralen a unique venue, a fun and accessible gem that cannot be found anywhere else in Oslo.

www.sentralen.no Facebook: Sentralen Instagram: @sentralenoslo

Visit Sentralen Øvre Slottsgate 3 0157 Oslo, Norway

Photo: Katrine Lunke

Photo: Marius Dale

Photo: Mikael Ortenheim

Hotel of The Month, Finland

Modern comfort and Nordic charm in Espoo

Situated in the heart of Espoo, just a stone’s throw from Helsinki, the newly-opened Hotel Matts is a gateway to everything Finland’s capital region has to offer. With the Matinkylä metro station right at its doorstep, the hotel is a prime location for both business and leisure travellers.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Kassiopeia Hotels & Restaurants

Espoo’s natural beauty combined with its bustling urban amenities provides visitors with an abundance of activities and services to enjoy year-round. From stunning coastal scenery to convenient transport connections, Hotel Matts is more than just a place to stay – it’s a hub for exploring the best of southern Finland.

Whether interested in shopping, dining, or simply taking in the scenery, Espoo has something for everyone. The nearby Iso Omena shopping centre is one of

the region’s largest, boasting a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. And nature enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to stunning trails and coastal paths that make Espoo a haven for outdoor activities.

A perfect blend of accessibility and tranquillity

One of the hotel’s standout features is its proximity to Matinkylä metro station, just a two-minute walk away. This makes it easy for guests to travel to and from Helsinki city centre without the need for a car. “The hotel’s location and easy accessibility make it a prime location both for leisure and business,” says Maria Koskinen, chief operating officer at Kassiopeia Hotels & Restaurants. The Finnish hospitality chain is known for its

high-quality hotels, restaurants, and meeting services across the country, including the popular tourist destination Levi in Finnish Lapland.

Hotel Matts offers a wide range of accommodations designed to meet the needs of every guest, from solo travellers to large families, with options ranging from standard hotel rooms to fully equipped apartments. The hotel also provides adjoining rooms, ideal for families or groups who want to stay connected while enjoying their own space. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the suites include private saunas, adding a quintessentially Finnish touch to the stay.

Experience Nordic cuisine at its finest

The hotel’s restaurant Freja is a culinary destination in its own right, offering a

modern take on Nordic cuisine. With a menu that emphasises high-quality, seasonal ingredients, the restaurant serves up a variety of dishes that reflect the best of the region’s culinary traditions. Whether sitting down for breakfast, lunch, à la carte dinner, or a weekend brunch, you will find that every meal is crafted with care and a passion for great food.

Freja’s bar is equally inviting, offering a selection of wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks in a stylish, atmospheric setting. In the summer months, the restaurant extends its offerings to an outdoor terrace, allowing guests to dine al fresco and enjoy the long Nordic evenings.

For those planning a special event, the rooftop on the hotel’s seventh floor provides a stunning backdrop. With an in-

door area that seats 42 and a terrace that can accommodate up to 140 people, this versatile space is perfect for meetings, parties, or private gatherings. Regardless of the occasion, the experienced team will help to create an unforgettable experience.

Commitment to sustainability

Offering modern comfort and convenience, Hotel Matts is also committed to sustainability. Recently awarded the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, the hotel is recognised for its efforts to minimise environmental impact. In fact, all Kassiopeia hotels have been awarded the prestigious ecolabel, and the company is proud to be able to prove how eco-friendly practices such as minimising waste, serving sustainable food and staff training are part of everyday activities. “Sustainability is one of our core values, and it’s something that we integrate into our daily operations,” Koskinen adds.

