Scan Magazine | Issue 45 | October 2012 by Scan Client Publishing

OCTOBER 2012 ISSUE 45 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

TRINE DYRHOLM: READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD ARCHITECTURE IN SWEDEN & DENMARK LARGE GUIDE: MADE IN NORWAY DRAKENBERG SJÖLIN: BEJEWELLED BY NATURE

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Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 8

Trine Dyrholm With more than 20 years of experience and five Bodil Awards under her belt, Danish actress Trine Dyrholm finally feels ready to take on the world. Scan Magazine had a chat with the 40-year-old, who stars in Oscarwinning director Susanne Bier’s new film Love Is All You Need.

SPECIAL THEMES 19

20 Bejewelled by Nature Adorn your skin with delicate leaves, flowers, icicles, raindrops, ripples on the sea and other beautiful forms and features found in Swedish nature. Drakenberg Sjölin is the duo behind these unique jewellery designs.

FOOD FEATURE 82

Big Scandinavian Moments at the London Games In the aftermath of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Scandinavian athletes and exporters reflect on an unforgettable summer spent reaching for the global spotlight.

Stockholm Restaurant & Deli A new Swedish restaurant has recently opened its doors in East Sheen, London; Stockholm Restaurant & Deli is a cosy little establishment, helmed by head chef Göran Landh and restaurant manager Majvor Darnton, that serves traditional Swedish food with a big dollop of Nordic charm.

FEATURES 16

Architecture in Denmark Architecture is often called upon as a tool to solve societal problems ranging from ghettoization to spatial issues, and at a time where we’re witnessing the impact of human actions on the earth, its climate and ecosystem, sustainability is strongly on the agenda within Danish architecture.

DESIGN FEATURE 14

Architecture in Sweden Swedish architecture is characterised by the country’s place on earth and by its traditionally strong connection to the particular Nordic light. Thus it must always relate to this and adapt, interpret and resolve.

SPECIAL INSERT

Nordic Noir Film Club

Made in Norway

The Nordic Noir Film Club presents two exclusive event nights, which include private screenings of False Trail and the first episode of season two of Borgen, as well as Q&A sessions with their stars Rolf Lassgård and Birgitte Hjort Sørensen.

Norwegian companies have a reputation as worldclass leaders in various sectors, and it is therefore important to improve their visibility in the international market. Despite the existing hindrances in the global market, Norwegian export companies have an amazing way of readjusting and adapting to opportunities in new emerging markets.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 12 80

Scan Business

science and arts institution whose areas of study and research include pedagogy, tourism, law, art, design, social sciences, and northern and Arctic affairs.

60 FEATURES

70 86

Kouvola Located in southeast Finland, Kouvola has a strong industrial heritage. Boasting Finland’s largest train traffic hub, the city is just over one hour from Helsinki and two hours from St. Petersburg. With international ports and an airport nearby, Kouvola provides a perfect nest for businesses both big and small.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 85

Business Columns & News Key note, columns and news stories on Scandinavian businesses and business events.

Conferences of the Month The best conference venues, events and congresses of the month.

University of Lapland Established in 1979, the University of Lapland set in the city of Rovaniemi is an international, multidisciplinary

Scandinavian Business Calendar Highlights of Scandinavian business events.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 3

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, It’s that time of the year again – the woolly socks come out of the drawers (as I refuse to turn on the heating in October…), and, what’s slightly more exciting, the Scandinavia Show is back. On the 6-7 October, Brompton Hall at Earl’s Court will once again be filled with Nordic travel, food, design and lifestyle exhibitors, so there is plenty to taste, test and buy for the visitors! Furthermore, the entertainment programme will keep people energised and informed throughout the weekend with choir, floristry and fitness performances, and tourism operators taking to the stage to tell us more about holiday opportunities in Scandinavia. The highlight is of course our special guest, none other than the original Wallander, Rolf Lassgård, who will take part in a Q&A session on Sunday, hosted by our own columnist Lars Tharp.

The talented Danish lady on our cover should be familiar to all after her role in the Oscar-winning In a Better World, as well as her performances in the Danish classic The Celebration and the recent hit A Royal Affair. Trine Dyrholm, who is now starring in Susanne Bier’s new film Love Is All You Need, alongside Pierce Brosnan, tells us all about kissing the former Bond star – among many other things.

Nia Kajastie Editor

And now back to my woolly socks – they’re actually not that far removed from our special insert this month, focusing on products “Made in Norway”. You will indeed find some warm, comfortable clothing brands as well as producers of felted wool slippers among the companies. Of course quality knitwear is not the only thing that Norway is famous for – just have a look. For our other special themes this month, we’ve picked out a comprehensive selection of innovative and reputable architecture companies in Sweden and Denmark.

Scan Magazine

Copy-editor

Margrete Dybbroe

Issue 45 | October 2012

Mark Rogers

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Published 02.10.2012

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4 | Issue 45 | October 2012

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Scan Magazine | Contributors

Regular Contributors Nia Kajastie (Editor) was born and raised in Helsinki, Finland, and moved to London in 2005 to study writing. With a BA in Journalism & Creative Writing, she now describes herself as a full-time writer and grammar stickler. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”. Julie Guldbrandsen is Scan Magazine’s fashion and design expert; she has worked in the fashion industry for more than 10 years, and advised various Scandinavian design and fashion companies. Besides, Julie has a BA in business and philosophy and has lived in Copenhagen, Singapore and Beijing before settling down in London. Swedish Sara Schedin is a freelance writer with a degree in journalism from City University London. She moved here in 2006 and is currently covering Scandinavian culture in the UK. Norwegian freelance journalist Anne Line Kaxrud fell in love with the British Isles after watching a few too many Hugh Grant films. Having lived in the UK for seven years, she finished her education in International Relations/Politics and Communication before working in journalism, PR and marketing. Danish Yane Christensen has lived in London half her life. She’s a designer, illustrator and mother of twin girls. She also has an on-line shop www.fleamarketfloozy.com and writes to exercise her brain.

6 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. She writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

Magnus Nygren Syversen is a Norwegian freelance journalist and feature writer, who graduated from Middlesex University with a BA in Journalism & Communication in 2010. Having left London and relocated to the other side of the world, he is currently doing his MA at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia.

Karl Batterbee is devoted to Scandinavian music and knows exactly what is coming up in the UK. Apart from writing a monthly music update for Scan Magazine Karl has also started the Scandipop Club Night and its corresponding website: www.scandipop.co.uk.

Emelie Krugly Hill has worked on a number of Swedish newspapers. After travelling extensively, she has been based in London since 2006. Her particular interests are news and current affairs within Sweden and the export of Scandinavian culture to the UK.

Norwegian Didrik Ottesen is back living in London after a carefree time travelling around the world. He is currently doing his MA Journalism degree while also working as a freelance journalist and trying to play as much football as possible. Inna Allen is a freelance writer, translator and photographer whose passions lie in all things art and design. She moved to the UK from her native Finland in 2001 and has since developed a chronic yearning for sauna. Ulrika Osterlund spent most of her life in London, but recently returned to Stockholm, where she is working as a journalist. She studied international business in Paris and journalism in London. She is also a budding novelist. Having travelled much of the world, Signe Hansen, MA graduate in Journalism and previous editor at Scan Magazine, is now back freelancing in London, where she writes on everything Scandinavian and her main passions: culture, travel and health.

Anette Berve is a Norwegian freelance journalist based in London. She has previously worked in Buenos Aires for a cultural newspaper and is currently finishing her degree in journalism and Spanish. Margrete Dybbroe is Danish born and bred, but has a very soft spot for London. With an MA in English and music from the University of Aarhus, she has worked as a copywriter at an advertising agency for a great many years. Today, she is on her own, working as a freelance writer and translator from her own one-woman company, Text it! Ingrid Marie Holmeide came to London from Norway to study creative writing. She is currently working as a freelance writer and translator, while publishing her first novel.

Norwegian Karin Modig has lived in London since 1998: she arrived with the intention of staying just four months. She currently works as a freelance journalist and PR consultant, and is a keen handball player.

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8 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Trine Dyrholm

Trine Dyrholm: I feel ready to take on the world With more than 20 years of experience and five Bodil Awards under her belt, Danish actress Trine Dyrholm finally feels ready to take on the world. Scan Magazine had a chat with the 40-year-old, who stars in Oscar-winning director Susanne Bier’s new film Love Is All You Need (Den Skaldede Frisør). By Signe Hansen | Photos: Franne Voigt

Endeavouring to coin a fitting description of Trine Dyrholm seems a near impossible task. Her blue eyes, blond hair and indefinable look of goodness leave an uncomplicated impression, but when it comes to her work it is a different story. Art house films, mainstream TV series, awardwinning dramas, popular musicals, international film hits and avant-garde theatre. At forty, Dyrholm has, it would seem, done it all. Nonetheless, she continues to look for new challenges, and that is, the still striking actress reveals, one of the reasons she is, right now, starring in Love Is All You Need. “All my time as an actress I have worked continuously. More than anything the goal for me has been to develop as much as possible, and right now the chance of doing a romantic comedy seemed very exciting and challenging to me because I never tried something like that before,” she explains. From teen pop star to award-winning actress The desire, or maybe one could even call it need, to throw herself into testing projects has been with Dyrholm from the very beginning. At just 14, she stole the spotlight at the Danish Eurovision final in 1987, and though not the official winner, her

song went on to become an evergreen in Denmark. Nevertheless, Dyrholm’s musical talent was soon overshadowed by her acting skills, and in 1998, her role in Thomas Vinterberg’s sensational Festen (The Celebration) brought her beauty and talent to the attention of the international film world. Working abroad, however, was a challenge Dyrholm did not feel ready for yet. “I usually joke that back then I was young and pretty but just wasn’t ready, and now I am old and, well, maybe it is too late in some sense, maybe at forty it will be hard to create a career abroad, but now I feel ready,” laughs the actress, who lives together with dance choreographer Niclas Bendixen and their three-year-old son. Despite her self-deprecation, Dyrholm, who was praised as the “best actress in the world” by Alec Baldwin in 2008, in no way seems out of place when appearing alongside world stars such as her co-star in Love Is All You Need Pierce Brosnan. Working with Denmark’s top female director When Susanne Bier asked Dyrholm if she would like the lead part in her new romance Love Is All You Need, the actress

did not hesitate to say yes. It was just the kind of light-hearted project she had been looking for; she would be playing next to Pierce Brosnan, and, of course, having starred in Bier’s Oscar-winning In a Better World (Hævnen), she already knew the far-reaching potential of Denmark’s most celebrated female director. “The journey that In a Better World took was just unbelievable! I think everyone was just a bit like: wow, what a trip,” says Dyrholm. Her role in the film earned her the Danish Bodil Award for best leading actress, making her the only actress (or actor) to have received five Bodil awards. Although a romantic comedy, like In a Better World, Love Is All You Need has a serious side to it. Dyrholm’s character Ida has just completed a course of chemotherapy but is still awaiting the final all-clear when she walks in on her husband cheating on her with a young beauty. The film, however, portrays it all in a humorous and warm light, which is accentuated by beautiful settings as the family travels to southern Italy to celebrate Ida’s daughter’s wedding. “I think Susanne [Bier] tells some essentially relevant stories. She has something widely appealing in her storytelling, something American almost, but at the same

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 9

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Trine Dyrholm

Trine Dyrholm stars alongside Pierce Brosnan in Oscar-winning director Susanne Bier’s new film Love Is All You Need (Den Skaldede Frisør). Photos: Doane Gregory

time she has a European voice,” explains Dyrholm and stresses that although the film is a romantic comedy it has a lot of edge. Film critics, who have generally received the film with great enthusiasm, agree with Dyrholm, calling the rom-com categorization too loaded with superficiality to fit the film’s unique quality. A hard-earned kiss When watching a film like Love Is All You Need, it is hard not to imagine that making it must be a bit like diving into a fairytale world, but, not surprisingly, says Dyrholm, it is also a lot of work. “It was very hard because often when you film abroad you work very long hours, and Bier films in very longs sets. She works a lot with moving cameras in the way that she stages a scene and then you don’t know for sure where the camera is, which is very demanding because you have to be in character all the time.” Working with Brosnan was, however, stresses the actress, not at all unpleasant. “In the beginning I was like: oh no, Pierce

10 | Issue 45 | October 2012

and me? That’s an odd thought! It was not something I had sort of seen coming, and, of course, I was a bit nervous about meeting him as he is such a huge star. But all that was thoroughly put to the ground because he is a very loving, very generous and very down-to-earth person.” The job of kissing the former Bond star was not too bad either. “It was nice! We built up to it for so long so it was good to get a go, but I think it was just too short!” she reveals with a laugh. First Bond then the world While Dyrholm’s first spell in the international spotlight arrived quite suddenly, her recent ascent has been at a deliberately steadier pace. In recent years, several of her films, including Troubled Water (2008), In a Better World (2010) and A Royal Affair (2012), have received international acclaim and awards. “Back during the time when Festen came out, I was just too young to want to go along with it. I was too insecure about my skills and what I wanted; I didn’t dare to make that move. Whereas now, now I have grown up, for me it has been a

journey of development as an actress,” she explains. When asked if this means she has acquired a thirst for more international work, the answer falls without hesitation: “Yes, absolutely! But at the bottom of my heart what really interests me is to do good movies and interesting projects; if I can combine that with travelling and meeting talented people, then I would be incredibly happy.” With a characteristically radical change of genre, Dyrholm’s next project 3096 should provide all of the above. The German film is based on the real life kidnapping of Natascha Kampusch, with Dyrholm starring as Natascha’s mother.

Love is All You Need is released in cinemas all over Europe between September and December 2012 and is set for theatrical release in the UK in April 2013.

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Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this... Stepping into the autumn months, we have been browsing through some of our favourite Scandinavian design shops for interior deco inspiration. We came up with this selection of design pieces, which we find absolutely delightful. By Julie Guldbrandsen | Email: julie@scanmagazine.co.uk

Beautiful and high-quality copper saucepan with stainless steel handle by Scanpan. www.scanpan.dk

Designed to lean against the wall, the Mañana Lamp designed by Swedish Marie-Louise Gustafsson originated from a sketch of a simple stick figure. Slim, simple and elegant. £262. www.husandhem.co.uk

Create aesthetically blissful order with these attractive storage boxes. £89.50 for a whole set or from £11.99 per box. rootsliving.co.uk

12 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Graceful and delicate porcelain series by Finnish Jatta Lavi. Handcrafted with great attention to the little details. Dishwasher safe. Prices from £13. www.nordicdesignforum.co.uk

Retro-cool wooden candlesticks by SuperLiving. From £17. www.northlighthomestore.com

‘Cats & Dogs’ kitchen towel from a supercute range of towels designed by Maria Holmer Dahlgren. Machine washable and compostable. £3.50. www.scandiliving.com

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary... Fall fashion is about transitions. Adjusting to the changing climate can be done effortlessly with great knitwear and beautiful scarfs. Take advice from the fashion pack and invest in some luxurious woollies. Chic jacket versions as well as oversized are very ‘now’ - and keep it modern with leather and metallics. By Julie Guldbrandsen | Email: julie@scanmagazine.co.uk

Luxurious and stylish knit jacket by sustainable fashion brand Aiayu. £289. Call +44 (0) 0203 651 1371 for stockists

Cuddle up in style with this deluxe cashmere scarf by Yarmood. Range of colours available. £200. www.yarmood.com

Leather leggings are any fashionista’s closet-staple. Pair with a big knit sweater for the day and a silk top for the evening. £350. malousander.lazylazy.com

These unique handmade bracelets in leather and sterling silver by Marie Terre are an ideal way to give your outfit a pop of interest. £120. www.marieterre.co.uk

Versatile and wearable ballerinas by ECCO, in a modern metallic hue. £85. shopeu.ecco.com

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 13

Bejewelled by nature Adorn your skin with delicate leaves, flowers, icicles, raindrops, ripples on the sea and other beautiful forms and features found in Swedish nature. Drakenberg Sjölin, the duo behind these unique designs, creates jewellery that blends strength and fragility in an organic way and that adds a touch of elegance to both your everyday and evening look. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Drakenberg Sjölin

Andrea Drakenberg and Ellen Sjölin have known each other for twelve years now, having originally met in New York City, far away from the Nordic nature they so cherish. In 2009, after Andrea had completed her degree in silversmithing and jewellery design at Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design, and Ellen had obtained a masters degree in economics from Linköping University, they found the perfect opportunity and timing to unite their creative passion.

14 | Issue 45 | October 2012

In November 2008, the two met up for dinner, both bursting with creative ideas, and decided to test the waters with their own company. While it might have started as a side venture, Ellen confirms that “it was so much more fun than the sales agency thing” she had recently moved over to. “It gained momentum from the very start, so we were pretty much working full time by January 2009, with extra jobs on weekends,” she adds. A clear concept from the start

Andrea Drakenberg & Ellen Sjölin

Drakenberg Sjölin’s jewellery is divided into several different “families” taking their inspiration and names from nature, ranging from Rosebud, Leaf and Pebbles to the newest addition, Rain, available as necklaces, earrings and bracelets in 925 silver and oxidised silver. A new family is added every season, while the others will continue to be available as the designs don’t follow trends but stand for timeless elegance.

Scan Magazine | Design | Drakenberg Sjölin

Grass cufflinks

And it all started with a lot of research. “We wanted to have a good idea of what we wanted to communicate, a clear concept and clear values. We thought about what we look for ourselves when buying jewellery. We concluded that there was a gap in the market as there are not a lot of design pieces available for low prices, whereas high-end design is often very expensive,” explains Ellen. “We researched our core values for a long time, and they’re very clear now. We aim for simplicity, thoughtfulness, timelessness and the raw elegance found in nature,” adds Andrea.

Pebble studs

ested, get excited about the design and buy something for their wives or daughters.” While they were not originally sure what kind of customer the jewellery would suit best, Andrea and Ellen were happy to find out that it attracts a very varied group of people, from trend lovers to rockers, of all ages, even customers who don’t usually wear that much jewellery.

For more information, a list of authorised retailers and to buy the products online, please visit: Drakenbergsjolin.com or drakenbergsjölin.se

Accordingly, the elegant yet simple pieces can be dressed up or down depending on the style of the wearer and the different families go seamlessly together. The designs convey both everyday elegance and sophisticated glamour in an intrinsically Nordic way. Inspired by Scandinavian nature and design

Lily flower medium earrings

Leaf small studs

While Andrea and Ellen both loved the hectic pulse of New York City, it was their longing for Scandinavian nature and its untouched qualities that brought the two together in reality; and what is felt and seen in nature is also apparent in Scandinavian design language, which is simple, clean yet with a rough edge.

Rain big studs

“We like simple things; design that is very simple and never too much. Less is more,” says Ellen. “We try to capture that simplicity as well as the Scandinavian essence in everything we make.” Timeless design for everyone

Flora small earrings

At their shop in the old town of Stockholm, the duo is in direct contact with their diverse customer base. “We, of course, get a lot of Swedish customers but also some from abroad, and they range in age from 25 to 60, but what they have in common is that they really feel a connection to nature and the themes in the design. It really means something to them, and they often come back to buy more pieces,” explains Ellen. “Even male customers, who are usually not that inter-

Rain necklace

Rain long earrings

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 15

Scan Magazine | Feature | Big Scandinavian moments at the London Games

Lasse Norman Hansen won gold for Denmark in the men’s omnium.

associations under the Sports Confederation with financial support for elite athletes under Team Denmark. Preparations were optimal with the athletes able to keep a sharp focus during the Games,” says Niels Nygaard, chairman of the Danish Olympic Committee. The sporting spectacle aside, the Games provided a platform for showcasing the best of what Scandinavia has to offer as a tourist destination and business partner.

Big Scandinavian moments at the London Games In the aftermath of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Scandinavian athletes and exporters reflect on an unforgettable summer spent reaching for the global spotlight.

The countries held their own events around the British capital during the Games. For instance, Denmark set up camp at St. Katharine Docks near Tower Bridge, showing the global audience everything from Lego and hotdogs to wind energy and designer kitchens. Another example is Sweden, which decorated the embassy façade with coloured blue and yellow lights to celebrate their medallists. The core effort, however, was a strong emphasis on social media like Twitter.

By Thomas Bech Hansen | Photo: Das Büro for Danmarks Idræts-Forbund and Team Danmark

Athletes from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden made their region proud as they stretched their skills to the max in London and the UK’s other Olympic and Paralympic venues. Many performances will forever be etched in Scandinavia’s sporting history. The Norwegian women’s handball team retained their title in style, making local followers question why the sport is not more popular in the UK. An export adventure could be in the making. Among the heroic sportsmen was Dane Lasse Norman Hansen, gold medallist in the men’s omnium. Having crashed heavily, he shrugged off the bruises and staged a phenomenal comeback. The 20-yearold could have been mistaken for a Team GB member as he had the entire velodrome on its feet in jubilant applause.

16 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Another big moment came when Fredrik Lööf, alongside Max Salminen, won gold for Sweden in the Star Sailing competition. The feat was impressive in itself, but the fact he did so just months after the death of father and mentor Ingvar Lööf made it even more emotional. His tears at the podium in Weymouth will live long in Swedish sporting history. Antti Ruuskanen deserves a mention too. He tightened Finland’s traditional grip on bronze in the men’s javelin event, emulating Tero Pitkämäki’s success from Beijing in 2008. The Scandinavian countries can now reflect on a successful summer, where Nordic virtues played a significant part. For Denmark, it was the best games since 1948. “Our success was largely down to the Danish model where we combine amateur

“We increased our capability to communicate with media and the public about ‘brand Sweden’,” explains Jon Pelling, press attaché at the Swedish Embassy. “The social media capability will be one of the lasting legacies from the Games in our endeavours to communicate about Sweden in the UK.”