With its ideal location, stylish accommodations and top-notch services, this hotel offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. “Hotel Matts is an excellent base for exploring Espoo, Helsinki, and the surrounding region,” Koskinen adds. “From the ease of metro access to the allure of Nordic cuisine, every aspect of the hotel is designed to provide a memorable stay for our guests.”

www.hotelmatts.fi

Facebook: hotelmatts

Instagram: @hotelmatts

Hotel of The Month, Norway

Experience true luxury in natural surroundings with TunheimsFjørå Lodge

Want to wake up to the serene calm of a Norwegian fjord, the perfectly blue water of the north-west before you? At TunheimsFjørå Lodge, you can enjoy the best of Norwegian nature without sacrificing luxury or comfort.

By Celina Tran

Nestled along Vanylvsfjord, TunheimsFjørå Lodge serves as a peaceful and luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by mountainous peaks on all sides, as well as the dancing green-and-blue aurora borealis above, it’s the perfect place to access the best of Norwegian nature.

“TunheimsFjørå Lodge is a luxury experience for those seeking a private and all-inclusive nature retreat in one of Norway’s most stunning areas,” says Anita Eikrem, who owns and runs TunheimsFjørå Lodge with her husband, Webjørn Eikrem.

Open year-round, the Fjøra experience includes everything from a private chef to fun activities, perfect for families with young children to friends or couples looking for a break from everyday life.

Looking for a bit of peace and quiet? No worries. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the winter season in comfort. With plenty of amenities like Jacuzzis, saunas, and your very own fishing boat, you can enjoy nature on your own terms. Should you want more, the opportunities are endless.

Jacuzzis and a private chef

Visitors to TunheimsFjørå lodge can also enjoy crowd-free skiing and hikes. After a long day of hitting the snowy slopes, you can return to the slush-free lodge and relax in the Jacuzzi under a starry sky. If you happen to be there at the right time, you might even find yourself under the Northern Lights.

“While you’re here, I would recommend checking out local activities too. At one of

my favourites, Arnegarden, you can learn how to make your very own sheepskin products,” Anita says. For those who are interested in history, a visit to the Selja monastery is a must.

"With a private chef, tour guides, and the exceptional care of our wonderful hostess, Edel Kristin Ruud Barstad, our guests can truly unwind,” adds Anita. “For our all-inclusive guests, everything is taken care of, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy every moment of your stay.”

www.tunheimsfjora.com Instagram: @tunheimsfjoralodge

Photo: Katie Farr

Photo: TunheimsFjørå

Photo: Kristoffer Ytterland

Photo: Gunhild Toftesund

Hotel of The Month, Iceland

Soaked in the beauty of southern Iceland

Tucked away in the captivating landscape of southern Iceland, Hrafntinna Villa offers travellers a beautifully secluded lodging, with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. With six bedrooms, the modern villa and its lush spacious interior provide a more than comfortable base for groups of friends and families to explore the many natural wonders of Iceland.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Chrislund Hires

Located just five minutes from the town of Selfoss, Hrafntinna Villa is set right by the Golden Circle, a route of natural wonders circling through the south of Iceland. But though there is plenty to explore, and most guests do spend most of the day doing so, the villa itself also offers an up-close experience of the area’s beauty. Surrounded by nothing but green fields and distant mountains, flaming sunsets and flickering Northern Lights provide spectacular views from the villa’s outdoor hot tub, garden sauna, and panoramic living room.

“All of my guests seem to leave early in the morning to go travelling and exploring and then come back in the evening to cook together and use the hot tub,” explains the villa’s owner and manager Hanne Smidesang.

Apart from the Golden Circle, which is one of the most popular routes for travellers exploring the island, the villa is also within easy driving distance of Reykjavik (64km) and Keflavik (110km) as well as natural attractions such as the iconic Gullfoss waterfall, the Secret Lagoon, and the historic landmark, the Caves of Hella.

From reality show to family getaway

Having moved from Norway to Iceland to pursue her passion for Icelandic horses in 2015, Smidesang came across Hrafntinna Villa in 2020. Having initially

In 2020, Hrafntinna Villa was refurbished with a lush interior and a host of distinctive design details.