Nordic Medals 2012 Olympics

Gold

Denmark: Norway: Sweden: Finland:

2 2 1 0

Paralympics Gold Sweden: Finland: Norway: Denmark: Iceland:

4 4 3 1 1

Silver Bronze 4 1 4 1

3 1 3 2

Silver Bronze 4 1 2 0 0

4 1 3 4 0

Scan Magazine | Feature | Nordic Noir Film Club

Above: Stars of False Trail, Rolf Lassgård (left and top) and Peter Stormare (middle). Right: Borgen star Birgitte Hjort Sørensen. Rolf Lassgård (5 October) and Birgitte Hjort Sørensen (6 October) will be present at the Nordic Noir Film Club events in London.

Nordic Noir Film Club with special guests To say that the Scandinavian drama genre has experienced a dramatic increase in popularity over the last years would be a serious and crude understatement. Kickstarted by Stieg Larsson’s Millennium novel series and the subsequent film adaptations, the genre now widely known as Nordic Noir has hypnotised millions of viewers – and it’s not letting go of its grip. By Julie Linden | Photos: Courtesy of Nordic Noir

Dedicated to the love of Nordic darkness, the Nordic Noir Film Club is presenting film devotees with a unique chance to get up close to the phenomenon. On two exclusive event nights, club members will not only get to enjoy private screenings but also get to ask Scandinavia’s biggest stars their most burning questions. Who could fail to remember the iconic thriller The Hunters (Jägarna) from 1996, starring Rolf Lassgård as the cunning police officer Erik? Following up on his praised box-office hit, Kjell Sundvall has directed the much-anticipated sequel False Trail – where Erik returns to Norrbotten to solve the mystery behind a gruesome murder. This is your chance to

Touching on the subject of iconic status in Nordic Noir, one could not by any chance overlook Danish political drama Borgen. Joining The Killing series in manifesting a clear Danish grip on the TV drama throne, Borgen shot to instant success with vast audiences. While season two of the series will not air in the UK until 2013, Nordic Noir Film Club members will have the chance to see the first episode as early as Saturday, 6 October, at Soho Hotel. Oh, and if you cannot wait to see if journalist Katrine Fønsmark will cope with her ruthless editor-in-chief – why not ask her? Borgen’s very own Birgitte Hjort Sørensen, who plays Katrine, will stay on for Q&As after the screening.

Birgitte Hjort Sørensen in Borgen

see False Trail, months before its UK release, at the Nordic Noir Film Club’s first ever members-only screening on October 5. And it gets better: Rolf Lassgård, the original Wallander, will be present to answer any query you might have.

Both event nights are exclusive to members of the Nordic Noir Film Club. To join the club and to buy tickets, please visit: www.nordicnoir.tv

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 17

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All the best of brand Scandinavia for you to taste, test and buy! 6-7 October 2012

Earls Court, Brompton Hall, London

The Scandinavia Show will be returning on 6-7 October 2012 to the Brompton Hall at Earls Court London. The Scandinavia Show is the only UK show dedicated exclusively to showcase the best of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland. The show incorporates Scandinavian design, travel, lifestyle, fashion, culture, music and food and all our exhibitors have well-stocked stalls – everything can be purchased at The Scandinavia Show. Food All the most mouth-watering specialities from the Nordic culinary table will be handed out or sold at The Scandinavia Show. Meet Rolf Lassgård The Original Wallander Gold Sponsor

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The humane mix of the red colour from Falun and the Nordic light

AR SP CH EC ITE IA CT L T UR HE EI M N S E: WE DE N

By Catherina Fored, CEO at Swedish Association of Architects

“The light and the democratic tradition are probably the most typical for Swedish architecture,” says Swedish Association of Architecture Director Catherina Fored. “Features that have characterised my own projects in the past.”

The CEO at Swedish Association of Architects, Catherina Fored. Photo: Urban Orzolek

Architecture is the design of rooms and houses, and much more. Neighbourhood subdivision, the beauty of a park and the organisation of a city. Swedish architecture is characterised by our place on earth and by our traditionally strong connection to the particular Nordic light. The low set sun, the red dusk, the bright summers and dark winters. Architecture must always relate to this and adapt, interpret and resolve. Our cultural roots rest in the red wooden cottage so typical of Falun, which is always repeated and renewed. It mirrors the longing for the small, the earth and closeness to nature. But also our rapid industrialisation and urbanisation during the 20th century. The vision of democracy is reflected in the organisations of buildings and societies. Functionalism is not a style, it is a humanist approach. Space is

Swedish design The hallmark of contemporary Swedish Design is vital diversity. The deeply rooted perception of excellent Swedish design with simple stylistic consistency is no longer taken for granted. The conceptual process behind the final result is the decisive factor. Designers are not tied down to one country, but work around the world, sharing international references and contacts. This global outlook prompts designers to seek their personal roots, identity and craft – fulfilling a need for affiliation and continuity. Small design-led businesses with unique identities are enjoying a renaissance – telling their own stories and producing their products locally on a small scale. Several young designer collectives have emerged on the Swedish scene and helped to displace the highly individualistic trend of just a few years ago. The international success of Swedish

Photo: Magnus B

By Ewa Kumlin, Svensk Form

Ewa Kumlin, managing director, Svensk Form.

design is also due to the many bold manufacturers who are willing to stake their futures on new young talents, yet without compromising long-term quality. Viable long-term developments are the biggest challenge of our day. We have no other choice: everyone has to work for sustainable development. Designers are a natural link between manufacturer and consumer. They can influence the integration of social, environmental and economic aspects into a product’s de-

Architect: Tham & Videgård Arkitekter Photo: Åke E:son Lindman

created for our social and practical activities. For socialising and privacy. Swedish architecture is in constant dialogue with the outside world. We affirm influences – lately we have become susceptible to Japanese influences which are readily reflected in a minimalist tradition. This is how architecture contributes to the Swedish open society. For more information, please visit: www.arkitekt.se

sign, manufacture, marketing and communication. Global warming is an acute problem. Yet it also involves sustainability close to home: involving materials, quality and having a society accessible to everyone. Increasing numbers of manufacturers base their work on an environmental policy that generates more added value and international competitiveness. Swedish Design, with its long tradition and humanistic perspective, is today perhaps more in demand than ever. Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Craft and Design) www.svenskform.se is a membership society, the oldest society of design in the world, founded in 1845. Historically Svensk Form has always been working in the forefront of new ideas and visons in the design and craft field, and has initiated several movements and milestone exhibitions throughout its time. Svensk Form publishes the design magazine FORM, produces exhibitions and works under the motto “A better life through good design”. Svensk Form is the founder of the Swedish Design Awards.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 19

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Your dream home is one Ross house away Ross Architecture & Design have been creating dream homes and enhancing their customers’ quality of life for 16 years. In an enduring and innovative living space that seamlessly mixes the ultra-modern with the ultra-classic, you can “Live in a Work of Art”! Founder Pål Ross takes your dreams and makes them a reality – even “mission impossible” commissions. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Ross Architecture & Design/Mikael Damkier

With a background in engineering and a creative streak that he inherited from his family, Pål Ross has always recognised the importance of environment in the way people feel and is also deeply interested in making lives and living spaces work better. His company’s approach has been a bit different from the very beginning, and they have been ahead of the curve in many

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ways, including being the first architecture company in Sweden to have a website back in 1996, and taking advantage of advertising opportunities when the bans were finally lifted. Pål Ross began his career working for a commercial company, but soon realised that because architects were merely assigned to sections of the project, or small pieces of the whole, there was a general lack of understanding for the complete picture.

“There is a cause and effect to everything,” Ross explains. “And out of a growing enthusiasm as well as some frustration, Ross Architecture & Design was born in 1996. My ambition was to provide homes that did not need to be picked from a catalogue as was typical in Sweden. Ross created a new niche within the corps. We offered exclusively designed homes, and so far we have designed over 200. It has been fun but a lot of work as well.” Timeless and customised designs Ross’s innovative and award-winning architecture has strong roots in Scandinavian architectural history, and the unique blend of ultra-modern and ultra-classic creates a design that is timeless.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

“I think about architecture the same way I do about fashion: The clothes you buy might be right for this season but won’t work two years from now. Our houses, thanks to the building system we use, are estimated to stand for at least 300 years. Within architecture, in terms of composition and design, there are many values that have been relevant since ancient Greece. It is a language,” says Ross. “And the expressions that have endured for 2,000 and 500 years, and were right then, will be right a hundred years from now.” While investing in a Ross house is both economical and secure, what is also crucial for Ross is the customers’ satisfaction and not just with the look of the end product but also with how living in it feels. Ross Architecture & Design create residences that are specially designed to meet the wishes and needs of the customers, as well as the requirements and demands of each unique environment. “We have a special way of working,” explains Ross. “We hold extensive interviews with the people who will be working or living in the environments we create. We take into account special interests and people’s way of life (both his and hers individually),

and surroundings are also very important. The location has to be respected as nothing in nature is ever ugly, perhaps strange and different, but ugly things are manmade. The beautiful place that existed before the building should be enhanced not destroyed when the house is finished.” Pål Ross conducts the interviews with customers himself and takes care to get to know the people thoroughly. He wants to see life through their eyes in order to be able to create the right kind of living space. This is also why they have been so successful in always delivering a dream home. With their high customer satisfaction, one might be led to believe that Ross Architecture & Design build the houses themselves as well, but while this is not the case, they do follow the whole process closely and keep in contact during the building phase. Spotting a Ross house and future developments Ross Architecture & Design win a lot of new clients due to their reputation and glowing recommendations from previous customers, as seen on their website, but you might also be able to spot their houses when driving around the Stock-

holm area. These works of art are sure to catch your attention with their delicately rounded forms and bold features that blend into the surrounding environment. While Stockholm is indeed the best place to spot a Ross house, the company does work with projects in other countries as well, including in Turkey, where they have recently designed a delightful community with holiday homes. The sizes of their projects are growing in general, and they are enthusiastic about designing everything from a large family home to a bank or a restaurant. Another project that is in the pipeline and has been a long time coming is the design of lifestyle communities for the 60+. “It’s an issue in Sweden as there are not any good residential options for when you grow old,” says Ross. “We want to make a difference and thank the elderly for all that they have done in their lifetime.” In five years from now, Ross hopes to be able to finish the first of these lifestyle communities. For more information, please visit: www.ross.se

Top left: Pål Ross, founder of Ross Architecture & Design. Below and right: Ross’s innovative architecture represents a unique blend of ultra-modern and ultra-classic design.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 21

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Älvsjö Resecentrum - A public transport hub for trains and buses. The station building also contains a bicycle parking garage over several floors.

Rundquist Architects – A part to play in all aspects of public space Whether it is individual stations or whole city developments, Rundquist Architects has the impressive ability to combine technical questions and architectural curiosity into stunning urban solutions. By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Rundquist Architects

Rundquist Architects has gained a good reputation due to their high-quality design of infrastructure, public transport and city planning. While the majority of their work involves terminals, bridges and stations, they also have a finger in city developments all over Sweden. “We work with all aspects of the public space and recognise the interaction between infrastructure and city planning,” founder and owner Henrik Rundquist says. The firm was established in 1999 and has in the past decade made its mark by com-

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bining interesting architecture and technical requirements. All the way from large-scale projects, including bridges and whole city regions, to smaller details and equipment in public space, Rundquist Architects is involved in urban life. Combining technical issues with architectural solutions Due to the nature of many of their projects, the firm lives on an in-depth understanding of technical issues as well as architectural expressions. By combining the

two, they have created some of the most interesting infrastructural solutions in the country. “In order to create attractive spaces for people to be in, we need to understand the technical requirements related to, for example, a station or a bridge, which influence our architectural approach. It is thus perhaps more important to us than for many other architect firms working with office buildings and private homes to fully grasp the function behind the task,” Rundquist says. This has, however, not proved to limit the firm’s artistic freedom, and they have been awarded numerous prizes for their interesting solutions, including the European Steel Design Award and Swedish Steel Prize for their Floating Roof in Vällingby, a floating roof of steel and glass over a complex of

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Top left: Älvsjö Resecentrum - Interior view of one of the floors in the bicycle parking garage. Middle: Jönköping Skeppsbrokajen - Proposal for a new city development in relation to the planning of a speed train from Stockholm to Gothenburg. Right: Arlanda Pir F - New terminal building at Arlanda airport, Stockholm. In collaboration with KHR architects AS (Photo: Martin Sundström).

streets and squares. “While functionality is crucial, our projects often reflect the current time we are living in,” Rundquist adds, and the Floating Roof is an excellent example. Different backgrounds coming together As with architecture generally, it cannot work entirely on its own. When you add challenging technical issues into the mix as well, it is even more important to collaborate across disciplines. Thus, the firm prides itself on close cooperation with engineers, landscape architects and those with other disciplines, in addition to property developers. The first bicycle parking house in Stockholm Hailed as a step toward a greener future, Rundquist Architects worked on Älvsjö Resecentrum, a public transport hub in an area of Stockholm. The new interchange

station includes train and bus stations, and one peculiar addition, namely a bicycle parking house over several floors. The only one of its kind in Stockholm, it has featured in the Swedish media as an architectural contribution to a greener future. “Cycling is very typical of the time, and by building a parking house, it encourages cycling over public transport. Living in a country with snow and rain half of the year, this is a more civilised way of treating the bicycles,” Rundquist says, and notes that it is an interesting contribution to sustainability. “It certainly adds architecture into the discussion.” City planning influenced by infrastructure A great part of the firm’s work is related to city planning and infrastructure, and how the latter influences the former. An example is their recent proposal for a new city development in the Swedish city

Jönköping, which is a direct consequence of the planned speed train from Stockholm to Gothenburg that will pass through. “This area will be a natural centre precisely because of the planned route. Our task is thus to develop the area surrounding the station,” Rundquist says. Another similar project is the proposal for Stockholm Free Port. Due to population growth, commerce and private homes are approaching the functioning harbour, and the proposal revolves around creating a new city borough attached to the harbour, as well as establishing public transport links into the city centre. “Both projects reflect the interaction between infrastructure and city planning, and how interdependent the two are,” Rundquist adds. For more information, please visit: www.rundquist.se

Above left: Floating roof in Vällingby - A roof of steel and glass expanding over a complex of streets and squares. Right: Allébron - Bridge for trams, cars and pedestrians in Stockholm. First prize in an international competition. In collaboration with KHR architects. Photos: Kasper Dudzik.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 23

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Market hall competition, Gothenburg

Urban Design – Making urban life even more interesting Urban Design makes the city more interesting with its innovative architecture. So look out for riding centres and office buildings alike, as the firm has its finger in an impressive collection of projects.

committed to each and every project they work on.

By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Urban Design

The firm’s ability to work with a great variety of projects has given them a unique stand within the market, and Jarlöv emphasises the importance of continuously developing. “We do not work according to a formula or particular method but continue to think new,” he says. “Interest and devotion are the two most important factors in architecture and are more important than any methods.”

Interest and devotion drive the company

True to its name, Urban Design works with architecture related to the city and urban life. Since their establishment in 2001, they have worked with numerous projects, ranging from industrial energy projects to student accommodation. “We are the only common factor in these projects, and every project is treated according to its unique prerequisites,” founding partner Erik Jarlöv says. Together with the other founding partner, Helena Glantz, whom he studied with in the 1980s, they have developed a firm that is strongly

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Sustainable solutions from within The Urban Design team at their office in Stockholm. Founding partners Helena Glantz and Erik Jarlöv in the foreground.

Jarlöv emphasises the value of international cooperation as it allows for knowledge sharing across borders. “We have

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

much to learn from the international arena, while also having much to contribute. Particularly discussions around energy and sustainability, in addition to various social issues, open up for new opportunities of cooperation,” Jarlöv elaborates. Sustainable solutions are particularly close to the heart of the firm. While it is important in the bigger projects as well, they emphasise the necessity of having a personal platform for sustainable development. An example of this is the firm’s own environmental calendar, where the employees make note of their work towards a sustainable future, including cycling to work and meetings rather than driving. “It is important to take one area at a time and also realise that not all systems are easily transformed to fit into the sustainable platform. Take power stations, for example, they will hardly ever make the cut,” Jarlöv notes.

emissions in Sweden. “It is an interesting project to work on, particularly as it has so much to say for the city both in terms of architecture but obviously also as a source of power,” Jarlöv elaborates. The firm recently won another competition within the field, a Waste to Energy station in the Ukraine. Similarly, this project aims at sustainable energy production.

Another proof of the firm’s wide expertise is their current work with student accommodation. The rental market in Stockholm is difficult, where the demand is high while the production of new homes is low. The project is thus an important part of the city’s development, and while keeping the contractor’s financial situation in mind, they are developing accommodation where they can combine living with socialising, including restaurants, parks and physical activities.

Holiday escapes abroad On quite a different note, the firm has attracted attention for its expertise in developing holiday escapes. It all started with the redevelopment of a rundown tourist hotel in Crete, turning it into the magnificent family hotel Ocean Beach Club. Since then, they have worked on a series of projects around the Mediterranean, where the latest project involves new holiday houses in the Turkish village Türkbükü.

Other current noteworthy projects include a public riding centre and swimming pool. “These are interesting aspects in an urban environment,” Jarlöv says.

For more information, please visit: www.urbandesign.se

Integrating a power station In 2006, Urban Design, together with Danish Gottlieb Paludan Arkitekter, won the competition to develop a new bio-fueled combined heating and power plant in Stockholm. Located by the Värta Harbour, it has proved an interesting project of integrating what are normally regarded as less attractive buildings in a vibrant city borough. “As Stockholm has grown, areas like the Värta Harbour are integrated into the city centre. Thus, appearance is yet again an important aspect of these power stations,” Jarlöv says. “At the beginning of the 20th century, power stations were important architectural works, with Ferdinand Boberg’s gas and electricity buildings as appropriate examples. However, it was followed by a time when only functionality mattered, leaving the interest for appearance and architecture behind, and thus pushing these buildings into the backyards. But we are now experiencing a return to previous considerations.” The new heating and power plant in Värtan will in fact be the most important source of district heating in Stockholm, and the project is one of the largest individual measures to reduce carbon dioxide

Top left: Palmfelt Center, Stockholm. Top right: EcoEnergy Waste to Energy plant, Donetsk. Below: The new heating and power plant Värtaverket, Stockholm

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 25

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Above left: The Artipelag art gallery was created by Nyréns in the Stockholm archipelago. Right: The offices of award-winning Swedish architecture practice Nyréns.

A gleaming pearl in the Stockholm archipelago Sweden has a new star on its scene, the Artipelag art gallery, located on Värmdö, 20 kilometres east of the capital. The name is a play on words, fusing the concepts of art, activities and archipelago together.

be it an office block, hotel, cultural site or restoration area, the main theme shines through.

By Ulrika Osterlund | Photos: Charlie Bennet/Nyréns

“We aim to work together with people to create architecture which is meaningful, humanistic and upholds social sustainability while remaining true to our style, which pays attention to the light, details and internal sectioning,” explains acting director Bengt Isling. “We also endeavour to sustain the uniqueness of each place.”

Conceived over ten years ago, the project is the brainchild of Björn Jakobson, founder and owner of the company BabyBjörn, who entrusted acclaimed architecture bureau Nyréns with creating his vision. A true nature enthusiast as well as patron of the arts, Jakobson wanted a space where culture and landscape could blend. Together with Nyréns, he found the island of Hålludden to be the perfect location for his idea to become a reality. The

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building is constructed in such a way that it appears to be growing out of the earth’s surface. Nyréns’ experience in the architecture world spans over half a century; at present it is one of the biggest firms in Sweden with a mind-numbing variety of projects under its belt. Ranging from building and interior design to landscaping and urban planning and with everything in between,

Nyréns’ humanist values were equalled by those of Jakobson who wanted to give something back to the community, and

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Artipelag covers an area of over 10,000 square metres over three floors, with 22 acres of surrounding natural scenery, and wide wooden footpaths meandering along the coastline.

what better way than with an ambitious cultural undertaking that would be close enough to the city whilst showcasing the unique Swedish archipelago. Hence, the story of Artipelag began. The project was to become the final creation of the late architect Johan Nyrén and a culmination of his lifework. The gallery is a testament to Nyréns’s architectural style that is carried on by the practice, embodying a sensitive understanding of context and location that is brought into every project. One of the exhibit halls at the arts centre is even named after the architect and truly showcases the Nyrén style with specially drawn walls and the advantageous use of natural light, blurring the lines between the inside and the outside. There is also an arts room of 3,000 square metres and a so called “black box” of 1,200 square metres with a seating capacity of 1,000 people, where other events are held such

as theatre and music shows, conferences and banquets. All in all, Artipelag covers an area of over 10,000 square metres over three floors, with 22 acres of surrounding natural scenery. This at-one-with-nature theme can be felt throughout the complex, from the entrance hall where the visitor is met by the four elements in various guises, earth, wind, fire and water, and the two-millionyear-old rock face in the restaurant, which is also part of a permanent exhibition, to the star gazing platform on the roof. Incidentally, the roof has been voted the greenest in Scandinavia this year. You can also step outside and make your way around on the wooden walkways meandering along the coastline and through the trees, and enjoy the spectacular view. Artipelag boasts both permanent and temporary exhibits. The opening presentation entitled “Platsens Själ” explores the

realms of nature, architecture and art and how they interact in contemporary society, a very topical issue indeed. Other exhibits include a visual essay by the renowned photographer Candida Höfer and the history of how artificial light has become a medium for art. To experience a beautiful mix of art, culture, architecture and Swedish design at its best, head out to Artipelag. It truly is the natural visiting spot for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the real beauty of Stockholm, and is easily accessible by boat, bus or car.