The spectacular landscape surrounding Hrafntinna Villa is matched by its stunning interiors.

intended to live in the villa herself, in 2020, during COVID, Smidesang was contacted by the people behind the MTV reality show The Challenge who were looking for an isolated location to film the show. The show ended up being filmed on the site from August - November 2020, and the rental agreement provided Smidesang with the funds to do a speedy and complete renovation of the villa. “I remodelled everything in December, I love interior design so I collected pieces from everywhere, painted and made some things myself - I wanted it to be special, not just a lot of stuff from IKEA,” says Smidesang, who opened up the villa for visitors in January 2021. Today, she lives in a smaller building on the site and is thus available to help guests out with any concerns during their stay.

Most of her time, however, she spends raising, training and competing with her

ten Icelandic horses which graze around the villa, adding an extra touch to the authentic experience of the Icelandic culture and landscape.

More than expected

With most of Hrafntinna Villa’s bookings happening through Airbnb, the reviews on the site provide a testament to the almost magical charm of the site. “Absolutely beautiful, beyond our expectations,” “gorgeous”, and “fantastic” are just some of the descriptions phrased by guests. The features often appreciated by the groups of friends and families staying in the villa include the charm of having Smidesang’s horses next door, the helpful host as well as the proximity to the charming town of Selfoss and its many shopping and dining offers.

Moreover, the spectacular experience of watching the Northern Lights and

soaking in the hot tub after a long day out exploring are among the experiences that have made the stay a once-in-alifetime- experience for many guests. “I wanted the house to have a bit of a spa feeling so the hot tub is always filled with warm water, and often it is where people choose to sit in the evening to watch the Northern Lights,” explains Smidesang.

Hrafntinna Villa in short

Hrafntinna Villa is located in the south of Iceland, around 5 km from the city of Selfoss. The house is 300 square meters, on top of which guests have access to a garden and a big porch, an outdoor hot tub and ice bath as well as a sauna building in the garden.

The villa comprises a large living room with high ceilings and panorama windows, a spacious TV lounge, a large kitchen, six bedrooms, and three bathrooms (one of them located in the sauna building). For guests who wish for an extra laid-back holiday, cooking and cleaning services can be booked with the villa.

Next to the villa, there is a small stable with room for 10 horses, an indoor riding arena, and Smidesang’s home.

www.hrafntinna.is

Facebook: Hrafntinna Villa

Instagram: @hrafntinna_villa

Hanne Smidesang, owner of Hrafntinna Villa.

Hrafntinna Villa and its neighbouring stable are surrounded by nothing but green fields and distant mountains.

Explore nature and cultural heritage along the lakes of Eastern Finland

Dotted with lakes and peaceful forests, Rantasalmi is the ideal destination to unwind. It offers both local and foreign visitors a chance to experience enchanting rural landscapes, historic manor houses, and the possibility of exploring Finland’s renowned Lake Saimaa.

Rantasalmi provides visitors with a multitude of experiences in the Finnish countryside. In Linnansaari National Park, travellers can take advantage of an abundance of opportunities to hike, fish, and observe local animals such as Saimaa ringed seals and elk, all surrounded by captivating nature. Organised boat trips allow for meandering along the waterways of Lake Saimaa and there are many opportunities to barbeque and picnic.

There are also possibilities to gain a deeper understanding of Finland’s rich history and cultural life. Rantasalmi’s historic churches and the Rantasalmi museum offer a chance to learn about regional life.

This is also a haven for bird watchers, with numerous species inhabiting the area – visitors can spot ospreys and different kinds of water birds.

The Lake Saimaa region was awarded the European Region of Gastronomy title for 2024. For instance, Restaurant Solitary in Rantasalmi, named one of the fifty

By Molly McPharlin

Rantasalmen kunta /Karoliina Viinanen

best in Finland, is a place to taste fresh, local ingredients and celebrate the food culture of Eastern Finland.