For more information, please visit: www.nyrens.se www.artipelag.se

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 27

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Skype office by PS Arkitektur, Photo: Jason Strong Photography

PS Arkitektur – Creating storytelling architecture PS Arkitektur offers more than just remarkable office buildings and private homes. Equally important as aesthetics and functionality is the history behind each project and creating unique projects that all have a story to tell. By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: PS Arkitektur

Stockholm-based PS Arkitektur, since its establishment in 1996, has marked itself as a firm that always puts architectural storytelling first and is known for creating homes and office buildings that reflect the client, user and location. “A home or office should not only be functional but tell a story about something. Whether it is the location or the use, each of our projects is unique as it has a different story to tell,” founding partner Peter Sahlin says. Architecture as storytelling The firm specialises in office buildings and homes, and the aim is always to cre-

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ate architecture that moves the people in and around. “It is better to focus on a few areas we would do really well than to cover many in a half-decent manner,” Sahlin says, and their approach is clearly successful judging by their portfolio. Boxer, Teracom, Skype and MTV are only some of the prominent clients that have taken advantage of the firm’s ability to create interesting solutions. “We always aim to find architecture or interior design that meets the dreams and desires of the client, and our projects are consequences of their curiosity and willingness to be surprised,” Sahlin says. “Architecture

should be unique and personal, and it is thus important to understand the use, the client and, not least, the environment in which the project is located. Then, we define the story that constitutes the architecture.” In the spirit of Skype An excellent example of this is Skype’s research and development office in Stockholm. With playful details, a technically impressive layout and a finish that reflects Skype’s ability to connect people across the world, PS Arkitektur created an office that truly fitted Skype’s image. Finished in 2011, the firm has won several international prizes for their work, including first prize for “Outstanding design of the Year” at the Modern Decoration International Media Award in Hong Kong.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

In line with Skype’s profile, sound and light were crucial aspects of the project, and PS Arkitektur had to design the office in such a fashion that engineers were not affected by reverberation and echoes made by their colleagues. “Naturally, using Skype can be disturbing for other people around. Thus, we created an environment where the sound stays for no longer than 0.5 seconds, while it is normally closer to a second,” Sahlin explains. While the technical environment was crucial, so was the design. Building on Skype’s image, the firm based the design on three stories, namely how Skype connects the world, Skype’s own cloud logo, and the daily items associated with the company such as wires and headphones. “Every aspect of Skype was transformed into a metaphor, which is visible all over the office through patters, wallpaper and furniture,” Sahlin says. Homes that tell a story PS Arkitektur is also known for its interesting private homes. While the list is long, one house in particular catches the attention. Villa Blåbär, translating into Villa Blueberry, is an astonishing house in the outskirts of Stockholm, located with the forest and hills on all sides of the building. Inspired by the location, the architects designed the house in line with

Villa Blåbär by PS Arkitektur, Photos: PS Arkitektur

nature and built it according to the ground’s slope. Similarly, the house is entirely black on the outside and white on the inside, this too to underline the colours of the nature. “It was a challenging design process, but the client was very curious and keen, and we found the very best solution of which we are very proud,” Sahlin says.

difficult to transfer this to numerous houses, where they easily appear like copies. However, drawing on inspiration from the nearby Wäsby Castle, the firm opted for an accordion-shaped design, where the houses are leaning in different directions, but coming together exactly like an accordion. “It is a rational design, while also creating that ever so important story,” Sahlin says.

At one with nature Another challenging project is the upcoming Wäckare Äng housing project, a development of 63 irregular and slanting row houses. While one house can easily be unique and interesting in itself, it is always

For more information, please visit: www.psarkitektur.se

Above left: Founding partner Peter Sahlin. Right: Housing project Wäckare Äng by PS Arkitektur

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 29

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Maintaining the majestic style and quality of Drottningholms Palace is one important aspect in the AIX commission as house royal palace architect. Photo: Åke E:son Lindman.

AIX Arkitekter – Creating modern architecture based on historical knowledge By learning from the past, AIX Arkitekter are aiming to create future historical buildings. With a focus on quality above all, they have become a renowned firm within urban planning, new construction and restoration.

the same – how can they create lasting buildings? Resource allocation

By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: AIX Arkitekter

The Stockholm-based firm has made its mark around Sweden and abroad with quality-based solutions, architectural design both on new construction projects and rehabilitations of existing cultural heritage buildings. The AIX endeavour is modern buildings that will continue to influence their surroundings for many years. “We want to contribute to contemporary and future architecture by creating long-lasting, robust and sustainable so-

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lutions,” marketing director Lars Johansson says. “We think with a hundred years’ perspective.” While the core of the firm revolves around rehabilitation of historical buildings, the AIX portfolio also includes an increasing amount of present-day design, development of whole neighbourhoods, public buildings and schools. However, while the projects may differ, the subject is always

“It may be bold, but we aim to generate buildings that will be historically significant in the future,” Johansson says. By creating new design based on experiences from old buildings, AIX uses their knowledge to both vitalize the cultural heritage environment and create modern architecture that will bear the ravages of time. “It is very much on everyone’s mind now to think responsibly and sustainably. This is our way of creating environmentally friendly architecture,” Johansson says. “Everyone is searching for the perfect

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

green technology. We argue that our approach works well in the long run; high quality, durable structures, functionality and architectural design are efficient instruments for resource allocation.” Not repeating the past However, it is important to point out that AIX are not repeating the past but merely using design qualities from long-lasting buildings in current projects. “We do not want to copy historical architectural expression but acquire knowledge, analyse and truly understand quality, which in turn allows us to create lasting buildings today,” Johansson says. “New buildings in built-up environments have to be designed in an existing and historical context, whether it's a nearby park, the street or another neighbourhood, they’re elements to keep in mind when working on new constructions. Together, knowledge of quality in the broadest sense and understanding of context create the basis of any project.” The firm houses a variety of backgrounds, including architects, interior architects, building antiquarians and engineers. Add people with experience from historical property organisations and you have the perfect mix. CEO Gunilla Persson, with a background in the National Property board, says: “It is a clear strength of the bureau to have people from the other side of the table, but the greatest asset is the assortment of backgrounds. While some may be thinking more along historical terms, others are more creative; as teams they will come up with great architectural solutions.” Palace architects Not many architect firms are able to claim two in-house royal palace architects. One of the AIX senior partners, Erland Montgomery, has worked extensively on Drottningholm Palace, the royal palace in Stockholm, residence of the present royal family. Eva Göransson, another AIX senior partner, is deeply involved in the vitalization of Rosersberg Palace; inhabited by Royals up until 1860, it now houses tenants such as the Swedish Police and functions as a conference venue, easy to

Top left: Stockholm Cathedral renovated and vitalized in connection to the royal wedding ceremony 2010. Photo: Åke E:son Lindman. Below: The award-winning equestrian hall at Flyinge Kungsgård Kungsgård, modern construction fitted into a listed historical environment. Photo: Natasja Jovîc. Right: Hall building used for training of police and rescue dogs at Rosersberg Palace with referents to past and present historic structures in the surroundings. Photo: Peder Lindbom.

Modern expressions

authorities how to incorporate a modern large hall into the protected historical environment. “It was challenging; nevertheless, we created a building inspired by historical construction in existing large roof spans and stables within the site. Incorporating understanding of such architectural quality as well as technical functionality, we designed new structural details with a clear modern expression linked to comparable historic objects within the manor,” Johansson says.

One of the most accurate examples of how the firm has learned from working with historical buildings, transferring the knowledge to new constructions, is the award-winning equestrian hall, completed in 2005, at Flyinge Kungsgård, close to the old city of Lund, southern Sweden. Flyinge is a listed site, and it was a delicate matter to the building antiquarian

A similar task is a recently completed hall used for training of police and rescue dogs fitted into the Rosersberg Palace environment. Designing a modern, simple but architecturally expressive timber structure, they aim to establish referents to past and present historic structures in the surroundings. The building is currently nom-

reach from the Arlanda Airport. “Palaces like Drottningholm and Rosersberg are incredibly valuable buildings, both historically and as comprehensive cultural environment sites open to public visitors. It is particularly interesting to work on these projects as one has to maintain the old and majestic style and quality, while adapting them to current time and usage,” Persson notes.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 31

Photo: Koncept

Photo: Jonas Kullman

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Copperhill Mountain Lodge in Åre, hotel and luxury resort, one of Europe’s largest wooden buildings. Photo: Mats Olofsson.

inated for one of Sweden’s most appreciated architectural awards.

ing it certainly is a hotel for the future,” Persson adds.

Architecture in wood

New prominent Stockholm buildings

Wood is a central material in several recent AIX projects. Already mentioned are the hall buildings. Another example is Copperhill Mountain Lodge in Åre, one of Europe’s largest wooden buildings. In close cooperation with the American architect Peter Bohlin, AIX created a 17,000square-metre hotel complex on the top of the mountain Förberget, providing guests with an amazing view of the winter landscape. “The collaboration with Peter was a key factor in this successful project; while having different areas of responsibility, we always had a clear focus on our joint goal,” Johansson notes. The hotel opened in 2008 and has attracted great attention, mainly due to its remarkable architecture. The central lobby atrium, featuring a large fireplace made of Offerdal-slate and a four-floor high copper wall, welcomes the visitor; while solid stone walls paired with an untreated timber frame and Oregon pine panelling give the building a strong character. “The Norwegian hotel entrepreneur Petter Stordalen later bought the hotel. He is now marketing the building as an exclusive resort to international visitors, prov-

Another AIX hotel building is estimated to be completed by 2014, a large project of 27,000 square metres. It will dominate the entrance to the Hammarby Sjöstad neighbourhood, at the southern border of the Stockholm urban inner circle. At the

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northern inner city circle frontier, along Valhallavägen, AIX are the architects behind a new building for the Royal College of Music, a 20,000 square metre large complex, ready to host close to one thousand young musicians by 2016. For more information, please visit: www.aix.se

Above left: Contemporary expressive wooden architecture in extension building, revitalized shopping centre listed as a cultural heritage site. Photo: Mats Håkansson. Top right: Alléhusen, hotel, offices and shopping, a gateway to the Hammarby Sjöstad neighbourhood at the southern border of the Stockholm urban inner circle. Illustration: AIX . Below: New building for the Royal College of Music, Stockholm northern inner city circle frontier at Valhallavägen. Illustration: AIX.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Above left: Tvålflingan, residential tower and complex in Stockholm. Top right: Infill residential development in the centre of Stockholm. Below: Public bath in Hudiksvall harbour.

Simplicity and surprises go hand in hand with Kontur Expect the unexpected from Kontur, the architect firm that relies on simple materials and an added twist to create astonishing buildings. By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Kontur

Since its establishment in 2003, Kontur, which translates to contour, has made a reputation within the market for its simple yet surprising solutions to private homes, offices and commercial buildings. “We are inspired by playful geometry,” founding partner Fredrik Joråd says.

pected”. By simple, they refer to good function and economy, while unexpected refers to creativity and high architectural quality. “The motto influences our work from the very start until the end. Rationality and clarity are important factors of course, but we also like to add unexpected twists,” Joråd says.

“Simple and unexpected” While projects are often complex, the firm lives by its motto “simple and unex-

Student housing and public space in the centre of Stockholm.

Tvålflingan – an artistic dream An excellent example of this is the Tvålflingan project, a development of 167 flats divided into three buildings in Stockholm. While the buildings are of concrete, the architects have cooperated with an artist to cover the facades with flower patterns. “It is the first time, in Sweden at least, anyone has worked with graphic concrete of this size. While the concrete is a rational choice of material, the graphic adds another dimension to the buildings,”

Joråd says, and adds that the buildings were designed with the intention to strengthen the area's profile as a design borough. Another noteworthy project is Åkermyntan Centrum in Stockholm. Originally a rundown shopping centre from the 1970s, Kontur took it on themselves to completely renovate the exterior and interior in order to return it to a dynamic and blossoming trade and meeting point. The existing motley unit and the other parts are linked by common facade elements in the form of a band of perforated metal, creating simplicity and stringency in both materials and colour. Spotting new projects Kontur wins many of its projects through competitions, as well as spending an extensive amount of time coming up with interesting ideas themselves. “It is rewarding to find and develop new projects in collaboration with developers as we contribute on more levels than the purely architectural and help our partners in creating considerable value,” Joråd notes. For more information, please visit: www.kontur.se

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 33

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Stockholm School of Economics: from the new courtyard space, the new building to the left (left); façade and entrance towards the park (right).

Ahrbom & Partner – Creating harmony, combining old and new Ahrbom & Partner have set their mark all over Stockholm, with the Court of Justice, theatres and university buildings on their list. Over the years, the firm has gained momentum with its combinations of old and new and, not least, its unexpected solutions. By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Åke E:son Lindman

The architect firm has extensive experience in restoring, improving and developing buildings within Stockholm city centre. By combining old traditions and new impulses they have been involved in some of the most culturally important projects in Stockholm. “We enjoy creating unexpected solutions by uniting old and new and are constantly challenging ourselves by taking on new kinds of projects,” founding partner Per Ahrbom says. Setting their mark on Stockholm The firm may not be among the biggest in Sweden but that has had little effect on their influence in Stockholm. City landmarks such as rebuilds and extensions of the Royal Opera, the Stockholm City

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Theatre and the Court of Justice are all represented in their portfolio, as well as educational institutions such as the Royal Institute of Technology and the Stockholm School of Economics. “It has been important to us not to get too specialised but show to the clients as well as to ourselves that we approach every project with fresh eyes,” Ahrbom says. “We avoid getting stuck in one way of thinking, and it is far more fun with varied tasks.” Ahrbom himself can refer to a long and successful career, including work with the temporary placement of the Swedish parliament in “Kulturhuset” in Stockholm and designing the Stockholm City Theatre, before establishing Ahrbom & Partner in its current form 15 years ago. “Throughout the years

we have worked with a variety of important state and institutional buildings around Stockholm, from restoration and developing to interior design. I believe that it is one of our main strengths that we work with a variety of tasks,” Ahrbom notes.

The Stockholm House of Justice: from the new inside courtyard with waiting room, cafe and a new building containing courtrooms. Picture: Ahrbom & Partner

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

The Royal Institute of Technology, main library: façade (left); the book hall, the new building in the front flanked by the two wings (right).

While Stockholm is the centre point of their work, you can also find their touch in other Swedish cities such as Gothenburg, where they are currently working on the City Hall, and in Uppsala, where they are designing a new main building for the Swedish University of Agriculture Sciences. Also outside Sweden they work on projects such as the Swedish embassy in Beijing. Combining old and new “Every project is unique, and you always have to bear in mind the purpose of the building, whether you are working with a new or old building. However, when working with restoration and development, it is crucial to look at the original drawings. Sometimes it is better to stick to it, not making your own mark, while other times you add a new part and choose a modern design. A good solution may create unexpected values for the client and for the activity, and at the same time, the old building retains, or even increases, its cultural value,” Ahrbom says, but adds: “You get a successful result only by analysing each project with new eyes and ears.” Creating unexpected solutions Some of the most astonishing examples of the firm’s ability to combine new and old

are the library at the Royal Institute of Technology, the Court of Justice and the Stockholm School of Economics. While being different in nature, Ahrbom & Partner found a similar solution by designing an extra building and covering the outdoor space between the different buildings with a glazed roof. “Living in Scandinavia, we unfortunately do not have that many days of sun and heat, meaning that these spaces went to waste during large parts of the year,” Ahrbom says and adds how the new rooms have been welcome contributions in the projects. “We usually say that they got an extra room they did not ask for,” he says. Due to the glass, the rooms are largely lit by natural daylight and are areas people come to socialise in as well as work. “At the Stockholm School of Economics, the space is used for reading, chatting, parties and seminars, and has truly become the heart of the school,” Ahrbom notes.

that is to be built in Stockholm. The Nobel Prize Centre will include The Nobel Prize museum as well as new facilities for the Nobel Foundation. It has been a long time coming, and it will attract attention from all over the world. “Skrapan” in Stockholm: rebuilt and complemented with a new building for student housing and for a shopping galleria.

The long wait for the Nobel Prize Centre is coming to an end Currently the office is also contracted to assist the Nobel Foundation in making feasibility studies and assisting in the development of the programme and competition brief for the new Nobel Prize Centre

For more information, please visit: www.aop.se

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 35

Illustration: Murman

Photo: Åke E:son Lindman

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Creating tailor-made designs for a wide spectrum of clients Murman Architects is engaged in a broad selection of projects, ranging from largescale buildings like Microsoft’s new offices in Stockholm to holiday homes in the north of Sweden. The firm’s focus is to create unique and high-quality solutions for its clients. By Sara Schedin | Photos: Christoffer Näs, Murman

”Many architecture firms have a specific style which is visible in everything they do, but we want to create something custom made for each client. The final result should be something that will help strengthen their identity. As an example, when we’ve designed houses in the Swedish mountains, we’ve taken inspiration from the surrounding nature and local building traditions,” says CEO and partner Wivian Eidsaunet.

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Since Hans Murman founded the firm in 1985, it has steadily grown from a oneman company to its current size of 35 designers, of which as many as 14 are interior designers. “We do everything from furniture design to urban planning. There is a constant knowledge exchange at the office, and we all get inspiration from each other,” says Eidsaunet.

The firm’s architects are involved in many different types of projects. This means that someone who has worked on a small-scale project in the form of a holiday home can then adapt the solutions they have learned there when designing something on a larger scale, like student housing, for example. “If we had one architect who only designed offices, they would start to look quite similar, but since there is a constant mobility within the company, we never stop developing,” says Eidsaunet. The abolishment of desks One of their current projects is to redesign Microsoft’s offices in Stockholm. The of-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

fices will be designed in line with Microsoft’s New World of Work, which is a modern way to look at the workplace. The office of the future is a place where employees will no longer be tied to one desk but instead will be able to work whenever and wherever they are. Photo: Michael Perlmutter

“Young people are beginning to question why they should sit by a desk when they can work on their laptop anywhere. It is just not making sense to them,” explains Eidsaunet. However, an office is still necessary to have as a place where you can exchange ideas, get inspiration from your co-workers and have access to technical equipment. With this in mind, Murman Architects is creating offices for Microsoft’s 600 employees, which will have rooms and stations designed for different purposes. For example, there will be smaller rooms where employees can write reports and other rooms with large tables where they can work in groups. Caring for the environment Another office Murman Architects has redesigned is Solna Gate. It used to be a dated office building that no one wanted to rent, but now it has been revived and modernized with respect for its original features. “When working with property development, we ask ourselves: what should we preserve and what should we redesign? It has to suit a modern workplace, but the building should still tell its history. It’s also interesting from an environmental point of view to consider how much of the old we can keep,” says Eidsaunet. Murman Architects work with sustainable solutions, materials and architecture. An example of this is Scania’s executive office in Södertälje, which they designed in 1996 after winning a competition. It is now time to renew the office, but they will only make a few changes since the client is still very happy with its construction and interior. The building industry uses a lot of materials, which means that it also has a big re-

Partners Wivian Eidsaunet, Helena Andersson and Ulla Alberts. Photo: Pernilla Thelaus

sponsibility when it comes to environmental issues. At Murman Architects, they always ask their clients if and how they want to work with environmental concerns. They make sure that all employees are up to date with new low-energy materials and methods of construction. Eidsaunet explains that they also have to take into consideration that they have a re-

A selection of current and past projects: Student housing in Stockholm and Solna Murman Architects has been commissioned by SSSB, which is Stockholm’s leading student accommodation provider, to create 1,000 new student flats in the city’s surrounding areas. This comes as good news after the recent media debate about the lack of student housing in Sweden. Residential buildings in the north of Sweden They are currently developing wooden residential buildings under own management

sponsibility for the built environment. People are supposed to work or live there, so it is important to find a balance between this and building in an environmentally friendly way.

For more information, please visit: www.murman.se

in Umeå, in partnership with the wood processing company Martinson and the technical consultant Tyréns. Restaurant Tusen Situated in the ski resort Ramundberget, Restaurant Tusen’s façade is clad with birch logs. It is built so that its shape, design and material interlace with the surrounding landscape. It has been featured in books and magazines worldwide and was the winner of the category ’Holiday’ at the World Architecture Festival in Barcelona in 2009.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

NOD Innovation centre in Kista, Stockholm. Illustration by Olof Philipsson. Client: Atrium Ljungberg.

The architectural ‘it’ factor Seventeen years of experience in a wide variety of different architectural projects has afforded Stockholm-based Scheiwiller Svensson Arkitektkontor a strong reputation for creating solutions with an ‘it’ factor that are also “unexpectedly obvious”. CEO Ari Leinonen notes that there is a difference between square metres and architecture, and Scheiwiller Svensson is beyond doubt an office that creates architecture instead of nondescript spaces. By Nia Kajastie

Currently Scheiwiller Svensson Arkitektkontor is going through some important changes, including nominating a new board chairman, and Leinonen confirms that this heralds a more innovative direction for the office. With a solid foundation of successful projects and exciting new work in the pipeline, Scheiwiller Svensson is going from strength to strength. “We love the smell of concrete,” laughs Leinonen. Three interesting projects that are presently underway are the power plant expansion and renewal project in Västerås; the Akzo Nobel House in Sickla,

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Stockholm, which will include laboratories, workshops and offices together in

Ceo – Ari Leinonen

one building; and NOD in Kista Gård, an inviting building for arts, culture and science, among other things. The team behind the project While these projects are diverse and complex in nature and require solutions that reflect their individual contexts and needs, Scheiwiller Svensson’s analytical approach still stays the same. The analytical phase is a thorough process that cuts straight to the core of the project: its purpose, location, users and definition (commercial, housing or retail); and the more in depth this phase is, the easier it is to create a clear architectural concept. So while the questions and considerations are the same, be it for a restaurant, shopping centre or office, the answers are always different. “Another important factor, which distinguishes us from others, is to consider and choose the team for the project carefully. It’s crucial to put together the right team for each specific project. Often senior architects are teamed up with younger ones, creating a good balance,” explains Leinonen.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Left: Youth Housing Building in Högdalen, Stockholm. Photo: Åke E:son Lindman. Client: SBC Mark. Top right: Office Building in Hammarbysjöstad, Stockholm. Illustration by Micha Sotkovsky. Client: Skanska. Bottom right: The Swan; Office and hotel building outside Gävle, Sweden. Illustration by Micha Sotkovsky. Client: Länsförsäkringar.

Whether won through competitions or commissioned separately, a new team will always be selected for a project. Creating better spaces Ari Leinonen has acted as CEO of Scheiwiller Svensson Arkitektkontor for one and a half years now, but he has been involved with the office since its founding. After taking on the role, he wanted to further emphasise that it is indeed an architectural office with a vision and they are not just filling square metres. “The difference with actual architecture is that if the project had not been realised, the space would be worse off,” he notes. Accordingly, Scheiwiller Svensson aims to have a positive impact on the areas it builds in, thus creating better, more interesting spaces. As an example, Leinonen mentions the youth housing in Högdalen, a suburban district in Stockholm. “Before the building, the location seemed a bit worn and tired, but now the design building adds a point of interest.”

Built out of precast concrete with the exterior corridor side covered in glass detailing, the façade changes its appearance through the day. The inside of the glass surface is composed of different colours, which light up the surroundings in the evening. The stained glass balconies facing the yard also add life to the building, and light and shadow play on the grooved concrete surface.

Leinonen puts it. Nothing overly complicated, but a building that works in its context and constitutes a better place for the people that inhabit or live around it.

“Unexpectedly obvious” Scheiwiller Svensson Arkitektkontor is known for working on all their different architecture projects in a creative, professional, cost-effective and ecological manner. The large scale of different kinds of commissions can be seen as one of their biggest strengths; and, more importantly, the office constructs solutions with the users in mind, to make sure the people can live, work, study, take care of others, shop, be entertained and travel in the best way possible. Furthermore, the office’s objective is to design projects and solutions that will seem almost “unexpectedly obvious”, as

Restaurant and Skybar in the centre of Stockholm. Photo: Åke E:son Lindman. Client: Niklas Ahlbom

For more information, please visit: www.ssark.se

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 39

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Sweden

Left: ÅF’s new offices in Gothenburg. Top right: Kv Kranen. Middle: Solarium area on the Oasis of the Seas. Right: Myresjöhus Arena

A small firm with a broad knowledge of architecture Arkitektbyrån Design is a relatively small architecture firm with clients both in Sweden and abroad. The firm and its 27 employees offer a wide range of skills, and they design everything from arenas and cruise ships to spas and housing.

the original spa in 2008 and were then asked to add an additional part to it which has just recently been finished.

By Sara Schedin | Photos: Arkitektbyrån Design

“Our clients keep coming back to us, which is something I can only see as a proof of the fact that they like what we do,” says Iwdal.

“We’re a very creative office that believes in a close cooperation between clients, users and architects,” says CEO and partner Maya Iwdal. Maya Iwdal’s husband Lars established Arkitektbyrån Design together with his colleague Jan Åkerblad in Gothenburg in 1986. They received positive attention straight away after winning several competitions. The same year they started up, the team designed Sweden’s first adventure water park in Östersund. Two Finnish men from Silja Line visited the water park and liked what they saw, so they then asked the firm to create something similar on their cruise ships. The firm has also worked with the design of Oasis of the Seas - the world’s largest cruise ship.

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“Our work on Oasis of the Seas was a collaboration between several international architecture firms. This sort of teamwork is really rare in Sweden where most firms have an ‘each man to his own’ kind of mentality. I think that’s a shame since working across borders is a great opportunity to learn from each other,” says Iwdal. In addition to designing cruise ships, Arkitektbyrån Design works with a broad range of projects, including housing, commercial buildings, offices and interior design. Some of their latest projects are: a large office building in Malmö, ÅF’s new offices in Gothenburg and a football arena in Växjö. The firm has also worked on the expansion of Copperhill Mountain Lodge Spa in the ski resort Åre. They designed

The firm always strives to offer solutions with long-lasting quality to their clients, and Iwdal thinks it goes without saying that they are a green company that cares about sustainability and the environment. “I think, or at least hope, that all architecture firms in Sweden have an environmental approach to their work,” she says and adds: “It’s very important to us to ‘live as we preach’, so we make sure to not use any chemicals at the office and to always recycle.” For more information, please visit: www.arkitektbyrandesign.se

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: K ME MAR E N H L T DE

IN IA EC URE P S CT

E HIT C AR

SHOW ME YOUR MODEL – New Danish architecture seen through models. Exhibition at the Danish Architecture Centre, which runs until 21 October 2012. Left: Exhibition poster by DAC. Right: Illustration and model of the kindergarten Smørblomsten by COBE.

Architecture in Denmark The Danish Architecture Centre (DAC) is the Danish Government's primary player in the field of architecture and contributes to innovation throughout the construction sector. It aims to set up dedicated networks to disseminate information and share knowledge about the origins, present conditions and value of architecture, thus encouraging a broader recognition in society of the importance of high-quality standards in the built environment.

and economic value that architecture holds for society, but one of our core efforts is to communicate the latest architectural insights and developments to all interested parties – thereby informing both public and professional debate.

Text and photos by DAC

But not only do we address the public and the architectural community in a number of ways – at the same time we strive to put Danish architects and architecture on the international agenda.

Architecture is often called upon as a tool to solve societal problems ranging from ghettoization to spatial issues, and at a time where we’re witnessing the impact of human actions on the earth, its climate and ecosystem, sustainability is strongly on the agenda. Creating investigatory scenarios for the future of sustainable communities is thus certainly one of the relevant endeav-

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ours through which architecture can contribute to the future of the living conditions of humans in the 21st century. This societal responsibility is a challenge that we believe Danish architecture is well prepared to accept – at home and abroad. The DAC has a broad spectrum of goals that are all related to the social, cultural

For more information, please visit: www.dac.dk

The Center for Renhold (the Cleaning Facilities Centre) in Copenhagen.

Adding value to society The Copenhagen-based company Polyform Architects creates beautiful and functional architecture that will last a long time. The firm’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility runs like a red thread through each of its projects, be it a building or a whole new city area. By Sara Schedin | Photos: Ty Stange | Project credits: KBP.EU – Karres en Brands & Polyform

Polyform Architects was founded in 2006 by Thomas Kock and Jonas Sangeberg. They started out small but won a few big competitions in the beginning which lead to more work and recognition. The former two-man project has now grown to be a firm of around 20 employees. Polyform’s team transforms complex problems into attractive and sustainable architecture. They are specialists in everything from interiors and housing to landscaping and planning. “We offer the full package which makes the whole process easier and more efficient for both us and our clients,” says Kock. In addition to delivering personalized and professional consultancy to their clients, Kock emphasizes how important it is for them to give something back to society. A

good example of this is their recent project of designing the Center for Renhold (the Cleaning Facilities Centre) in Copenhagen. The people cleaning the streets of Copenhagen used to only have a container box to go to on their breaks, but now they have this beautiful and light head office and centre to stay and relax in.

The renewal of Købmagergade is another project which has improved the life of the people living and working there. Købmagergade is a shopping street in Copenhagen where natural stone in black and white hues have been used to create a coherent urban sequence. Both Købmagergade and the Center for Renhold are credited to KBP.EU which is a collaboration between Polyform and the Dutch landscape architecture firm Karres en Brands. “What these two projects have in common is that they add value to the city and the people living and working there, which is something that is very important to us,” says Kock.

“This has given the 100 people working here a place they can feel proud of. It has created a whole new identity for them,” says Kock. The centre is situated by a square in the medieval part of the city, but instead of taking up the whole square, the underground space underneath it has been used to create a unique and attractive building. There is now a playground on the square which the people living in the area can use.

Kultorvet – Charcoal Square (connected to Købmagergade).

For more information, please visit: www.polyformarkitekter.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 43

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Hamar Cultural Center (Norway), with theatre and concert hall, will transform Hamar's city centre into a vibrant public scene when completed in 2013.

Creating living communities Social spaces, sustainability and raw and unique designs are at the core of the work of Tegnestuen Vandkunsten, the award-winning architect firm behind some of Scandinavia's most attractive housing schemes. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Tegnestuen Vandkunsten

Founded in 1970 by architects Svend Algren, Jens Thomas Arnfred, Michael Sten Johnsen and Steffen Kragh Tegnestuen, Vandkunsten’s architects take pride in having continuously developed and respected the founders’ ideals. Søren Nielsen, partner since 2008, explains: “The original ambitions and ideas which laid the ground for Vandkunsten’s foundation are a very important part of our office’s history, and we still work according to them. The founding partners still work in the office so their thoughts are very much present in the work we do.” Today the company, which is located in Copenhagen’s multicultural and trendy Nørrebro neighbourhood, consists of ap-

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proximately 50 architects, seven of them partners. In 2009, Tegnestuen Vandkunsten was awarded the Alvar Aalto Medal, which since its establishment in 1967 has been awarded approximately every five years to persons or companies with significant achievements in creative architecture. The social communities Back in the 70s when Tegnestuen Vandkunsten was founded, the ambition to create housing entities which would not just house individuals but also create social communities was a major driving force. “At that time, in the early 70s, architects were very concerned with social issues, and our office in particular was concerned

with social communities and generating buildings that could support them and that is what we still try to do today to the degree that our clients allow us,” says Nielsen. When talking about social communities, many might associate them with the hippie-style communities which characterised the 60s and 70s, but, today, that is not what it is about at all. What Tegnestuen Vandkunsten aims to do is to combine individual homes and facilities with shared spaces and social and leisure facilities. “We are supporting the community by, for instance, creating and operating facilities for people to read, hang out and just have a life together. For instance we have a residential scheme, Teglværkshavnen in Copenhagen, where we have placed a number of residential flats on top of an enclosed swimming facility. Besides, you walk out of your entrance door, down the stairs and right into the harbour where the water is also clean enough for swimming, and at the same time, you can fish and do

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

On the outside of the terraced houses of the Jystrup community, small private gardens meet the rural landscape. Jystrup is an example of a residential community structured as an interior street with split terraced residences on both sides. Photos: Jens Kristian Seier

water sports like kayaking. There are also common kitchen facilities and a common house, but, of course, everyone also still has their own kitchen so it is not a community in the way we have previously done it,â&#x20AC;? stresses Nielsen. The striking housing project, which is located in Teglholmen, southern Copenhagen, is built on poles out into the harbour creating the impression of a small but closely knit island.

Cubistic, black timber-clad boxes of the KvistgĂĽrd low-cost residences form strict courtyards for semiprivate outdoor living. Photo: J. Kristian Seier

Raw designs When looking at the numerous buildings created by Tegnestuen Vandkunsten all over Scandinavia, there is a huge variety in purpose, design and location. Although most are residential buildings, the firm has also put its hands on a string of cultural buildings, offices and renovation projects. And, though you might not necessarily be able to recognize a Vandkunsten building, most of them do have something in common, explains Nielsen.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have always used very raw materials. Partly we do it because, most of the time, compared to other offices, we work with very tight budgets so we have to get the best out of cheap materials, but it also supports the ideology that if you use unpreserved materials, the way they come from the manufacturer, then you get a more relaxed atmosphere. You could say that you dress down the building to get an informal and non-conformist atmosphere by using raw mate-

The MTB residences stand out as a landmark, adding identity to the surrounding neighbourhood by its volume and history. Residents have access to the interior street from the waterside. Photos: Jens Linde

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 45

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Teglvaerkshavnen from the waterside – a marine park settlement. The residential blocks of Teglvaerkshavnen are placed on the top of a bathing facility. Photos: Adam Moerk

Sustainability and reuse

sustainability aspects,” explains Nielsen. Among these project plans is an attention-grabbing development proposal to make the Danish parliament the most energy efficient in the world. While this project is still just a vision, other projects, almost as impressive, have been realised all over Scandinavia. One of them is the KKH building in Malmö, which is Scandinavia’s largest Passivhaus (a Passivhaus or ‘Passive House’ is a building for which thermal comfort can be achieved solely by postheating or post-cooling of the fresh air mass which is required to achieve sufficient indoor air quality conditions – without the need for additional recirculation of air). As a few other Danish architect firms, Tegnestuen Vandkunsten offers solutions under the German sustainability certification scheme.

The question of energy sustainability and environmentally conscious material use has been at the heart of Tegnestuen Vandkunsten’s work for decades. “We have always been focusing on sustainability, but we have started talking and thinking more and more about it, and, since the middle of the 90s, we have been building demonstration projects featuring different kinds of

In recent days, the focus on sustainability has broadened even further out and is no longer only about energy but also material use. “In Denmark, we have very high insulation standards, and previously focus has been almost uniquely on saving energy for building operation. But in connection with the materials there are still

rial. I think that is characteristic for many of our buildings.” Tegnestuen Vandkunsten also commonly uses the “dressing down” philosophy when restoring or transforming older buildings, meaning that they expose elements from the buildings original use and incorporate them in the new purpose. This is strikingly exemplified by the Torpedo Halls in Copenhagen, which, built in 1954, served as a maintenance hall for torpedo boats. In the conversion the architects left the structural elements intact to emphasize the architecture of the 155-metrelong building, and thereby created 67 of Copenhagen’s most sought-after apartments.

The micro-blocks of the Viken (Sweden) residences are placed with gently shifting orientation. Photo: Adam Moerk.

considerations. We aim to use materials and construction techniques which can be disassembled for reuse. I think the reuse of materials will be an important issue in the future,” says Nielsen. “But of course the best way to ensure that materials are not wasted is to create buildings which are so wonderful that they will never be torn down!”

At a glance Tegnestuen Vandkunsten office is located in Guldbergsgade, 2200 Copenhagen. The office was founded in 1970 by architects Svend Algren, Jens Thomas Arnfred, Michael Sten Johnsen and Steffen Kragh. Employing approximately 50 architects, the firm specialises in city planning, residential buildings, office buildings, cultural institutions, renovation and landscaping all over Scandinavia and Northern Europe.

For more information, please visit: www.vandkunsten.com

Vandkunsten's contribution to the architecture biennale in Venice 2012 displays a proposal for a new Arctic building practice under the headline 'Greenland Inhabiting'.

46 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Cornelius + Vöge were chosen as the winner among 123 competitors to build the Hatlehol Church in Ålesund county in Norway.

When architecture tells a story In a world where everyday life is surrounded by mainstream products, Cornelius + Vöge believes in the importance of understanding the culture and identity of a location when designing a new building. They aim to design projects where the outline of a building is created by the culture of a place and the place itself. This way architecture becomes storytelling. By Rikke Oberlin Flarup | Photos: Cornelius + Vöge

The architecture studio Cornelius + Vöge was established in 2006 by architects Nanna Vöge and Dan Cornelius. The studio itself is based in an old workshop in central Roskilde. Here the duo works together with their employees on creating their projects. Projects which are far from mainstream. “Almost all of our projects differ in both idea and identity depending on their function and geography,” Dan Cornelius says. Cornelius + Vöge look at architecture as an art of communication, where a building should tell strong, present stories about the culture, identity and people surrounding it. “We want to tell stories that people can relate to, and we want to make it clear what kind of story is being told,” Cornelius continues.

Winning project Nordatlantisk Hus created for the harbour of Odense.

This is exactly why Cornelius + Vöge were chosen as the winner among 123 competitors from all over Europe to build the Hatlehol Church in Ålesund county in Norway. Instead of focusing on traditional religious symbols when designing the church, they aimed to find the things that best express the identity of the people living in the Ålesund region. In this case

those things were to be found in the region’s beautiful nature: the mountains, the water, the light. The idea to let the church interpret nature also meant putting great emphasis on optimizing resources, meaning building only with natural, local materials and making sure that nothing goes to waste. This process is known as Cradle to Cradle design. The Hatlehol Church will be the first public building in the Nordic countries to be built after these principles. The studio works with cultural buildings, urban planning and housing. Another thing close to the heart of Cornelius + Vöge is the villa, the preferred type of housing in Denmark. “For several years there has been a certain academic distance to the villa,” Cornelius explains. He believes that architects haven’t been truly interested in creating villas since the 1960s and hopes to change that. “We wish to designs villas for the quiet residential areas, making architecture part of everyday life again.” For more information, please visit: www.corneliusvoge.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Kronborg Castle, one of the historical landmarks that has gone through the careful restoration treatment of Erik Møller Arkitekter.

The art of maintaining a cultural landmark Erik Møller Arkitekter specialise in maintaining historic buildings for posterity. This includes both some of Denmark’s oldest icons and constructions from the recent past. The secret is in understanding a building’s values. By Thomas Bech Hansen | Photos: Erik Møller Arkitekter

Have you ever been sightseeing in and around Copenhagen? If yes, then chances are you have set eyes on restoration work from architect company Erik Møller Arkitekter. Christiansborg Palace, Elsinore Castle and the Queen’s residence, Amalienborg Castle: these are just some of the edifices to have gone through the careful treatment of Erik Møller Arkitekter.

“First, you must understand a building’s cultural and architectural historic values,” says Henrik Terkelsen, partner and architect at Erik Møller Arkitekter. “This understanding enables us to decide where to maintain existing features and where it might be feasible to make minor changes. The challenge is to secure the building for the future while maintaining culturebearing values for posterity,” he explains.

Fundamental principles The company also specialises in refurbishment projects with the aim of modernising protected or conserved buildings. Regardless of the challenge, the approach is based on two fundamental principles, perfected by Erik Møller Arkitekter over many years.

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The second principle is a profound knowledge of building materials and, specifically, how to combine old and new. “Paying respect to history while preparing for the future means we often have to mix historic materials with modern ones,”

says Terkelsen, who admits this is often a requirement rather than a wish. “We simply must meet today’s demands and regulations for climatic conditions and emergency precautions,” he explains. Preserving the 20th century Preserving culture-bearing buildings, however, is not an undertaking confined to constructions with hundreds of years behind them. Maintaining a detached home from the 1960s requires the exact same understanding of values as dealing with an 18th century rococo palace. A distinct feature of Erik Møller Arkitekter is using a time-honoured knowledge of working with historic landmarks to renovate buildings from the 20th century. “We regard a lot of these constructions as culture-bearers on the same high level as historic ones,” says Henrik Terkelsen, who believes many 20th century buildings qualify for an official protection label be-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

cially in the education sector, with primary schools, research facilities and universities among the references. Prisons have also become a bit of a speciality with one project, The Halden Prison in Norway, widely considered to be the world’s most humane prison. “The common denominator with all our projects is that we put the emphasis on human beings,” says Terkelsen. Human beings and the environment surrounding them, it appears. “We aim to build in a way where the impact on the environment from cities, buildings and people is limited as much as possible.” Erik Møller Arkitekter’s mission is to look after the future while respecting the past: “Our architecture is meant to be beautiful and age well so future generations can also be proud of it.”

Rosenborg Castle’s Marble Room

cause of their role in society. “Architecturally and structurally they depict the development of democracy itself,” he argues and adds: “Many buildings from the interwar period until the late sixties have significant architectural and cultural values.”

architectural values are maintained. This is our promise, even if we consider the fact that many 20th century buildings are in need of massive refurbishment, both in terms of general maintenance but also to make them more energy efficient.”

These values are, according to Terkelsen, coming under increasing threat. But, he says, the threat can be averted by using the same formula as when approaching a historical project. “Our fundamental working principles ensure that original

Primary schools and prisons Erik Møller Arkitekter’s competencies extend much further than maintaining, restoring and transforming buildings from centuries past. The company has won international acclaim for its work, espe-

Perhaps that is why people gazing at Copenhagen’s old sights to this day might feel a sense of pride. And perhaps the same feeling can prevail for years to come when strolling suburban streets of the 20th century. After all, “it is all about understanding a building’s values”, as Henrik Terkelsen puts it. Facts about Erik Møller Architects Erik Møller Arkitekter work in the space between restoration and new construction. They work all over Scandinavia with offices in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Lund, Sweden. Projects include Christiansborg Palace, Amalienborg Castle, Kronborg Castle, Rosenborg Castle, Sweden’s National Museum in Stockholm, Lund University, the Royal Danish Theatre, Hotel Skt. Petri and Technical University of Denmark’s National Centre for Micro- and Nanofabrication (Danchip). Erik Møller Arkitekter A/S, Flæsketorvet 75, Den Hvide Kødby, DK-1711 København V, T + 45 42 14 70 00, ema@ema.dk.