Rantasalmi offers a range of services for visitors, from families to people with special needs. Local tourist information provides valuable assistance with identifying safe swimming areas for children and family-friendly hiking trails, helping visitors make the most of their trip.

This is a community that welcomes visitors with open arms. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality. They also have a firm commitment to preserving the environment and cultural heritage, ensuring that Rantasalmi remains a special place for generations to come.

www.rantasalmi.fi/en

Facebook: Rantasalmi

Instagram: @Rantasalmi

Photo:

Museum of The Month, Finland

The natural beauty and cultural delights of Riihisaari

Located in the heart of Finland’s lake district overlooking the majestic Olavinlinna Castle, Riihisaari is a peaceful, woodsy promontory offering meandering walks and views of surrounding Lake Saimaa. It is also a museum island, home to the awardwinning Savonlinna Museum and Metsähallitus Saimaa Nature Centre. All of this is just a ten-minute walk from the centre of Savonlinna, a tourist destination for the region.

By Molly McPharlin

Riihisaari offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on themes of local culture, history, art, and nature. It also offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the largest collections of over one-hundred-yearold steamships in Finland, including a schooner, a tugboat, and the last true wood-hulled tar steamer, named Mikko.

Piia Karjalainen, customer service officer at Riihisaari, feels that the museum and surrounding nature offer something for everyone. “Our visitors range from babies to older people. Many enjoy our exhibitions and come back again and again,” she says. The main exhibition, In the Heart of Lake Saimaa, focuses on the area’s cultural history. There is also a great emphasis on art, including historic photographs, and even a wonderful collection of dolls.

Families especially enjoy their time at Riihisaari. The museum provides children with the chance to enjoy hands-on activities and feel welcome in the museum’s space. “Riihisaari is also visited annually by hundreds of school children,” says Karjalainen. “We offer them guided activities targeted at their age group. And every person under 18 visits for free.”

Riihisaari is also popular with travellers coming to Finland who hope to visit Olavinlinna and its surrounding sites. “For guests from abroad, we have a guided programme in English in the summertime, popular with both adult and younger guests,” Karjalainen says. “During the rest of the year, it can be requested.”

Planning is underway to create a public, year-round communal sauna next to the museum. This should make a visit to

Riihisaari even more exciting and attractive, giving visitors the chance to also experience Finnish sauna culture. “Many people coming to Riihisaari want to know about local Finnish life and this will add another dimension to what we can show them,” Karjalainen thinks.

Savonlinna and Lake Saimaa itself offer an abundance of things to see and do. In 2024, the region was awarded the European Region of Gastronomy title, celebrating the flavours and cultural traditions of Eastern Finland. And in November, the Riihisaari Blues Festival will be organised by the museum, including a cigar box guitar exhibition this autumn.

www.riihisaari.fi/en

Facebook: Riihisaari

Instagram: @riihisaari

Youtube: Riihisaari – Savonlinnan museo

Photo: Riihisaari/Paulo Aranda

Photo: Riihisaari/Jussi Kirmanen

Photo: Riihisaari/Timo Seppäläinen

How the new Danish climate crisis blockbuster TV series came to be

On 20 October, one of the biggest-ever Danish TV productions, the much-anticipated Familier som Vores, premieres in Denmark. We dive behind the scenes of the production and find out how it developed from the spark of an idea into filming reality and eventually opening in Venice.

By Anders Lorenzen

In Familier som Vores (Families Like Ours), the premise of the plot centres around a not-too-distant future where Denmark is facing an impending climate disaster as a result of rising sea levels, which eventually forces the government to decide that Denmark is no longer liveable and must be evacuated. This causes ethical dilemmas such as wealth and influence in deciding where people can migrate to, even in a wealthy country like Denmark.

As the population prepares to leave their homes, high school student Laura must choose between her divorced parents and the boy she has fallen in love with. Familier som Vores is very much a love story, both to the country and to each other, and the seven-episode blockbuster series explores what it means to say goodbye.