Technical University of Denmark’s National Centre for Micro- and Nanofabrication (Danchip)

Hotel Skt. Petri, Copenhagen

For more information, please visit: www.ema.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Left: Modern terraced seaside living, Ebeltoft Havnevej, Ebeltoft

the office? And so forth. Analysing these lifestyle requirements and implementing the results is what B19 is particularly competent at. Renovating old buildings is something they particularly enjoy at B19. They have recently completed the total renovation of a partly listed old school in central Copenhagen. The facade remains untouched, but inside the building now houses 16 apartments of a very high quality, with top modern facilities. “We have a lot of respect for the old and really enjoy combining the old with the new modern elements,” says Iben Schlanbusch Nørkjær.

When small is good... B19 is a small architectural firm located in an old bakery shop in Copenhagen. It consists of just two permanent staff, who are both architects, yet the company has a network of external professionals which is continually expanding. The network includes not just individual professionals but also firms and studios, each with a specific area of expertise. This is not only a great way of sharing skills, but by primarily using project-based freelance help, the firm reduces its overheads and can price their projects more competitively. By Yane Christensen | Photos: Studie E Photographic Office

B19 has experience in most areas of architecture, but its main area of competence is within developing ideas, designing and consulting, not just new-builds, but also extensions and energy-efficient measures. Recent projects have involved private homes, both single-family houses and apartments, as well as social housing. B19 is happy with its size and has no immediate plans for expansion. Owner Iben Schlanbusch Nørkjær believes that by being small they maintain a better relationship with their clients and can offer a more personal service. Throughout the planning process, the architects consult the future habitants. Does a family require

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social areas as opposed to separate rooms? Will the children be doing their homework in the kitchen? Do they dine al fresco regularly? Do they want a view from

They are also very proud of winning the pitch for building on a sought-after harbour plot in Ebeltoft. The owner wanted to give something back to the local community. B19's pitch entry involved building 40 black terraced houses. In addition to creating the complete drawings, they also had to find an investor and acquire planning permissions. The seller awarded B19 the project and the 40 new homes now stand as a an open and inviting recreational area for both the inhabitants and the locals.

For more information, please visit: www.b19.dk

Above: Renovation of an old school into modern apartments, Helgolandsgade 6, Copenhagen

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Above left: Ankerspelet housing, Malmö: The interplay between the variedly placed facades challenges and yet respects the general urban planning of the area. Above right: Award-winning Dunker’s Culture House in Helsingborg, Sweden: “A city within the city, functioning as the city’s living room.”

Places for people and the passing of time Award-winning Danish architect Kim Utzon insists on creating buildings that stand the test of time and where people can meet.

website and is an important mantra for Kim Utzon’s architecture.

By Thomas Bech Hansen | Photos: Kim Utzon Architects

“A house should be built to be able to stand outside at night,” Utzon jokes and continues: “Materials matter. If we can pick materials that age well over the years, that make buildings look increasingly beautiful with use, then we succeed.”

“What lives will be lived in and around the building? Who are the people that will inhabit it?” These are questions Kim Utzon, director of Kim Utzon Architects, always asks when starting up a new project. Creating possibilities for the social relations between people is at the core of Utzon’s philosophy. “It doesn’t matter if we are working on a kitchen or living room for a one-family house, the lobby for a hotel, a cultural building or a town square. The trick is finding out how we can make spaces for people to get together,” says Utzon. Multicultural challenge Right now, Kim Utzon Architects are working on Malmö’s new World Maritime University, a project commissioned by the UN to house students from all over the world. Meticulous preparation is key when undertaking such a task.

“We want everybody to feel at home and co-exist with each other, even if they come from vastly different backgrounds,” Utzon explains. “We have to collect all the cultural data, for instance when making prayer rooms to be used by students regardless of specific religious beliefs, to create the best frame for people’s activities.” Better with time The project in Malmö is the latest of Kim Utzon Architects’ projects abroad. They recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of the award-winning Dunker’s Culture House in Helsingborg, Sweden. The occasion provided the chance to evaluate the first decade of the building’s existence. Standing the test of time is of high importance. Architecture as a way to create “worthy frames for the lives of human beings”, is the first line on Kim Utzon Architects’

Selected projects from Kim Utzon Architects • World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden • Tivoli Congress Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark • Dunker’s Culture House, Helsingborg, Sweden • Christian Education Centre, Berlin, Germany

For more information, please visit: www.kimutzon.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 51

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

The Herstedlund Community Centre in Copenhagen.

Photo: Jens Markus Lindhe

Solutions for sensitive and complex architectural problems Public buildings for culture and sport, schools and kindergartens, housing and office buildings: Copenhagen-based Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter has gained experience through a wide variety of projects and is especially known in Denmark for unique building projects that form a strong relation to their surroundings, as well as for renovating and altering protected buildings in an innovative way. The office takes on sensitive projects within difficult contexts and cuts straight to the core of the problem while taking into account all aspects of the brief.

fessional appointments, she is a board member at Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and an appointed member of the Historic Buildings Council under the Act of the Ministry of Culture on Building Preservation and Conservation of Buildings and Urban Environments.

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Adam MĂ¸rk

She co-founded the company Fuglsang & Mandrup-Poulsen with her colleague Niels Fuglsang in 1995, but the firm was eventually split in 1999 and thus Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter was born. After winning several competitions, within two or three years the new office had grown rap-

Founder and owner Dorte Mandrup can refer to 20 years of professional experience, and numerous national and international awards, such as the Bauwelt Prize, AR Award for Emerging Architec-

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ture, and the prestigious C.F. Hansen medal. Her ability to cut to the core of a problem is recognized and used in international jury contexts, and her work as a lecturer and professor. Among other pro-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Protected modernist Munkegård School building, originally designed by Arne Jacobsen.

idly, and today it comprises a 32-strong staff. Over the years, its projects have been published widely and exhibited at a number of architectural events. New and old challenges Tackling both new constructions and restoration projects, Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter meets different kinds of challenges with every project, but whatever their methods, they are always based on thorough analysis of the client’s brief. “All of our past projects have been both challenging and interesting in their own way,” muses Mandrup. “Take, for example, the Herstedlund Community Centre in Copenhagen. The challenging part was that we had no users to take into the equation; we had to work without knowing

what kind of activities would be taking place there. This meant we had to find a flexible solution.” Working with a very open brief, the finished building would have to be able to work as a community building for locals of different ages and interests, and the spaces needed to work for different types of events and gatherings. The finished building is a user-driven facility that offers unprogrammed spaces, which afford the coexistence of multiple events at the same time. When it comes to renovations, the protected modernist Munkegård School building, which was originally designed by Arne Jacobsen, offered a whole new set of challenges. The school had to be

restored to the original delicate detailing and modernised to accommodate interdisciplinary courses and differentiated teaching. With an underground extension, which was designed to enhance interaction and create adaptable learning spaces, the result was extremely contemporary. Projects big and small in Sweden Currently Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter are working on five projects of varying sizes in Sweden for the HSB housing company, IKEA and Skanksa, and including a small kindergarten outside Helsingborg and an office building for Gota Media in Kalmar. “The project for HSB is very interesting as we have to bring out quality in a dense area,” explains Mandrup. “For IKEA, we’re

With an underground extension, which was designed to enhance interaction and create adaptable learning spaces, the finalised Munkegård School building is extremely contemporary.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 53

Gota Media office building in Kalmar, Sweden

creating a Global Meeting Centre in Malmö; and working for a company with such a strong brand like IKEA means that we have to think in a totally different way.” The office building for Skanska, also in Malmö, is a very textural project, where the façade will look like tiny waves, with changing lights. The Råå day care centre in Helsingborg, on the other hand, is set between the beach and the old fishing town of Råå in a protected area. Here, Mandrup and her colleagues face the challenge of making the construction part of the landscape it is set in. The new building is shaped as an interpretation of the condensed village structure immersed in a dune. The Gota Media project, which is being built on the listed fortifications of Kvarnholmen in Kalmar, is also a very demanding one, with a sensitive site full of cultural history that requires a sensitive touch.

it comes to protected public sites, you have to give back to the public.” The office also emphasises the flexibility of the buildings they design; they need to be durable and robust but also open for the future needs of their users. “You never know if the world is going to look different in 10 years’ time, and it’s extremely important that it’s still a wonderful space in 20 years to come.” “It’s also important to create buildings with character, even soul, making sure that they’re not copies of something that already exists. We try to make every building unique, while taking into account the project brief and the needs of the client,” explains Mandrup. “We don’t see the

Responsibility within architecture Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter acknowledge that architecture means making an intervention in a space and always aim to “give something back”. “It’s a big responsibility, and we have to give something back within the context of the space or for the area, whether it’s a private house or a public building,” says Mandrup. “Especially when

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Herstedlund Community Centre

buildings as works of art or ways to make ourselves visible in the world, but we do ensure that the buildings have their own character that fits the space, city and culture they are set in.” Above all, Dorte Mandrup Arkitekter want to emphasise that they are creating architecture for human beings. “As people’s lives are affected by architecture and the spaces they live in, it is important to know that you have that responsibility. Buildings are not meant to be sculptures that you have to view from far away as they are part of people’s everyday lives.” For more information, please visit: www.dortemandrup.dk

Left, top: Renovation of Borgerforeningen community centre, Svendborg; Below: New housing for researchers in Carlsberg city quarter, Copenhagen; Right, top: Conversion of the Slotfelt barn into a small cultural centre; Below: Renovation and conversion of the Danish Seamen's Church in Rotterdam, Holland

Finding the right balance between new and old Whether working on a new building within a historical context or rebuilding an old construction, Praksis Arkitekter always aims for a balance between new and old, innovation and tradition. Accordingly, the need to understand and respect history while also being able to challenge these traditions is at the core of the office’s architectural philosophy. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Praksis Arkitekter

Praksis Arkitekter, established by architects Mads Bjørn Hansen and Mette Tony in 2006, is a relatively small architectural office set in the southern part of Denmark. Both have previously worked for larger companies in Copenhagen and Switzerland, thus bringing a mixed bag of experience to the table. Mette Tony and Mads Bjørn Hansen

From villas to cultural houses, the office has taken on a variety of projects over the years. “We are doing a lot of different things, but our niche could be described as projects that have to fit into certain contexts,” explains Hansen. “We work with projects that have to have a balance, which is a very important word in our office. We know how to make new buildings fit into old contexts, and we specialise in

new buildings that have connections with older buildings.” Praksis Arkitekter recently won their first project abroad, namely the renovation and conversion of the Danish Seamen's Church in Rotterdam, Holland. “In a way, it’s a typical Praksis project where a specific kind of building with specific qualities, in this case

from the 70s, needs to be brought to 2012. The main thing for us to solve is how you do that with respect for the old building, the builder and the new building standards.” A big project starting in the next two to three months is one for Carlsberg, creating housing for researchers. The new building needs to, once again, find the right balance between new and old, as it will be set between two listed buildings within a listed garden. The conversion of the Slotfelt barn into a small cultural centre is among their most interesting projects to date. Owned by HRH Prince Joakim, the old barn was completely renovated and now includes flexible exhibition space and a floor created from stones that were lifted from the field outside. “Again it’s a question of balance and respect for the existing,” says Hansen. “And we’ve created a building that can only be set exactly where it is. When you walk in, you get the sense that the building can only be in this specific setting, and that is our goal.” For more information, please visit: www.praksisarkitekter.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 55

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

New Monument Area in Jelling: View from the northern burial mound towards the south.

Creating a contemporary framework for Danish heritage The Aarhus-based Office of Architect Kristine Jensen has worked extensively and successfully within landscape, planning and urban architecture for ten years now, creating innovative solutions for spaces and the people who inhabit them. A challenging yet thrilling project on their agenda is the New Monument Area in Jelling, which includes the Jelling burial mounds, runic stones and church, all included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as the newest finding, a magnificent palisade surrounding the monuments.

Danish history, all the way to the Viking Age and from there following the progress to the founding of Christianity in Denmark.

“It is often said to be the birth monument of Denmark,” explains Jensen. “We have three UNESCO-listed monuments in Denmark, this being one of them.” Gorm the Old and his son Harald Bluetooth, who By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Office of Architect Kristine Jensen reigned in the 10th century, have both Landscape architect Kristine Jensen left their mark on established the firm in 2002, which tothis area: the Jelling day consists of a 20-strong team. Her burial mounds, the broad experience, ranging from extenrunic stones and sive research and working for different church, and the architecture companies to taking on newly discovered trusted positions, has equipped her palisade surroundwith a solid knowledge of and great ing the monuments. interest in landscape architecture; her Thus reflecting the success in a wide range of architectransition period tural competitions speaks for itself. from paganism to Historic monuments Christianity, the monuments are a The project in Jelling has plunged This image shows the sandblasted notations of both the original finds and the intermagnificent maniJensen and her colleagues deep into pretations of the finds.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

festation of important events in Danish history. New findings After the discovery of the palisade surrounding the monuments, the Office of Architect Kristine Jensen was invited to create the large landscaping project by the Municipality of Vejle. The initiative has been made possible by generous donations from the Danish State and from A.P. Møller and wife Chastine Mc-Kinney Møller’s Fund for Public Benefit, and is under the supervision of the National Museum of Denmark and the Danish Agency for Culture. The office asked the recognised sculptor Ingvar Cronhammar to collaborate on the project as artistic consultant. Together they have created a new monument area that presents and visualises the findings in a modern way, while making sure it respects and interacts with the old burial sites. “It’s a magnificent project to work on with a fantastic geometry, originating from Harald Bluetooth. The geometry of the area is visualised in two basic materials used in three different forms: the monumental tiles, the tall poles, both in white concrete, and the planting of the large plain consisting of different grasses and thyme. These limited elements create an aesthetic tension to the historical elements. They are established in order to create continuity and to form a whole, and to emphasise the experience of the vast space covering 365x365 metres.” The original finds are represented on the actual site in the landscape and in a natural scale of 1:1 – walking slightly offset from the finds due to an archaeological safety zone. A system of differentiation, between the finds and the archaeological interpretations of the finds, is developed: - The original palisade itself is marked by horizontal tiles and vertical poles, and visualisations of the finds and the assumed shapes are sandblasted into the tiles as well. - The finds of the world’s largest stone ship are likewise formed by tiles; here

standing tiles mark a find in the ground below, whereas flat laying tiles mark the assumed shape of the ship, thus further new findings can be represented simply by changing the horizontal tile above into standing position. - The original, sporadic discoveries of the houses as well as the assumed shapes are both visualised through a sandblasted technique in the flat laying tiles. All elements are used in order to communicate and present the archaeological findings in a coherent manner that speaks to a modern visitor, and to manifest a virtual separation between the inside and outside of the historical site. “We use the materials to tell a story,” says Kristine Jensen, “and we use landscape architecture to reconnect with history.” Positive impact on the local area The monument area in Jelling is a real part of the everyday life of the town’s inhabitants, and it is currently set behind the town and close to the main street. With the new development plan, the monuments will be part of a more tranquil and open area that will seamlessly connect the cultural heritage of the monuments with the modern town centre. Traffic will be moved away from the monuments, creating a big green area and a more beautiful context for the cultural heritage to flourish in. “It will have a great impact on the town and its people as well as making an impression on visitors who are interested in the Viking Age,” says Jensen.

Above: South east corner - by the lake

Palisade gate on the north side

The new monument area is due to be finished in 2013, but you can already visit the site now and learn more about its history at the Royal Jelling visitor’s centre.

For more information, please visit: www.kristinejensen.dk View of house and boat-shaped stone setting

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 57

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Harbour redevelopment plan for Augustenborg, Denmark

Sensing the spirit of the space Copenhagen-based architecture and design office DEVE was established by Helle Degn and Morten Vedelsbøl in 2007. Previously, the duo had garnered experience taking part in architectural competitions for bigger companies in Denmark, so when the time was right, and with some recent winning entries under their belt, the idea for their own company was born. Today, DEVE, functioning as both an office and exhibition space, works on design at every scale and creates unique, context-sensitive solutions.

Design at every scale

“We work on building design on different scales, and our staff are able to adapt and work in different ways depending on the commission’s size. From a 120-squaremetre summer house to a 20,000-squaremetre psychiatric hospital, there is a big change in scale in our projects – and all this within building design,” explains Vedelsbøl.

While they started off with large competitions, winning a harbour redevelopment plan for Augustenborg, Denmark, in the European 10 competition, DEVE has since expanded their portfolio to include a number of smaller commissions as well. The office maintains a strong interest in winning commissions through competition,

As DEVE is still a relatively young office, the first built projects have only been completed within the last year. Those include a summer house in Gotland, Sweden, and a common house in Copenhagen, which works like a glass pavilion for a community of apartments.

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: DEVE

Degn and Vedelsbøl started DEVE on their own, and it has grown to become an office of seven architects and designers. It originally began as a symbiosis between an architectural office and an exhibition space specializing in architectonic artwork, but in 2011, DEVE became three distinct branches: DEVE Architecture ApS, DEVE Design ApS & DEVE Gallery Aps. Vedelsbøl spends part of his time teaching at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, and with half of the office used for the ex-

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but does not specialize in any specific type of architecture, aspiring to build, first and foremost.

hibition space, the architects have constant sources of inspiration.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Gärdet student housing project in Stockholm

The construction of the large psychiatric hospital in Aabenraa, Denmark, will be started next year. DEVE was granted the project after winning first-prize in a competition, in which they collaborated with White architects. While they wanted to create a unique identity for the new hospital department, DEVE and White had to make sure it would fit in with the existing hospital buildings and surrounding landscape. Reviving a more classical approach “While it might sound slightly clichéd, but as we teach at the academy as well, every project is unique due to the site, programme and client you are working with. Combining these three things and never approaching two projects the same way, creates the uniqueness which we address,” says Vedelsbøl.

A summer house in Gotland, Sweden

try to be in touch with the feeling of the space, using a more classical approach. We try to sense the soul of the things we’re working with and figure out how to create a feeling within the space. These are the values we put into the architecture.”

several projects in this region and even more on the drawing table. One of these is the Gärdet student housing project in Stockholm, which will be an interesting hub for students, combining both study and sports opportunities.

While a flexible approach can offer buildings longevity, what DEVE doesn’t believe in is creating spaces that are too anonymous or democratic in the way that they lose any sense of identity. “I think there is a big danger there, if you use the flexible space idea the wrong way, not understanding its full potential. It should never be an excuse not to relate to the people using the building now,” Vedelsbøl adds. “Some of the best buildings and frames are created when you really take care of the client and follow the programme.”

Working locally gives DEVE the opportunity to work efficiently on projects beyond the Danish borders, including the UK.

For more information, please visit: www.deve.dk

DEVE Copenhagen (Main office) Dronningengade 49, 1420 Copenhagen +45 35 13 00 35 deve@deve.dk

“In Copenhagen and Denmark, a wave of young architects, who started around the same time us as, have chosen a more mathematical way of working, whereas we

Expanding across borders DEVE recently expanded to Sweden, opening a new Stockholm branch parallel to their Copenhagen office. They have had

DEVE Stockholm Gyllenborgsgatan 6, 11243 Stockholm

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Proposal for Novozymes HQ, Copenhagen

A user-driven approach to architecture Established in 2006, SITE AS is a Copenhagen-based architecture office which deals exclusively with commercial buildings. With a specialised focus on office buildings, SITE works closely with the core values of each individual project and client company, supporting the specific corporate brand and the working behaviour of the employees in the best possible way. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: SITE AS

Working according to the belief that “form follows function”, SITE adapts their buildings according to their clients’ needs, and designs spaces that are efficient, dynamic and great to work in. “The bottom line is that we need to understand the client and the business they are in,” explains CEO and partner Jette Lind Johansen. “We are interested in office buildings and workplace design specifically, as people spend an average of 20% of their life at

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work. In our booming digital age, the way of working is changing as well, offering us further challenges.” Tailored solutions and core values When working on offices, SITE is basically combining the overall corporate brand with the space and office design, while sticking to the core values within the given projects. “It gives us a kick to work according to different kinds of values, and

we’ve worked on some very interesting projects,” says Johansen. One of these projects is the new laboratory and office space for Novozymes, a biotech company with headquarters in Denmark. As Novozymes is also a longterm client of SITE, the architects were already familiar with and understood the company’s needs. For this project, they needed to create a modern framework for the knowledge sharing taking place in the office. “We needed to find a way of having areas for both silence and knowledge sharing,” says Johansen. With legal requirements coming into play as well, SITE solved the task by creating a classified office/laboratory with efficient use of space, a soundproof room at the centre of the

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

building, transparent solutions, and a neutral common area where colleagues would be able to interact. And all the design was done while following the brand strategy. Another tailored project is the new headquarters for Horten Law Firm. It all started as site research, and SITE followed the whole process from beginning until end, from finding the site, through drawing the contract, organising the building process, creating a programme, working on space management, and all the way to the interior workspace and design – they even designed special furniture for them.

Above: New HQ for Horten Law Firm, Copenhagen

Focus on specialised skills

continuing business from previous clients. “When we get a client, we normally keep them,” says Johansen. “Some clients contact us through recommendations and networks, and in the end, we of course do some competitions. Our work with Novozymes actually started with a competition for creating their new headquarters in the north of Copenhagen.”

As SITE has chosen to focus on a very specific set of skills, rather than the entire architectural spectrum, their experience within commercial buildings really speaks for itself. From workplace design to branding, energy optimisation and userdriven innovation, SITE tackles all topics with confidence. This has also resulted in

The SITE architects are also familiar with every aspect of a project’s complete process, from concept to construction. “Knowing how you build in the end helps you advice clients in the first place,” explains Johansen. “And when the client is finally living and working in the space, you

SITE is also currently working with Aller Media, a large publishing company based in Demark. They have been advising Aller in connection with their new headquarters in Copenhagen, and they are also following them to Norway to work on a new and modern office building in Oslo.

will also see how efficient the building actually is, and it’s not just about efficiency by the square metre; it’s about how people work in the space and how flexible it actually is.” Accordingly, in addition to providing shelter from the rain, the buildings can actually contribute towards improving people’s everyday lives as well as the productivity of the company in question – creating socially interactive spaces.

For more information, please visit: www.siteas.dk

Top left: New HQ for Aller Media, Copenhagen. Below: Space Management strategy, Novozymes HQ, Copenhagen. Right: Proposal for Novozymes HQ, Copenhagen.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 61

Koldinghus Castle restoration

Restoration of a church in the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Visby

Existing plus New architecture: Adding value to cultural heritage With over 50 years of experience specialising in restoration projects and developing new buildings in historical contexts, E+N Arkitektur, formerly known as Exners Tegnestue, encourages a constant dialogue between old and new. Projects where the architects can experiment with new methods and ways to use cultural heritage buildings form the backbone of the office, but as a natural extension of this they are also able to successfully reinterpret historical solutions in new buildings. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: E+N Arkitektur

E+N Arkitektur works on an even amount of both existing and new buildings, and their field of expertise is divided into restoration, renovation and addition to

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listed buildings, adapting new buildings to historical environments, inner city development in cultural heritage areas, cultural buildings and churches, as well as design.

The restoration of Koldinghus Castle is one of their most significant and wellknown projects to date, carried out under the direction of Inger and Johannes Exner between 1972-1994. It is also an excellent example of how a well-developed strategy and concept with some unconventional solutions can create a successful result that adds value to cultural heritage. The unique context of each project E+N Arkitekturâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most recent projects, which also afford a good insight into the va-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

riety of their commissions, include the restoration of a church in the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Visby, the conversion of the stables and barn by Hindsgavl Slot into a hotel and conference centre, and the international projects in Maastricht and Antwerp, where they have been working with inner city development and town planning, as well as shopping arcades. For the project in Visby, the office made subtle additions to the St Nikolai church ruin, making it possible for cultural events and concerts to be held there. The project was also shortlisted in the Structural Awards for its bold solutions.

and of which we know what they will look like after 200 years,” says Back. In general, Back notes, there seems to be a tendency in Denmark and Europe for people to want to make use of cultural heritage buildings; history really means something to them. “The combination of the needs of modern clients and restoration of historic buildings is something Danes really appreciate,” says Back.

For more information, please visit: www.eplusn.dk

Facts The office was originally established in 1958 by professor in restoration Johannes Exner and his wife Inger Exner (using the name Exners Tegnestue A/S), while today it is owned and managed by architects Finn Larsen, Eva Holdgaard Jensen, Kjeld Kjeldgaard Ghozati and Jesper Back under a new name, which was introduced in 2011. E+N Arkitektur stands for Existing plus New architecture and describes what the office actually does, and while the name is new, the values remain exactly the same.

The red thread that connects all these projects is the importance of context. “The context is always significant in terms of the inside of the building, whether it’s historical or new and where it’s positioned,” explains Jesper Back. “We do a very thorough analysis of the site and the context the building is supposed to work in. While all architects talk about these things, it’s particularly important when it comes to old buildings. It’s a big thing to transform or add to them as it changes a lot of things. We need to understand the building’s function so as not to destroy any of its values.” Pushing boundaries while respecting cultural heritage Due to E+N Arkitektur’s extensive experience, the architects have a special way of approaching historical buildings. They have often worked on projects others consider impossible at first glance and designed exciting solutions for them. Also, due to the tension between new and old that they continuously work around, they are able to push the boundaries, push the buildings a little bit into the future, while keeping cultural values intact. “We have to acknowledge time in all of this, as human life is short compared to the life of a building. We know that they’ll in most cases still be there in a 100 years’ time. Accordingly, we have to avoid changing things too harshly; historic buildings should retain the same ability to survive over time, they’ve had before. We also choose materials that fit into the context

Above: Restoration and construction project in Antwerp. Below: Construction of Entre Deux Shopping Arcade in central Maastricht.

Conversion of the stables and barn by Hindsgavl Slot into a hotel and conference centre.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 63

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Above left: The Uppsala Éntre housing project. Right: Henriksholm housing project

Architectural solutions through contextual innovation In architecture, when one separates context from innovation, or vice versa, the feeling for space or the need for unique expression is lost. Combining the two aspects, however, affords architects with a sensitive feel for sites and all the possibilities that lie hidden. This is a combination and a way of working that Svendborg Architects believes in. By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Svendborg Architects

With 10 years of experience from some of the biggest architecture firms in Demark under his belt, Johnny Svendborg established Svendborg Architects in 2007. Before starting the office, he had worked on a lot of cultural buildings such as libraries and schools. The first project that Svendborg Architects won through a competition, however, was a master plan for residential housing, shops and a new park in Uppsala, Sweden. Below left and middle: Studio Posehuset. Right: Johnny Svendborg

The Uppsala Éntre housing project will be finished next year and includes some very innovative solutions. “There is a nice public park set behind the site we’re working on, but instead of blocking the lovely views, the park will continue on top of the new shops,” explains Svendborg. “So when you pass by, instead of the back of a large building, you will see a sloping public park with the houses on top of that. It’s important to give something back to the public, and not just the client and user, but the passers-by as well.”

One of Svendborg’s favourite projects so far has been the Studio Posehuset, which is an old barn that was transformed into an artist’s studio for a Danish actor. “I like the artist’s studio a lot as it deals with daylight in a great way. It also represents a fine balance of blending the old building with the new elements. It’s contextual, modern and quite interesting,” says Svendborg. While both projects are very distinct, they both show an acute awareness of context and client needs, which is where the solution always lies for Svendborg Architects. The architects are also interested in creating shapes and using light for both visual and energy-saving rewards. Looking a bit further ahead, Svendborg Architects’ future holds some very interesting collaborations with international architects, which is something they are keen on, having previously worked on a competition entry for a new cultural house in Frederiksberg with Japanese architects junya.ishigami+associates. The office has also just won the first prize for a large housing scheme in the north of Copenhagen called Henriksholm, which will consist of 44,000 square metres of new housing on a sloping idyllic terrain.

For more information, please visit: www.svendborgarchitects.dk

64 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Architecture in Denmark

Left: Suggested apartment building project, Rønne. Right: Exterior and interior of the Bright House, a modern family house of high architectural and material quality with the lowest possible impact on the climate.

Building a bright green island With their strong tradition and focus on sustainable architecture, STEENBERGs tegnestue contributes to the project ‘Bornholm - Bright Green Island 2014’, which envisions Bornholm as an attractive green island based on 100% sustainable energy. By Rikke Oberlin Flarup | Photos: STEENBERGs tegnestue

Since its founding in 1976, the architecture studio STEENBERGs tegnestue has built a network of faithful clients and a strong local knowledge of the island Bornholm, where the company is based. They have done this by always focusing on quality and aesthetics, as well as functional and sustainable architecture. “By virtue of good service and advice we provide our customers with excellent products and positive experiences,” says partner and manager Mogens Ipsen. Bright House As the focus on reducing energy consumption in new buildings has increased, STEENBERGs tegnestue has developed a standard house of the passive type. Bright House, as it is called, is a modern family house of high architectural and material quality with the lowest possible impact on the climate.

By combining the use of passive solar heating, geothermal heating and a heat pump system with increased insulation and energy windows, the heat consumption becomes significantly reduced. This way anyone living in a Bright House will experience great savings on heating bills, a healthier indoor climate and the satisfaction of contributing significantly to reducing CO2 emissions. Bright House has the potential for becoming completely self-sufficient and thereby CO2 neutral by further use of renewable energy; for example by integrating solar cells and solar panels on the roof.

in relation to CO2 reduction it is of high importance to take energy saving measures in connection with conversions and renovations. STEENBEERGs tegnestue creates various demonstration projects in order to pave the way for homeowners and the construction industry. One such project is a 19th century townhouse in Nexø, Bornholm, in the part of town declared worthy of preservation. The goal was to renovate the house for energy savings, turning it into a low energy class 1 house. An ambitious project that nevertheless managed to make the house reach the passive house standard for a renovated building without compromising on architecture. You can visit the studio and hear more about the company and their projects via the network Energy Tours, which can be contacted on +4556957300 or info@bornholm.biz for further information.

Renovations Renovations and conversions represent 98% of all construction activity in Denmark. If the country is to achieve its goal

For more information, please visit: www.steenberg.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 65

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

French food and beautiful surroundings at Skagen’s best hotel A unique location, peaceful atmosphere and outstanding French cuisine are just some of the reasons guests keep coming back to Ruths Hotel in Gammel Skagen. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Ruths Hotel

Founded in 1904, Ruths Hotel has been through a couple of owners and transformations. Today, it is the only hotel located by the North Sea which serves high quality French gourmet food, explains director Peter Christian Jensen. “One of the extraordinary things about our hotel is that it is an authentic French experience in Gammel Skagen. The French ambience permeates the entire hotel because our gastronomic chef is the internationally recognised Michel Michaud, who is uncompromising with regard to quality and taste. This combined with our unique location amidst the rugged nature of the

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North Sea coastline makes us stand out – there is nothing like us in Skagen, in all of Jutland actually.” The hotel’s location in the middle of the charming Gammel Skagen provides visitors with a unique view of the town’s characteristic yellow houses with red tile roofs, as well as the rugged coastline’s sand dunes. A taste of France Superbly ruled by the French master chef Michel Michaud, Ruths Hotel’s gourmet restaurant and brassiere both serve authentic French food based on typical

French ingredients such as foie gras, mussels, poultry and, of course, Bretagne oysters. The hotel’s uncompromising stance on food and unswerving dedication to French cuisine have attracted food connoisseurs from all over the area. “We have a lot of dinner and lunch guests from all over, also during wintertime. And we also have a French bakery selling croissants and stuff like that,” explains Jensen. “Besides we don’t serve any wine that is not French. It might seem a bit fussy, but it just makes sense because Michel’s food is really light and elegant and a too powerful wine can really ruin that. When you get to know him and his cuisine, you completely understand his stand.” Michaud is known to be one of the country’s best French gourmet chefs who

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

specifically addresses the most spoiled taste buds in Denmark. His work has even earned him the Ridder af Dannebrog order, which is awarded by the Danish Queen to people of special merit. Beautiful nature and charming settings The history of Ruths Hotel goes back to the beginning of the last century when local couple Emma and Hans Christian Ruth founded it under the name Badepensionatet Vesterhus. At the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, the special light, presumably created by the two oceans meeting, and the, back then, simple life of the village’s fishermen attracted some of Denmark’s most famous painters to the area and that was the beginning of Skagen’s popularity as an exclusive, bohemian holiday destination. Many of the artists’ works can be seen at Skagen’s Museum, portraying what the town, the countryside, and the residents, especially the fishermen, looked like in the past. Today, many visitors at Ruths hotel, which in 1974 was named after its first owners, come for the same reasons as the first visitors: to be inspired, relax and absorb the best of life. “A lot of our guests are regulars and when they come here, they

come to relax, read in the fireplace lounge or go for walks and bicycle rides. Just because we are a comfortable hotel with good food does not mean you just sit down and eat and drink all the time,” stresses Jensen. One of the most popular attractions of the area is the sand tongue which stretches out from Skagen. It is the only place in Denmark where you can stand with your feet in two different oceans, the North Sea and the Kattegat, and boasts an array of wildlife such as birds and seals. But undisputedly the greatest attraction is, says Jensen, Skagen’s unique atmosphere: “To me it is very life-affirming to observe how many of our guests walk around lovingly hand in hand; it does not have anything to do with age, it is just

about being away from the stress of life and enjoying each other.” Ruths Hotel is open all year round with special packages for Christmas and New Year, which are very popular with couples looking for a quiet evening with good food and a relaxed ambiance.

Ruths Hotel’s gourmet restaurant is open: 1 June to 31 September: Thursday to Sunday. Rest of the year: Saturdays The brassiere is open every day, all year round.

For more information, please visit: www.ruths-hotel.dk

Left: Superbly ruled by the French master chef Michel Michaud (middle), Ruths Hotel’s gourmet restaurant and brassiere both serve authentic French food. Right: The hotel’s location in the middle of the charming Gammel Skagen provides visitors with a unique view of the town’s characteristic yellow houses with red tile roofs.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 67

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

Hotel of the Month, Norway

A secluded valley with something for everyone

road that slithers its way through the valley is popular amongst bikers as it makes for a fun and varied motorcycle ride.

Situated on the shores of the Espedalsvatnet lake and surrounded by mountains in the picturesque Espedalen valley in the heart of Oppland, the Strand Mountain Lodge is a great place to experience the beauty and serenity of Norwegian nature at its finest. With winter approaching, the green mountain slopes will be covered in a thick layer of snow, making this the perfect place to escape to, relax and recharge your batteries.

“At the moment, sites are being prepared for cabins to be built, giving the valley a breath of fresh air. A lot of new activities and other riches are being unwrapped and made available for visitors, so in essence it is a refurbishment of the entire valley – without ruining any of the nature of course,” says Austheim.

By Magnus Nygren Syversen | Photos: Strand Fjellstue

Go on a trip to ‘Hell’ and back

Run and managed by Stefan and Surina Austheim, the Strand Mountain Lodge can host 33 guests in 14 rooms, and offers miles upon miles of hiking trails and cross-country skiing tracks, great fishing opportunities in one of the many mountain lakes, ski and snowshoe rental, as well as a nice, hot outdoor tub for those cold winter nights. “We’re in the process of refurbishing and freshening up the rooms at the moment,

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a project that should be all done before the coming winter season,” says manager Stefan Austheim. The valley itself is rich in both history and tradition as it was home to the world’s largest nickel mining complex in the 19th century. The area also has one of Norway’s most dense moose populations, and you can still come across some of the old trapping pits used for hunting scattered across the valley. In addition, the winding

One unique opportunity for the more adventurous guests is to go on a trip to Hell and back. Just down the road from the lodge, you will find some of the wildest scenery Norwegian nature has to offer in a place called Helvete – which in English translates to simply: Hell. This is northern Europe’s largest group of natural potholes. Also known as giant’s cauldrons, the largest of these massive potholes in the mountainous landscape are as wide as 20 to 30 metres, and some are as much as 40 metres deep.

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

The summer months and early fall make up the popular season to go see these giant’s cauldrons as June through to September is when the potholes are usually open for tourists. However, the sight is just as spectacular in wintertime, and should you wish to see what it looks like when it is frozen over Austheim is more than happy to escort guests into Hell during the colder months of the year as well. “In the winter there are icicles as long as 20 to 25 metres down the sides of the potholes, and at night, we usually set up lights. This gives the place an almost bewitching feel to it,” says Austheim. Norway meets Thailand After a day of hiking, fishing or crosscountry skiing, guests can relax at the lodge and enjoy a nice dinner. Austheim’s wife Surina is queen in the kitchen and serves up a menu that stands in stark contrast to the archetypal Norwegian surroundings at the mountain lodge. Born and raised in Thailand, Surina cooks traditional Thai dishes based on recipes handed down to her by her mother. She also holds cooking courses for guests interested in learning how to cook Thai food themselves.

Strand Mountain Lodge and its surroundings offer miles upon miles of scenic hiking trails and cross-country skiing tracks.

is important for them to keep up the trend of using locally produced ingredients. They use fish caught in the lake and vegetables from farms in the valley.

“We do have traditional Norwegian meals as well, but 95% of our guests choose our Thai food,” says Austheim.

Another thing that has made Strand Mountain Lodge popular amongst guests is the couple’s policy on opening hours, or rather the fact that they do not have any.

The food at the mountain lodge has gained a good reputation, and the couple says it

“We live here, so it’s always open no matter what,” says Austheim, and adds that they

have also made a choice not to have any set times for meals. “We comply with our guests. After all, it is the guests who are on vacation, and not us. We can’t tell them that they have to eat their breakfast between 7 and 9 in the morning. If you want to sleep in, then by all means sleep in.”

For more information, please visit: www.strand-fjellstue.no

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 69

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

Let your senses feast on an astonishing environment just outside Stockholm Arriving at Görvälns slott (Görvälns castle manor house), there is no question that you have arrived at a designer boutique hotel near Stockholm city. Maria and Johan Eklund, the owners of the hotel, have themselves picked out every detail so that you can enjoy the relaxing environment, the beautiful rooms and the splendid cuisine and beverages. By Therese Wallin | Photos: Görvälns slott

These qualities are widely recognised by a satisfied clientele. The boutique hotel was awarded "The best Swedish meeting spot" prize in 2011, and the nominations have not stopped there. The hotel is now shortlisted for one of the most prestigious travel industry awards. World Travel Awards has nominated it in the prestigious category for "Sweden's Leading Boutique Hotel". Find inner peace as your senses flourish Prior to starting operations at Görvälns

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slott in 2008, the Eklunds focused their efforts on running Hufvudsta Gård, which is a conference facility. The facility was originally Maria's project, but when she met Johan they joined forces. However, they were keen to get their hands on a new project that would reflect their personalities. "We wanted to run a hotel where we could let our passions prosper. We love travelling, design, and enjoying good food with complementary beverages," says Johan Eklund.

Starting up a hotel business from scratch is itself a challenge, but the couple wanted to go beyond this and run a hotel that offered its guests more than a traditional weekend away. The boutique hotel's trendy yet soothing interior and exterior milieu allows guests to connect with their senses, and enjoy life. In this spirit, Maria and Johan Eklund have picked out every decoration detail for the 38 rooms so as to ensure that guests stay in rooms where they themselves would like to stay. Keys to success – no prior experience and plenty of passion Neither Johan nor Maria had any previous experience of starting up and running a hotel. They say that this is partly what has made Görvälns slott such a success with guests. "We wanted the hotel to embed

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

what we liked and what is beneficial for the body and mind," explains Johan Eklund. They even have their own carpenter, who has undertaken extensive work on items such as closets, which flatter the rooms with a rococo style. The staff who work alongside the Eklunds are just as passionate about the hotel as the owners are. Such is its beauty that it has attracted media attention. In the summer of 2011, the hit TV show Stjärnorna på slottet (Stars at the castle) was recorded at the castle, and it was broadcast in January of this year. Many viewers were astonished at the breathtakingly beautifully decorated hotel and its surroundings. A perfect place for life-loving guests The hotel is located on the outskirts of Stockholm and overlooks the picturesque lake Mälaren. Guests often take the opportunity to absorb the environment whilst dining on freshly prepared meals and bakery. All food and bakery is made by the hotel's own chef, Robert Hedman, whose culinary expertise and innovative approach took him to the final of the prestigious competition Årets Kock (Chef of the year). "Quality comes first," says Johan Eklund. "In order to make delicious food, you must work with the finest produce and this is our motto." Hedman's dishes can be complemented with a suitable

drink with the help of the hotel's outstanding sommelier Bengt Norrby. For Johan and Maria, the hotel is a passion that allows them to work with their joys in life. However, as a married couple with children, they are well aware of the need to keep a balance in life, and how important reliable and competent staff is. Thanks to their hard work and personal touch, the boutique hotel now breathes an atmosphere of calm and peace. Welcoming bedrooms, exquisitely comfortable beds and fine quilts give life to the Dalai Lama's wise words that "sleep is the best meditation."

everyday life. The establishment also caters for conference parties, who can find inspiration from the peaceful environment. "We are so close to Stockholm city, it is hard to believe that a place so peaceful can be within such short distance," says Johan Eklund. Indeed, the hotel's restaurant also receives guests who only wish to pop by and enjoy the excellent food in the priceless settings. One thing is for sure: once you visit Görväln, it will not be the last time, and you will return to the serene environment that allows you to reconnect with yourself and find inner peace.

A gem to be discovered The staff at Görväln work systematically to ensure that their guests can relax. A visit to Görväln will tease your palate and help you get away from the stresses of your

For more information, please visit: www.gorvalnsslott.se

The boutique hotel's trendy yet soothing interior and exterior milieu allows guests to connect with their senses. Maria and Johan Eklund have picked out every decoration detail for the 38 unique rooms.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 71

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

Hotel of the Month, Finland

A cosy and affordable stopover by the airport Whether you are heading on holiday, arriving for business or staying for a longer layover in Helsinki, BEST WESTERN Airport Hotel Pilotti, which is only a five-minute drive away from Helsinki-Vantaa airport, is the perfect choice for you.

You are also never far away from more entertainment and dining options, as shopping, spa facilities, beauty salons, bowling, golf simulators and several restaurants are available at the close-by shopping centre Jumbo and entertainment centre Flamingo. The actual capital city is not that far either, and you can catch a local bus straight from outside the hotel.