Produced by Danish company Zentropa, the TV series is extraordinary for several reasons. First, the scale is at a level rarely seen for a Danish production and the most expensive undertaken by Zentropa so far. Filming started in August 2022 and spanned over 12 months. In addition to a star-studded Danish cast, including Amaryllis August as Laura and Albert Rudbeck Lindhardt as Elias, 40 international actors and 2,500 extras participated.

The series was filmed in Denmark, Sweden, Czech Republic. France and Romania – with over 100 hours of footage which has been edited down to seven episodes with a total duration of around six hours.

From concept to reality

This is director Thomas Vinterberg’s first TV series. Vinterberg had his breakthrough in 1998 with the film Festen (The Celebration), which made him one of the most promising up-and-coming Danish directors. Recently, he received global accolades and recognition for his 2020 film Druk (Another Round), which won an Academy Award in 2021 for Best International Feature Film, as well as a nomination for Best Achievement in the category Directing.

Vinterberg first came up with the concept for Familier som Vores in 2017. During an

Familier som Vores premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival in August.

Photo: IPA Agency © STUDIOCANAL/ Zentropa/TV 2

assignment abroad, the filmmaker was bored and stuck in a hotel room in Paris. Missing his daughters, his thoughts went to his children’s perception of the world and he found inspiration in their future responsibility for the planet.

His starting point for the TV series; was what would happen to his family if Denmark needed to be evacuated. He imagined possibly getting a job in Paris or London, making films, but that his exwife might settle somewhere else. What would that mean for his access to his children? And another political and topical dilemma that we see in times of war, conflict and natural disaster; if there was limited space, who would get access to the lifeboat and how would such a decision be made?

These ethical dilemmas became the focus of the series as it developed from idea to concept. Together with his co-writer, Bo Hr. Hansen, Vinterberg started working on what would eventually end up as the final script. In total, the series took four years from idea to realisation.

How to research a climate disaster film?

Early on in the process Vinterberg, together with his co-writer and producers,

made the decision not to focus on the actual flooding and the impending disaster. Instead, he wanted to illustrate how the pragmatic Danes would prepare for such a catastrophe and the toll it would take on them. "What you don't see is more scary than what you see," he says in an interview with Reuters.

To research the film, Vinterberg’s team consulted climate experts and reached out to the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs for advice on how to convincingly portray a mass evacuation. They were advised that a likely, realistic scenario would be corridors through Europe, with streams of refugees, transport, and so on.

"What we tried to do is imagine, as realistically as possible, what would happen in our country – that's how it became this catastrophe in slow motion," the award-winning director explains to Reuters. He holds a strong conviction and confidence in Denmark’s ability to handle this scenario with sensible planning, and that the Danes would start to move out of the country well before the water swept in.

Unrelated to the film, in 2023 the Danish government urged its population to

take part in a pilot project where individuals would prepare for a disaster by stocking up on food and other supplies. This was motivated by the overarching Scandinavian concern about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and what would happen if they advanced further into Eastern Europe and Scandinavia (both Norway and Finland share country borders with Russia).

Familier som Vores is a love story, both to the country and to each other. Photo: Per Arnesen, Zentropa TV 2

Amaryllis August at the premiere in Venice. Photo: IPA Agency © STUDIOCANAL/ Zentropa/TV 2

The challenge of a large-scale production

The cast and crew have certainly experienced an intense production with long days and periods of filming, which was necessary in order to meet the tight production deadlines, as well as battling challenging weather conditions and juggling different local regulations and languages spoken on set.

While Zentropa was the leading company, this was a collaborative effort involving 11 production as well as distribution companies from eight countries. Zentropa’s sister company, Zentropa Sweden, the Danish National Broadcaster TV 2 Denmark, France’s Studiocanal and Canal+, Germany’s ARD Degeto, Norway’s NRK and Sweden’s TV4 and Film i Väst, Czech Republic’s Sirena Film, Belgium's Ginger Pictures as well as Saga Film in Iceland.

Reception

and the aftermath

The TV series premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival in August, which is somewhat ironic as the city frequently

battles flooding and rising sea levels. It was a fact that did not escape Vinterberg, who considers Venice the obvious choice for the film to open.

In an interview with TV 2 Denmark, where the series will premiere later this month, Vinterberg admits that he is blown away by the reception it received in Venice, with standing ovations and members of the audience seen crying. Additionally, he adds that investors, politicians and journalists from all over the world believe that what is communicated in the series is important.

Filmmakers, including Vinterberg, have seen growing demands from campaigners to write more climate-focused storylines into films, as not many productions reflect the reality of the climate crisis at the extent it is developing right now.

So far, Vinterberg has satisfied those demands. The months and years ahead will show whether Familier som Vores will act as a catalyst for embedding the climate crisis into storylines and thereby

encouraging others to follow suit, which would boost the relatively small cli-fi film genre.

Familier som Vores premieres in Denmark on TV 2 Play and TV 2 on Sunday 20 October.

Filming started in August 2022 and spanned over 12 months. Photo: Julia Vrabelová, Zentropa TV 2

Albert Rudbeck Lindhardt at the premiere in Venice. Photo: IPA Agency © STUDIOCANAL/ Zentropa/TV 2

Best new Scandi music in October

Swedish duo Smith & Thell have released a five-song collection that’s well worth getting acquainted with. A Chosen Family is their new EP, featuring five well-crafted tunes, each with a little something unique to offer. They’ve given us Smith & Thell country pop on Waste Of Time, Smith & Thell arena pop on Little Alter Boy, Smith & Thell pensive pop on At Least I Tried, and Smith & Thell at their most weird and wonderful on UFO. Plus, there’s the new single I Let The Good Ones Go – a gorgeous ballad with lyrics that strap you in to hear their rollercoaster story of gut punches and heart-string tugs.

She’s become one of Finland’s biggest artists in the past 12 months since her debut, and now Mirella is back with her latest release, Löytää Mut. With her first four singles, she’s clocked up an incredible 60 streams on Spotify alone, and with this new one – single number five – she looks set to add more big numbers to

Monthly Illustration

that tally. Featuring a sugar-sweet pop melody balanced out by some beautifully composed Nordic melancholia, and then topped off with strings aplenty – it’s a glittering addition to the young artist’s already sparkling repertoire.

A top-tier collaboration from the Nordic music world this month – when Sweden’s Molly Hammar paired with Norway’s Emma Steinbakken. Two performers who have more than proved their pop prowess in the past, both in terms of songwriting and the incredible vocals with which they deliver their hits. En Sista Chans ends up being the stunner that you’ll have expected it to be if you’re a fan of either – a dreamy mid-tempo that is going to serve us well as we cosy up on these autumnal evenings. Everything Is Right is the brand-new single from Swedish duo Tomode, following the release of Visions Of You in the summer. On it, they’ve gifted us with a delectable slice of disco that’s authen-

The cycling way of life

I feel terrible that my children don’t get to cycle everywhere, because growing up in Scandinavia, that's what me and my friends did. Cycle, cycle, cycle. To school, to friends’ houses, to parties. The slightly sweaty back, the thighs of steel. What a dream. Sometimes a wheel got stuck in the tram track and we fell and scraped our hands and had to go to hospital and have a nurse pick out tiny, tiny bits of dirt from open wounds. But most of the time, we just got back on the bike and continued.

Cycling with friends is such a fun way to get to school or a concert or football training. There is freedom in this way of transport, a smug feeling that you are doing something good for the world and yourself. It’s a way of life really, cycling. During our Swedish summer holiday this year, we cycled a lot. Cars in Sweden are really aware of cyclists, always give them

the right of way, and the roads are built with cyclists in mind.