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: BEST WESTERN Airport Hotel Pilotti

The cosy hotel, which has been around since 1989, first as a private establishment, became a Best Western hotel in 2010. As part of the brand, the hotel is guaranteed to offer high-quality service and amenities – at affordable prices. With 112 rooms, including family rooms, and two conference spaces for between 20-40 people, BEST WESTERN Airport Hotel Pilotti offers modern amenities, from wireless Internet to satellite television, and several services to make your stay go as smoothly as possible. Heading to the airport for an early flight? Not a problem, the breakfast, which is free for all guests, is served from 4am onwards, and the hotel’s shuttle bus, also part of the room price, can take you to

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the airport between 4.15am-9am (Sundays until 10am) and runs from the airport between 5pm-2am. Another invaluable bonus is the free parking for hotel guests for up to two weeks. “While people appreciate both the friendly service and the great location, the ability for holiday travellers to leave their car with us for free adds to the convenience of it all,” says CEO Reijo Liesaho. And it really wouldn’t be a Finnish hotel without the essential sauna, which is open to all guests every evening. Before retreating to the sauna, you can take your pick from the Mediterranean-inspired à la carte menu at the hotel’s restaurant Volare.

While people might not stay for more than a few days at a time, the service and dedication is still there to make sure every customer has a satisfying stopover, whether before, after or in the middle of their holiday or business trip.

Reijo Liesaho, CEO, BEST WESTERN Airport Hotel Pilotti

For more information, please visit: www.hotellipilotti.fi

Attraction of the Month, Denmark

Teatermuseet i Hofteatret: The perfect setting for a Royal Affair Teatermuseet i Hofteatret (The Theatre Museum at the Court Theatre) is located on the Christiansborg riding ground, in central Copenhagen. Situated above the Royal Stables, it is part of Christiansborg Castle, a former royal residence which today accommodates the Danish Parliament. The building has housed a theatre for almost 250 years and has survived both of the great fires that consumed the castle itself. By Yane Christensen | Photos: Teatermuseet i Hofteatret

The collection at the Theatre Museum explores different aspects of Danish theatrical history - opera, pantomime, ballet and drama - from the seventeenth century to the present day. It includes drawings, engravings, paintings, photographs, costumes and assorted memorabilia from the museum's extensive archives.

amidst masquerades and intrigues. Throughout history, many rich and influential people have gossiped and schemed on these very premises. While the official theatre was the Royal Theatre, the Court Theatre was more like the equivalent to what would today be the king's private television lounge.

The theatre itself remains an integral part of the museum. The auditorium is a real gem with its sloping stage, elegant royal boxes and beautifully decorated oriental ceiling, evoking an atmosphere of theatrical splendour. Seat yourself in the plush red velvet upholstery and imagine the times when the king and his court would come to watch theatre performances

The museum is brimming with quirky corners and fascinating facts: during the reign of Christian VIII, he had a private 'throne' built directly below the stage, complete with a leather covered seat. Today, this remains as a humorous part of the exhibition. Also, the theatre is connected to the parliament building by a secret corridor.

The theatre has recently come into international prominence as the setting of the critically acclaimed film A Royal Affair. The film tells the story of the German physician Johan Friedrich Struensee who was the personal physician to King Christian VII in the 1770s. He began an affair with the queen, and in 1771, he was appointed cabinet minister; thus he possessed the highest office in the country and had real authority. However, following a masquerade at the Court Theatre, he was arrested and taken to the scaffold, where he was beheaded. His body was drawn and quartered and put on display as a deterrent to the public. The Theatre Museum at the Court Theatre is currently running an exhibition on this dramatic story called Struensee â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Fall.

For more information, please visit: www.teatermuseet.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 73

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Sweden

Left: Nortec Collective & Agua Caliente (Photo: Oskar Zander). Right: Party at the Södra Bar (Photo: Anna Huerta).

Attraction of the Month, Sweden

Södra Teatern - A cultural hothouse in Stockholm Treat yourself to an evening out of the ordinary with burlesque dancing, Australian comedy or simply a delicious meal with a view to die for. Södra Teatern has something for everyone and is upholding its position as a cultural hotspot with its varied programme throughout the autumn. By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Courtesy of Södra Teatern

Located in the bohemian Södermalm area in Stockholm, Södra Teatern offers a variety of different events, most notably concerts, but also theatre performances, dance shows, discussions and comedy. Today, the place is known as Sweden’s favourite international venue for music, theatre and debate. “It was, and continues to be, our vision to offer experiences and entertainment from all over the world,” senior producer Anders Ålander says.

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The venue enjoys a great reputation internationally as well as nationally and gives the stage to artists and other notable groups and individuals that you may not normally get to experience at your local venue. With The Gypsy Kings and Queens, Astrid Hadad, Naomi Klein and Jane Birkin among some of the previous attractions, it is obvious that there is something for everyone. This autumn you should not miss Catnapp, a new MC from

Argentina, or the talk with the famous philosopher Slavoj Žižek. A cultural hothouse The name Södra Teatern translates to the Southern Theatre, drawing on the building’s history as Stockholm’s oldest theatre. However, today the name no longer covers the full range of activities that take place in the building. The renowned travel guide Lonely Planet refers to it as a cultural hothouse, mentioning Muslim standup comedy, gypsy wedding tunes and monthly exotica club nights, while the website World’s Best Bars celebrates the electric atmosphere of its bars. “Our strength is the width of our programme. There is something for everyone, whether

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Sweden

you are interested in music, theatre or specific philosophical debates,” Ålander notes. The building – an experience in itself The building has maintained its magnificent appearance, and visitors are brought back in time when they enter into the venue that holds seven stages, two restaurants and five bars. Chandeliers, red velvet and high ceilings characterise the interior, and the fantastic view over the whole city is truly the icing on the cake. “Södra Teatern is something out of the ordinary, and we aim to give our visitors a whole experience, with an astonishing building and view, great food and obviously top-notch international entertainment,” Ålander says.

Left: Terassen (Photo: Anna Huerta); Right: The Main Stage (Photo: Sune Sundahl).

varied entertainment with an intellectual touch.

An exciting programme ahead In the months ahead, the International Stockholm Burlesque Festival takes place at the theatre, while names like Miss Li, Bombino, the famous singer and guitarist from Niger, and Australian comedian Pam Ann will be present. Other noteworthy acts to look for are the American cult band Sparks and world-known The Soundtrack of Our Lives. The list goes on with numerous entertaining and interesting acts as Södra Teatern continues to ensure its reputation as a venue of high quality and

French cuisine with a twist of Swedish traditions The artistic work is not limited to the stage, but is extended to the two in-house restaurants, Etablissemanget and Södra Bar. On the menu, you will find French classics with a Swedish twist. The all-time favourite is the ox cheek braised in red wine with Västerbottensost, cheese flavoured potato puree, while lighter options include savoury chili and tomato steak tartare, and a twist on the classic

gravad lax, with a creamy coffee flavoured dill and mustard sauce, Jerusalem artichoke puree and whitefish roe. “Some people come here simply to enjoy the food and drinks, while others come for a full evening of entertainment and dinner,” managing director of the restaurants and bars Jesper Henryson says. During the weekends, they host jazz brunches at Etablissemanget which have proved very popular, and somewhere between 200 and 300 people come along each day. “It is a really nice event, and I would recommend people to come by during the weekend to experience it,” Henryson says. The best view of Stockholm The bars are summer favourites among locals as well as tourists as they provide some of the best views of Stockholm. Outdoor bar Terrassen is a popular place to be during warm months, and alongside chilling drinks, you can enjoy a number of live concerts. Similarly, the bar Sjuan houses a balcony which is said to be the highest situated public terrace in Stockholm. Situated on the sixth floor, it may not be the place for anyone with a fear of heights, but it will certainly give you the most breathtaking view of the city’s skyline.

Above left: HKC hussies, Södra Teatern’s burlesque troupe. Top right: Enjoy the breathtaking views from the balcony (Photo: Helene Lundgren). Below: Fried char is one of the classical dishes served in the restaurant (Photo: Anna Huerta).

For more information, please visit: www.sodrateatern.com

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 75

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Finland

The Icebreaker Sampo is the only passenger icebreaker in the world. In the middle of a four-hour cruise with Sampo, the icebreaker stops to allow passengers to come down off the ship and on to the ice, to walk around or to try some ice swimming.

Attraction of the Month, Finland

The city of snow Kemi, a seaport town near the Arctic Circle, offers fascinating possibilities for experiencing the real Arctic. One of Finland’s most popular winter destinations, Kemi welcomes you to explore the quiet, shoreless field of ice and the breathtaking views of the Arctic winter. By Inna Allen | Photos: Courtesy of Visit Kemi

White snow, soft blue sky, bright sunshine and dark evenings, with stars twinkling brightly and the northern lights blazing in the sky – the Lappish winter can really create magical moments. Boasting a vast choice of Arctic activities, Kemi is a real winter enthusiast’s paradise. Icy yet heart-warming adventure aboard an icebreaker In early November, the Gulf of Bothnia gradually begins to freeze, and the ice season lasts until May. Seafaring at these

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latitudes would be impossible for months on end if it wasn’t for icebreakers. Breaking the sturdy, over a metre thick ice with their specialized equipment, icebreakers are vital to keeping the routes open. One of Kemi’s true highlights is the Icebreaker Sampo – the only passenger icebreaker in the world. For the past 25 years, it has provided exotic experiences for over two hundred thousand people from all over the world. The four-hour cruise lets you experience the immense

Arctic sea from a different perspective. Real adventure seekers board the majestic icebreaker directly from the frozen sea by snowmobiles. “We want to provide our guests with the best impression of our winter town Kemi,” says Marie Rosenlöcher, sales manager of the local safari company Lapponia Safaris. “The combination of a snowmobile safari and an icebreaker cruise works perfectly.” During the cruise, passengers gain a good understanding of how the icebreaker is built and how it works. You can brave the weather and watch the crashing of the ice from the deck of the ship, or wine and dine inside in the warm and comfortable interior. The atmospheric restaurant and bars, which have full service throughout the entire length of the cruise, ensure

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Finland

comfortable travel. In the middle of the endless field of ice, Sampo stops to allow passengers to come down off the ship and on to the ice, to walk around and admire the vast, spacious scenery. And for a truly unique experience, visitors can try ice swimming - sliding into the ice cold “pool” from the edge of the ice in a special thermally insulated suit. Icebreaker Sampo’s cruise season expands from the middle of December to the middle of April. It can take 150 passengers on board. The wonder of snow Although snow is a very common aspect for Finns, to the majority of children and adults in the world, it is a strange, unknown and fascinating element. This prompted the birth of the city’s extraordinary project, the SnowCastle of Kemi. The first ever SnowCastle was built in 1996 as a gift from UNICEF together with the City of Kemi to all the children in the world, and with its 1,100-metre-long snow walls, it made it straight into the Guinness Book

of Records. Since then, the concept has grown to include a SnowHotel, a SnowRestaurant, a SnowChapel and a Children’s World within the white snowy walls. Every winter, the vast and impressive snow structure rises to grace the city centre. In December, as soon as the weather is appropriate, at least -7°Celsius, the making of the snow begins. As natural snow is too soft, the SnowCastle is constructed using piped seawater snow, which keeps its consistency better in the varying winter weather conditions. The vast area takes around 21,000 m³ of snow, the equivalent of 2,100 lorry-truck-loads. “People are often stunned by the sheer size of the buildings,” says Marika Tomminen, sales and marketing manager of Kemi Tourism Ltd. “It may be hard to believe, but there are no support systems in any of the constructions of the SnowCastle – everything is made of pure snow!” The SnowCastle of Kemi attracts around 80,000 to 100,000 people each winter. Approximately 1,000 guests stay overnight

in the SnowHotel, a few thousand enjoy dining at the SnowRestaurant and some twenty happy couples get married in the SnowChapel – and all this in less than three months! The life of the castle, including the construction process which takes around five weeks, can be viewed online through a webcam but nothing beats seeing it up close and personal. This year will see the 18th SnowCastle, which opens at the end of January and lasts to the beginning of April. Organising various tourist adventures in the area, Lapponia Safaris can take you on snowmobile rides and husky dog safaris, or introduce you to ice-fishing and reindeer husbandry. Kemi is full of little miracles waiting to be discovered! For more information, please visit:

For more information, please visit: www.visitkemi.fi and www.lapponiasafaris.com

Top row: Organising various tourist adventures in the area, Lapponia Safaris can take you on snowmobile rides and husky dog safaris, or introduce you to ice-fishing and reindeer husbandry. Photos: Lapponia Safaris. Below: Every winter, the SnowCastle of Kemi rises to grace the city centre. The concept also includes a SnowHotel, a SnowRestaurant, a SnowChapel and a Children’sWorld.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 77

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Vinterlysfestivalen offers an experience you could not have imagined and lasts for seven magical days. Photo: Haakon Hoseth

Attraction of the Month, Norway

A festival of light with world-class performances Vinterlysfestivalen (the winter light festival) is a charming cultural event that rekindles people's lives during the dark months of Norway's winter. Year after year, the show's popularity continues to attract more and more visitors, with many returning to enjoy top performances while others are attracted by the generous and convivial environment that has made the theatre festival one of the year's highlights. By Therese Wallin | Photos: Courtesy of Vinterlysfestivalen

Nordland Teater (Nordland theatre) is the organiser behind this event that is constantly growing in popularity. The former manager of Nordland Theater, Thor-Inge Gullvåg, has noted that the festival is one of those events that you may not initially have known was essential for you, but once you experience it, you will become a yearly visitor.

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Wenche Bakken is responsible for putting all the pieces of the puzzle together. Notwithstanding it being part of her job, Bakken sees the theatre festival as a source of light during the dark winter months. “Up in the north we need something to look forward to when the cold and the dark strikes, something that brings light into our lives,” she says. “For me the

seven days of the festival are tantamount to seven wonders.” A festival of light that brings performances and memories for life Festivals are traditionally considered to be targeted at a certain age group, but this is not the case with Vinterlysfestivalen. Nordland theatre always ensures that there is something in the programme that will match your preference regardless of age or taste in music and theatre. “We have a very broad programme. There is something for everyone, so families with children as well as teenagers and adults will all find something that is interesting for them,” explains Bakken.

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Vinterlysfestivalen lets visitors enjoy the performances in a magical setting. There is no greater testament of its audience's appreciation than the fact that it has successfully been running for more than ten years. The festival does not only have Nordland theatre at its disposal, but also makes use of the surrounding environment. Nearby facilities and surroundings are transformed into stages where performances from rap and monologues to classic music and acting take place.

Seven unforgettable days The festival lasts for seven days, and on the opening day there are always special activities, such as fireworks and facial paint to celebrate the festivities. Many of the daytime activities are set at rather early hours, so that families with children can attend and enjoy this cultural experience. As the day turns into night, the performances often become targeted to a more adult audience. The diversity of performances throughout the day and the evening allows and encourages people to see and hear new pieces. “The opportunity to see different acts often make people a bit brave,” says

Photo: Haakon Hoseth

“The broad scope of the programme often allows people who are not from the theatre world to get further acquainted with professional performances through Nordland theatre. For many people who did not like their first visit to the theatre or who are under the impression that there is only one form of stage performance at theatres, Vinterlysfestivalen is often a turning point,” says Bakken.

“The broad scope of the programme often allows people who are not from the theatre world to get further acquainted with professional performances through Nordland theatre,” says Wenche Bakken. Photos: Bjørn Leirvik

Bakken. “Because all performances take place close to one another, visitors dare to try something that for them is out of the ordinary and which they would otherwise overlook.” Knowing the joy that the arts can bring to people's lives, Nordland theatre pushes the traditional boundaries of the cultural festival beyond the premises specially organised for the purpose of the show, and takes the wonderful performances of Vinterlysfestivalen to those who may not be able to attend it. “We also make an effort to bring the happiness that follows with

Vinterlysfestivalen to those who may not be able to come to the events,” says Bakken as she explains that they visit retirement homes, amongst other places. Vinterlysfestivalen does not only bring light and joy to its visitors, it also offers one of the main social events of the year, allowing locals as well as outsiders to come together and make new acquaintances. As one of the biggest theatre festivals, it plays a fundamental role in offering a platform for cultural exchange. For all of these reasons, visitors continue to flock to the festival each year as its popularity continues to spark national as well as international interest. Vinterlysfestivalen is an opportunity for you to enjoy theatre in a new way, and to indulge in the joy of a multitude of skilled performances that for seven wonderful days offer you a warm and welcoming sanctuary away from the darkness and coldness of the winter.

Left: Festival organiser Wenche Bakken. Photo: Haakon Hoseth. Right: Fireworks on the opening night. Photo: Bjørn Leirvik.

For more information, please visit: www.nordlandteater.no

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 79

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

Australia meets Copenhagen With crocodile and kangaroo on the menu, spiced with aboriginal specialities How do you like your crocodile? Or maybe you prefer kangaroo? Or emu? You can have any of these unique dishes, and more of the same unusual nature, at the Reef N’Beef restaurant in Copenhagen. As the first all-Australian restaurant in Europe, Reef N’Beef serves a variety of Australian fusion dishes based on the restaurant’s own import of local Australian ingredients. By Margrete Dybbroe | Photos: Reef N’ Beef

Reef N’Beef was established in 1991 by two French-Australian brothers. And already things are not what one expects them to be, because French? Australian? And in Denmark? Well, one of the brothers had travelled a great deal in Australia and was fascinated by the unique diversity of the country: its history, culture and population; the abundance of natural resources, the outback country and the climatic extremes from north to south and

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east to west. And indeed, Australian fusion cuisine is as much a result of cross-continental influences as is the country itself. Twenty years of constant growth The Reef N’Beef started as a rather small place with only a few tables, but not for long. It was the first of its kind and so unlike any other restaurant that it quickly caught the public eye. So, in 2004, the Reef N’Beef moved to the larger and very

central location it maintains today, very close to Rådhuspladsen and City Hall. The restaurant has room for 160 guests and is one of the most popular fusion restaurants in Copenhagen today, and as an additional service it offers out-of-house catering for special events around the country. The wild touch The menu follows two main lines: one is the so-called ‘wild touch’, the other is steaks. The wild touch is made with a variety of uniquely Australian ingredients such as crocodile, kangaroo, emu, and reptiles, with a wide range of special nuts, herbs, mushrooms, fruits, flowers and spices – also known as bush food, as they grow only in Australia. The Quandong, for

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

example, is a desert fruit which is highly valued by the aboriginals and a very central ingredient at Reef N’Beef. So is the Kutjera, a bush tomato – also called the desert raisin, and the Tanami apples that are named after the desert, and the herbs lemon myrtle and Tasmanian mountain pepper – to mention just a few of the local rarities. They are all richly represented in the restaurant’s menu. Australian beef The steaks all come from Australian beef cattle – Black Angus and Longhorn crossbreeds or the rare and much-coveted Wagyu cattle. Wagyu is a Japanese breed that is reared under quite unusual circumstances: massaged with oil, fed with beer, some even entertained with classical music. The Japanese go to extreme measures to obtain the special Wagyu meat quality that is famous for its intense marbling – and by experts and gourmets considered to be the tastiest and most tender and succulent meat in the world. The Australian Wagyu Association is the largest breed association outside Japan, and the Reef N’Beef has a direct link to it.

castle as part of the event, and the land was given to Isabella as a gesture of respect and to mark that the princess is half Australian (her mother, Crown Princess Mary, comes from Tasmania). The gesture was much appreciated. When the film Australia with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman had its Danish gala premiere in Copenhagen, the Reef N’Beef played a role as well by feeding all 1,200 guests with Australian specialities. The event was attended by the crown princess, who is the protector of Red Barnet – the Danish division of the international charity foundation Save the Chil-

dren. The entire profit from the tickets sold went to the foundation, which received over a quarter of a million Danish kroner (app. 14,000 pound sterling). Welcome to Reef N’Beef The Reef N’Beef is open every day of the week from 4-11 p.m. The menu is intriguingly different, the food is great, the service is accommodating, and the surroundings are very pleasant. It is definitely a restaurant worth visiting. For more information, please visit: www.reefnbeef.dk

Direct Australian import The Reef N’Beef conduct their own importing from Australia and pay frequent visits to the many farmers and aboriginal societies that supply their products. The Australian imports account for about 85% of the food served in the restaurant, and all the bush food ingredients come directly from aboriginal producers as the restaurant favours both their culture and their land: their culture by buying directly from them, thus supporting aboriginal food traditions, and the land by cooperating closely with the AWC (Australian Wildlife Conservancy). Thus far the restaurant has paid the AWC for the preservation of two areas of land – predominantly financed by a three course Christmas dinner served in the restaurant a couple of years ago. Royal connections One of the protected areas was presented to the Danish Princess Isabella at her christening. The Reef N’Beef provided the food for the royal party at Fredensborg

Reef N’Beef's menu includes some rather intriguing specialities, from crocodile meat and emu to herbs and fruit from the Australian outback. Above left: Head chef Frederic Godgrand.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 81

Scan Magazine | Food | Stockholm Restaurant & Deli

A taste of Sweden in East Sheen A new Swedish restaurant has recently opened its doors in East Sheen, London; Stockholm Restaurant & Deli is a cosy little establishment, helmed by head chef Göran Landh and restaurant manager Majvor Darnton, that serves traditional Swedish food with a big dollop of Nordic charm. Scan Magazine visited the restaurant just in time for the “kräftskiva” (crayfish party) and snaps.

is worth the trouble; we definitely enjoyed ours and made an appropriate mess.