My experience in the UK is different; there are a lot of angry drivers who think that anyone on a bike is a no-good hippie. But that’s only because cyclists in the UK are in opposition to society. It’s a group of

By Karl Batterbee

tic to the genre enough to take you right back to its ’70s heyday. I was on board with this before the chorus had even arrived on that very first, delightful listen – that production is just undeniable. It comes ahead of their debut album, Existential Disco, and I’m expecting more dreamy things already, given that title!

www.scandipop.co.uk

By Gabi Froden

people who have to fight for their rights on the streets and argue for more space, storage and status. Cyclists are seen as an inconvenience. This mindset is completely at odds with life in Scandinavia, which consistently appears on the list of healthiest and most environmentally friendly places in the world.

I miss the cycling way of life. And I miss the smugness that comes with it.

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 Film & TV

This month's column is a Nordic preview of the BFI London Film Festival. The strength and diversity of Nordic film and TV are on display when the BFI London Film Festival kicks off in October.

By Anders Lorenzen

To a Land Unknown, The Apprentice and Families Like Ours, which have all been featured in the column, are just some of the Nordic creativity on display at this year's festival, with To a Land Unknown also being featured in the awards category In Competition. But beyond these titles, several others can be enjoyed at this year's festival.

In Sex, which picked up nine nominations and eight awards at the Berlin International Film Festival, Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud tackles the complicated dilemma of two male colleagues, both in heterosexual relationships, developing affection for each other and starting an intimate relationship.

Icelandic director Rúnar Rúnarsson’s When the Light Breaks is a stylised film shot on 16mm film, something rare in today’s modern filmmaking. It’s a love

story which also touches on loss and acceptance. It picked up nominations at both Cannes and Munich film festivals.

Mikko Mäkelä is based in London and describes himself as a Finnish-British filmmaker, named by IndieWire as one of 25 LGBTQ Filmmakers on the Rise in 2019. His second feature film Sebastian tells the dark story of an aspiring writer living in London who begins a double life as a sex worker to research his debut novel.

In the alternative documentary Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958-1989, the Swedish director Göran Hugo Olsson uses over 30 years of public service broadcasting archive and manages to create a portrait of how the conflict was portrayed on Swedish TV during that period.

For the younger audience, Sweden’s Stina Wirsén and Linda Hambäck bring us

the 5-minute animation Who’s Wrong, a show-and-tell day-in-class story. And from Denmark, a brave knight is pushed to the edge in a 2-minute non-dialogue animation short from directors Luciano A. Muñoz Sessarego, Magnus I. Møller and Peter Smith.

The BFI London Film Festival runs 9-20 October across several London venues.

Anders Lorenzen is a Danish blogger and film and TV enthusiast living in London.

Sex. Photo: BFI London Film Festival

When The Light Breaks. Photo: BFI London Film Festival

Scandinavian Culture Calendar

From beer to burlesque and from film and song to theatre and musical: there’s a whole host of entertainment and events happening across the Nordic nations throughout October. Here’s a curated selection of cultural highlights worth checking out this month.

By Karl Batterbee

The cast of Dreamgirls: The Musical.

Photo: Mats Bäcker

Dreamgirls:

The Musical (until 17 November)

A brand-new Swedish production of Dreamgirls: The Musical opened at Stockholm’s China Teatern in September and runs until the middle of November. With a Swedish-language script and direction by Edward af Sillén, it’s a new take on the classic musical which tells the tale of three young singers in a girl group trying to make it in a tough music industry. The musical is starring three Swedish talents in its lead roles: Janice Kavander, Laila Adéle and Mary N’Diaye. China Teatern, Stockholm www.chinateatern.se

IV International Queerlesque Festival (4-5 October)

Burlesque, but make it queer! Following the huge success of the first three editions, We Are Queerlesque are inviting you to a colourful festival full of burlesque, circus and drag. They’ve promised some of the most mesmerising and breathtaking performances by artists from all around the world, on the grand stage of the Savoy Theatre in Helsinki. The LGBT+ and PoC communities are putting on the party here, but everyone is invited to come along and enjoy the spectacle. Savoy Theatre, Helsinki www.wearequeerlesque.com

VIIVI (5 October)

She’s one of the hottest properties in Finnish pop right now, and in October VIIVI plays a much-anticipated live show in the Finnish capital, Helsinki. A staple of the radio airwaves and a mainstay on the Spotify charts, VIIVI has charmed Finnish audiences with her accessible blend of Nordic melodies and enchanting productions. If you’ve yet to enjoy her music, this is a chance to see what all the Finnish fuss is about!

Tavastia, Helsinki www.viivilrockyou.fi

Finnish artist VIIVI plays a Helsinki show in October. Photo: Kuva Tero-ahonen

Everyone is invited along to experience Queerlesque. Photo: Muumi

Halloween at Tivoli (10 October - 3 November)

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen has by now become renowned for its commitment to marking the seasons of the year, and Halloween is no exception. During autumn, the gardens are decorated to convey a spooky but cosy atmosphere, featuring more than 20,000 jack-o’-lanterns in its display. Special Halloween exhibitions and events fill the gardens, and visitors are offered a programme that includes the traditional pumpkin competition, the Monsters Night Out parade and haunted houses aplenty.

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen www.tivoli.dk

Oktoberfest Oslo (10-12, 17-19 and 24-26 October)

Scandinavia's biggest Oktoberfest takes place in Oslo at Youngstorget square –with a real Bayern beer tent, long tables and a beer orchestra that plays all your favourite German drinking songs. There are over 2,000 seats in the tent at Youngstorget. One-third of the tables are first come, first served. But if you prefer to be absolutely sure of a seat, it is possible to reserve a table for four or up to ten people. Strøm Larsen and Los Tacos will provide the food in the tent so that no one goes hungry.

Youngstorget, Oslo www.oktoberfestoslo.no

The biggest Oktoberfest event in Scandinavia happens in the Norwegian capital. Photo: Oktoberfest Oslo

Copenhagen’s Tivoli gets spooky for Halloween. Photo: Tivoli

Annual Copenhagen Film Festival (12-14

October)

The Annual Copenhagen Film Festival returns to the Danish capital for its seventh edition in October. This year’s lineup will feature 27 independent films that span six different themes, touching upon gender identity, ethics, human dilemmas and personal relationships, through stories we can all identify with. All films are either in English or come with English subtitles. Husets Biograf, Copenhagen www.annualcphfest.com

Company

(until 17 November)

One of the world's most talked about stage shows has finally arrived in Sweden. Stephen Sondheim's Company follows Bobbie's search for love and a place of belonging, surrounded by an eclectic group of friends in the big city. The production at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern in Stockholm stars some of Sweden's most beloved theatre performers, such as Frida Modén Treichl, Helen Sjöholm and Gunilla Backman. Company opened to rave reviews in September.

Kulturhuset Stadsteatern, Stockholm www.kulturhusetstadsteatern.se

The cast of the Swedish production of Company.

Photo: Felix Swensson

The Annual Copenhagen Film Festival takes place at Husets Biograf. Photo: Elsa Solorio Borbón

Scan Magazine Issue 171 October 2024

Published 10.2024

ISSN 1757-9589

Published by

Scan Client Publishing

Print

Stibo Complete

Executive Editor

Thomas Winther

Creative Director

Mads E. Petersen

Editor

Malin Norman

Copy-editor

Vera Winther

Graphic Designers

Mercedes Moulia

Mauro Salerno

Cover Photo

Anders Bobert

Contributors

Anders Lorenzen

Celina Tran

Emma Rodin

Gabi Froden

Hanna Margrethe Enger

Heidi Kokborg

Karl Batterbea

Malin Norman

Maria Sødal Vole

Molly McPharlin

Ndéla Faye

Nina Bressler

Sofia Nordgren

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Scene from the Swedish production of Company.