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: Stockholm Restaurant & Deli

Swedish culinary tradition is based on simplicity, letting the flavours speak for themselves and creating fresh food from pure ingredients. Whether foraged, harvested, hunted or fished, the food is straight from untouched nature, and all of Sweden’s provinces have their own regional variations to add to it. Stockholm Restaurant & Deli offers Londoners the chance to taste some of the best bits of Swedish cuisine and traditional home cooking made from regionally sourced produce. Landh, who began his career as a head chef in Africa and then moved on to purchase and run several

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restaurants and other culinary establishments in Sweden, now channels his experience and passion for fresh flavours into the unpretentious yet brilliantly tasty fare at Stockholm Restaurant & Deli. At the restaurant, you can choose from classics such as herring, gravlax, Toast Skagen, meatballs and mash (without forgetting the essential cream sauce and lingonberries), and when the season is right, crayfish, which are an intrinsic part of Swedish late summer when people are either throwing or attending crayfish parties. These tricky crustaceans take a bit of practice to crack into, but the meat inside

Stockholm Restaurant & Deli serves light lunches 11am – 3pm as well as dinner 7pm – 10pm on Tuesday-Saturday. The deli counter is open throughout the day, serving delicious ready-made dishes for takeaway.

For more information, please visit: www.stockholmdeli.co.uk

Scan Magazine | Columns | Humour

IS IT JUST ME...

By Mette Lisby

Who sometimes doubts the qualifications of “experts” that media outlets have come to rely so heavily on? In an article recently, “experts” happily announced the discovery of “10 things that excuse your husband” – what exactly my husband needed to be “excused for”, was left unclear. The article (from a women’s mag) seemed to build on the assumption that men per definition constantly do stuff that needs to be apologized for. On second thought, that concept did not seem unfamiliar to me. After 10 years of marriage, annoying habits do sneak in, on my husband’s part, so my curiosity was aroused. “The experts” behind this article had huge credentials. They had written several pieces on “how to treat your husband” – all with an underlying premise suggesting that we treat our husbands with the same overbearing sensibility normally reserved for pets. Thus, men need praise for everything they do.

I find it odd to treat your spouse like a hamster or puppy, praising him for not peeing on the carpet, sitting down or refraining from humping other people’s legs. It seems we’re just seconds away from regularly checking our husbands for worms. Now the “experts” explained the classic “husband-mistakes” like “not listening” or “forget what you’ve told him” (which sounds disturbingly similar – maybe he doesn’t listen if you say the same things eight times). The advice from the “experts”– if you think your husband tends to forget what you tell him – is to surprise him! “Experts” say it’s easier to remember things that surprise us! So my advice is, when you need your husband to remember to buy groceries, you simply jump from behind the curtain

PE (Physical Education)

By Maria Smedstad

One of the things that I struggled with after moving to England and starting school here was the multitude of rules and restrictions, many of which made no earthly sense to me. I’ve already written about my confusion with the British school uniform, but this was nothing until I attended

my first PE lesson and found out there was a uniform for this too! I pictured some sort of sporty getup, something airy and loose fitting, you know – something that you could actually do sports in. Imagine my surprise when a pre-used nylon shirt of the kind that never really washes clean was handed to me along with – what was worse – a skirt. A SKIRT! For SPORTS! I protested; how was I supposed to run around in this thing, worrying about the fact that my knickers would show every time I did anything even remotely vigorous? My teacher looked surprised and firmly explained that there would be no vigorous running about. This was a PE class for girls! It was netball! This cheered me up; I thought that perhaps netball was an English word for handball, which was a sport I quite enjoyed. Five minutes later I was standing on the netball court. About an hour later I was still standing in the same spot. It was all over. My skirt – as promised – had been in no danger of flap-

with a “Boooo!!! So NOW you think you’ll remember the yoghurt?” Or maybe lead with an innocent: “Hey, honey. I found all the porn on your computer. KIDDING! But remember to be back from golfing before the guests arrive tonight.” I’m no “expert” but I’m guessing this time he will be home in time for supper. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”.

ping up to expose my knickers, seeing as I hadn’t moved. At all. The next day I signed up for the only available option for those unable to join normal PE classes, which was a mild weightlifting and stretching class. I did so by not wearing my contact lenses, which rendered me virtually blind. It was worth it. Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. She writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 83

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Scan Business | Key Note | Mannaz

Scan Business Business Columns & News 85 | Business Features 86 | Conferences of the Month 88 | Business Calendar 91

Not difficult – just different? By Paul Blackhurst, Client Director, Mannaz

Think about your colleagues, customers and suppliers. There are some of them that make you smile when you picture their face. Relationships are good and communication flows easily. It is an absolute pleasure to join them for meetings, and, even when you disagree with them, you can see that their arguments make sense and are well presented. Then, there are the other ones, the ones where every meeting and discussion seems like hard work. They approach things so differently to you that it is almost as if they speak a different language. They focus too much on details, or too little. They make decisions based on pure logic or subjective emotion. They are simply too loud, or too quiet. They seem to need to plan everything to the smallest milestone, or leave everything too loose and change everything at the last minute. Which ones would you choose to spend time with, those who are easy to get along with or those that are difficult? Which ones would you invite into your “team” to help you think things over and to clarify your thoughts and plans? Well, surprisingly, you might do better to spend more time with the difficult ones.

The ones you get on easily with are probably carbon copies of you. They see things your way, which is nice to hear, but they bring no challenge or differing perspective, and they share your blind spot. For an effective team, or even for a one-off decision, the evidence is that we need a diversity of perspectives and then we need the maturity and skills to get beyond the conflict that the diversity naturally creates. Conflict, at least at the cognitive, intellectual level, is a positive energy, much more desirable than apathy. When punches are being thrown, literal or metaphorical, then conflict has gone too far and the benefits are lost. However, like the sand in the oyster that creates the pearl, cognitive conflict in the team can produce creative and well-rounded decisions as long as we respect differences and really listen to each other. Personality tools, such as the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, are really helpful in providing a vocabulary to discuss differences. So, the next time you are faced with that difficult person, take a more positive view. Maybe they are not being difficult. Perhaps they are just being different!

Paul Blackhurst, Client Director, Mannaz

For more information, please visit: www.mannaz.com or email pbl@mannaz.com

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 85

Scan Business | Feature | Kouvola

Kouvola – a bright base for business Located in southeast Finland, Kouvola has a strong industrial heritage. Boasting Finland’s largest train traffic hub, the city is just over one hour from Helsinki and two hours from St. Petersburg – making it an excellent link between the European Union and Russia. With international ports and an airport nearby, Kouvola provides a perfect nest for businesses both big and small. The excellent location along the main roads 6, 12 and 15 makes the city the leading dry harbour in the land, catering for the needs of major export harbours and offering a wealth of opportunities for logistics companies. With a trading, wholesale and customs centre for international logistics, there are several global companies with operations and extensive networks in the area. “The strong industrial tradition of the region is being renewed by fresh business. This is the time for new ideas and innovations,” says Aleksandra Airikainen, project manager of Kouvola Innovation Ltd., an economic development company owned by the City of Kouvola. “Renewable en-

ergy, environmental technology, wood construction and gaming cluster are among the success stories of the future. Our mission is to increase the vitality of the Kouvola region, providing all the necessary services for companies from under one roof.” A safe community in one of the world’s least corrupt countries, Kouvola provides a solid framework for companies. And surrounded by over 450 lakes, fantastic countryside, beautiful scenery, tourist attractions and shopping possibilities, there is also plenty for visitors to explore.

By Inna Allen | Photo: Kouvola Innovation Ltd

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Scan Business | Review | The Gold Mine Effect

The Gold Mine Effect: Crack the Secrets of High Performance Rasmus Ankersen, Icon Books, London, 2012. Rasmus Ankersen traveled to personally evaluate training regimes to discover the “secret” of high performance. Why is 70% of Kenya’s long distance Gold Medals won by athletes of the Kalenjin tribe? Why does a burnt track in Jamaica produce the best sprinters? South Korea: 35% of the top female golfers; Bekoji, Ethiopia: best middle distance runners; Russia: 25% of the women’s top 40 ranking; Brazil: phenomenal footballers. “The Secret is Not a Secret” High performance is not genetic: there are no African “running” genes, no South Korean “lady golfer” genes…

Reviewed by Mark Rogers The Jamaican coach, Stephen Francis insists “what you see is not what you get”: current performance doesn’t predict future performance, it may only show runners already at their limit. Mr Francis wants those determined to overcome obstacles; he won’t change his burnt track: it deters those who won’t train without all the comforts.

Applied Insight This is widely applicable: “as Capital One’s CEO, Richard Fairbank, put it ... ‘At most companies, people spend 2 per cent of their time recruiting and 75 per cent managing their recruiting mistakes.’”

It applies to schools, which regularly misjudge ability. Mr Ankersen’s most controversial insight is that not pushing your kids is irresponsible. Russian tennis and S. Korean golf parents are phenomenal pushers: advancing the kids requires that parents push themselves. This flies against contemporary pedagogies in which children must not be exposed to failure. Korean and Russian parents refute this: it just excuses underachievement. Mr Ankersen gets his results in an original and thought-provoking manner. Pure Gold! Mark Rogers writes at Gold Coin: read the full review goldcoin.org (search: The Gold Mine Effect)

UK Market Access On 14 and 15 November, the Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce will head to Aarhus and Copenhagen for two UK Market Access events. Join the Chamber and other organisers and supporters, including the British Chamber of Commerce in Denmark, Delacour Dania and Planova, for a close look at the current British business climate. By Nia Kajastie | Photo: Courtesy of DUCC

“The United Kingdom is a large, attractive and welcoming country and has been Denmark’s third largest export market for many years. The Chamber is determined to support and push for an increased trading relation and value. However, even though we are close trading partners, there are still differences in the way business is being conducted, just from a simple point of view of how you network to cultural awareness and more, and it is important that these are understood and overcome,” says Gunnar P. Larsen, Managing Director of the Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce, who will also welcome the guests to the events.

You will also hear more about the challenges Danish companies have faced, and overcome, when entering the UK market, and receive some practical advice on how to conduct business in the UK. Speakers include Laura Thorborg from the Royal Danish Embassy, London; Hans Monberg, UKTI; Bent Bang Haulrik, KapitalBørsen; Martin Williams, European Business Solutions; and Preben Paulsen, Planova; and the events are moderated by Henrik Kleis, Delacour Dania. The talks will be followed by an informative Q&A session as well as an excellent networking opportunity – not to be missed. The events are free of charge for

everyone; however, participation is on a guest list only basis, so remember to sign up on the DUCC website. For more information, please visit: www.ducc.co.uk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 87

Scan Business | Conference of the Month | Norway

Conference of the Month, Norway

A countryside escape at Helgaker Gård Helgaker Gård welcomes you to a personal conference farm, offering a calm working environment in addition to a true countryside experience among horses and tractors. This is the place for those who are tired of box standard conference hotels without personality.

work is in focus,” Helgaker says. Work is indeed in focus for the companies coming here, and Helgaker is proud to say that most guests leave with the impression that it is a good place to work.

By Anne Line Kaxrud | Photos: Helgaker Gård

Be tempted by a working environment out of the ordinary at Helgaker Gård. Located on a large farm about an hour’s drive from Oslo and Oslo Airport Gardermoen, the family Helgaker has turned the old family farm into conference facilities for medium-sized groups. “It is the place for people who desire a different working environment, in peaceful surroundings that allow for effective working hours in addition to a sneak peek into the life on a farm,” eighth generation owner and host Knut Helgaker says. Together with his wife Gro, he established the new business five years ago while

88 | Issue 45 | October 2012

maintaining some of the traditional farming activities. “A majority of our guests come from the cities, and enjoy the opportunity to live on a farm, drive a tractor and walk around in the large fields,” Helgaker notes. An environment for efficient work You will find Helgaker Gård among endless fields in what is known as Historical Hadeland, one of 11 cultural heritage sites in Norway. “Without exaggerating, we do actually have rather remarkable nature just outside our window. Mountains, water and fields meet, creating the perfect environment for a relaxed conference where

The conference facilities are located in a refurbished barn, and while it offers the most modern amenities, they have kept the old-fashioned rustic touches, making it a charming place. When the night is near, 28 rooms are ready to accommodate the guests. “We do not wish to become much bigger, simply because we want to hold on to the personal service which we know the guests appreciate. Also, people appreciate that only one group is here at the time, giving us the ability to offer customised solutions.” A vibrant farm experience The idea behind the farm came from Knut Helgaker himself. A former employee at

Scan Business | Conference of the Month | Norway

Norsk Hydro, he spent numerous days of the year travelling from one hotel to the other. He thus found inspiration in his own experiences, and five years into the project, it has proved very popular. “It is a contrast to the bigger hotels, and the feedback from customers mainly revolves around our personal service, the quietness and calmness, as well as having the place to themselves,” Helgaker says. “Many are particularly excited by the farm itself and the 10-12 grazing horses during the summer, and the slopes in the snow during winter are highly appreciated. While it is a modern place with only limited farming, people are welcome to experience a true and vibrant farm.”

interaction among the employees. “Horse Tales is developed to encourage communication among the group, and it has proved a useful method,” Helgaker notes. “But there is no doubt that the guests are most excited about driving the tractor, as they drive off into the rugged terrain.”

Tractor competition and horseback riding While providing a good working environment is at the heart of the farm, they also offer a variety of activities for those who desire a couple of hours off the office chair. With activities often related to the farm, guests can choose among a tractor competition, activity trails and horseback riding. Horses are also used in Horse Tales, a team-building exercise where the horse is used to create trust and positive

One may not overlook the food either; the traditional and local food that will make most people hunger for more. Chef Grethe Rækstad is a master at combining old traditions from Hadeland with new twists, while her colleagues would be happy to recommend a suitable wine. Working with nearby conference farms

around Oslo that offer conferences, Helgaker Gård was one of the initiators for a newly established network named Konferansegårdene, translating into Conference Farms. Based on a common focus on personal service, great food and experiences in the countryside, they cooperate on marketing and booking. “The purpose is to work together in case one is fully booked and lacks capacity, and obviously also to make the concept better known,” Helgaker says.

For more information, please visit: www.helgaker-gard.no www.konferansegardene.no

Together with five other farms in the area

Owners Knut and Gro Helgaker offer conference guests modern amenities, personal service and rustic charm.

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 89

Scan Business | Cenference of the Month | Sweden

Conference of the Month, Sweden

Not your ordinary run-of-the-mill meeting place In the northern part of Skåne, only one hour away by train from Copenhagen’s Kastrup airport, lies Stiftsgården Åkersberg, a retreat in picturesque surroundings. The ideal setting is a dream come true for couples wishing to tie the knot, holidaying guests and conference participants.

those people who have touched our souls on life’s journey. Come Christmas, the restaurant invites revellers to a spectacular culinary feast of celebration.

By Ulrika Osterlund | Photos: Stiftsgården Åkersberg

There are various activities to try during your stay: wine, beer and chocolate tastings, fishing, golfing and hiking, to name but a few. For those looking for something more creative, painting and dancing classes can also be arranged. Children and adults alike can seek adventure at the Skåne Zoo just ten minutes away.

”It is a meeting place, a place for growth and a place for rest,” says manager and priest Pelle Sundelin, a former rugby player for the national Swedish team. The manor dates back to the 1600s and has been under the ownership of the Swedish Church for the last 20 years, before which it was an educational establishment for women learning the task of running a countryside household. The adjoining Freedom Chapel with a priest onsite, together with the hotel and restaurant, makes Stiftsgården Åkersberg quite incomparable for weddings and christen-

90 | Issue 45 | October 2012

ings. The popular annual Bridal Fair takes place on 13 October with a fashion show and various exhibitors. The Chapel also houses art exhibitions and concerts. Halloween is a weekend of remembrance and worship at Åkersberg, filled with good food, entertainment and reflection of

Of course, choosing to simply relax is always an option. Enjoy classic cuisine prepared with love and the best of what the region has to offer. Or just sit in the tranquillity of the courtyard and sip on a glass of wine. For more information, please visit: www.akersberg.se

Scan Business | News | Scandinavian Business Calendar

Scandinavian Business Calendar – Highlights of Scandinavian business events Financial Evening with Øystein Dørum Welcome to the yearly financial evening with Øystein Dørum. Topic: "Economic Outlook, four years after Lehman: Have we entered an era of permanently low growth, low inflation and low interest rates?” Venue: Den Norske Klub Date: 11 October

How to control and manage social media within your company Social media can mean a great deal to a company’s reputation and turnover. In order for many companies to succeed, it is essential to learn how to master, as well as learn how to maximize and maintain a campaign within social media. Representatives from Activeark and Advokatfirman Delphi will be on hand to answer an array of questions on the topic. Date: 11 October

Nordic Thursday Drinks The Nordic Thursday Drinks is a perfect occasion to network with people from the Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, and British business communities in an informal atmosphere. Canapés and welcome drinks are generously sponsored for the "early birds" with their names on the guest list. Venue: Radisson BLU Portman Hotel, London Date: 25 October

Mobile Markets and New Product Launch with Nokia FBCC invites you to get ready for the new and upcoming developments in the mobile markets. This exciting day will also allow you to have a unique hands-on experience with the latest Nokia products that will be launched around the same time. More information TBA soon. www.fbcc.co.uk/events/mobile-markets-andnew-product-launch-nokia Date: 11 October 2

Nordic food tasting with North Road restaurant

Link-up Drinks Reception Join the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for a relaxed after-work drink and take this opportunity to mingle with many of our members. Date: 17 October

The evening will offer guests the opportunity to watch cooking demonstrations, taste wild herbs and speak to the head chef and his team about the inspiration behind the award-winning menu. Following a brief introduction, food will be served and guests will be able to network if they so wish. Date: 7 November

Please note that the above events will be open predominantly to the members of the chambers of commerce.

Scan Magazine seeks Freelance Journalists We are currently looking for qualified journalists on a freelance basis. We are looking for journalists with Danish, Swedish, Norwegian or Finnish background. You need to be confident in English as well as at least one of the Nordic languages. To apply, please email your CV to Nia Kajastie at nia@scanmagazine.co.uk

Denmark is all yours..... Rent a car for a day, weekend or week. Only you decide, where to go, in which car and for how long. For booking please call +45 89 33 11 00 Online booking: europcar.dk

moving your way

Scan Business | Feature | University of Lapland

Marketing professor Anu Valtonen (right)

Multidisciplinary education and innovative research by the Arctic Circle Established in 1979, the University of Lapland set in the city of Rovaniemi is an international, multidisciplinary science and arts institution whose areas of study and research include pedagogy, tourism, law, art, design, social sciences, and northern and Arctic affairs. With a relatively small student body and innovative research projects, the university offers a great place for interaction on a social and academic level.

hospitality, holiday programmes and so forth,” explains Johan Edelheim, director of MTI, the Multidimensional Tourism Institute, which is in charge of the tourism research programme of the University of Lapland.

By Nia Kajastie | Photos: University of Lapland

Specialising in tourism research and Arctic affairs, the University of Lapland conducts research open-mindedly across the subjects of science and art and is a dynamic instigator for different projects, nationally as well as internationally. The social science of sleep Marketing professor Anu Valtonen is currently working on a research project tackling sleep from an ethnographic point of view.

moral beliefs such as the ‘unacceptable’ habit of sleeping in public places. Sleeping isn’t a private matter, but a shared part of our culture,” explains Valtonen. The results of the research can then be utilised by service providers like hotels, airlines and airports; providers of services connected to sleep more widely; and the public sector, from architects to sleep clinics. Tourism research

“Contemporary discussion is dominated by the medical and psychological aspects of sleep. We approach sleep from a sociocultural perspective, and we want to show how sleep is shaped by cultural customs, values and beliefs. This becomes apparent through things like sleeping in separate bedrooms and the general use of space, objects like couches, for example, and

92 | Issue 45 | October 2012

The academic subject of tourism research at the University of Lapland is a multidisciplinary field with an emphasis on tourism responsibility. “I don’t accept the idea of a tourism industry. If there was just one, it would be a very easy subject. We’re actually talking about tourism industries, including travel,

“People working in the field of tourism need to have a holistic perspective, and we base our syllabus on tourism responsibility,” he continues. “It’s divided into five different dimensions: economic, ecological, social, cultural and political responsibility.” Tourism research graduates are thus equipped with knowledge beyond seeing tourism as just a movement of people from one place to another, instead they are aware of the ramifications that tourism can have on communities, the environment and different cultures. They are able to inform policy makers about what is actually behind the movement and how you can maintain benefits for the different dimensions and tourism itself. For more information, please visit: www.ulapland.fi and tourism.luc.fi

Scan Magazine | Culture | Anders Matthesen

the changes in my life like getting a family. It is about taking stock of my life, deciding what I want to bring from here, what I can. I don’t know what to call it: a midlife crisis or just a sort of mental clean-up.” Who do you think you are? Who do you think you are? And does that even have anything to do with who you really are? The question of identity and how it can impose limitations on a person is central to the comedian, who is known for his many characters and aliases. “Anden has been part of my identity for years but all of a sudden my friends and family don’t call me that anymore because after all I am a 37-year-old man, and can you be a middle-aged man and still be Anden?” Matthesen asks rhetorically. “It is not because I want get rid of those sides of me, but I have tried to figure out what is what, and that is what the show is about; about getting to know yourself better.” It all sounds very serious, but, of course, it will be just the opposite.

Anders will visit Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Herning Odense and Esbjerg from September to November 2012. Anders Matthesen. Photo: Claus Peuckert

Denmark’s most serious comedian on tour Anders Matthesen, one of Denmark’s best known and most versatile stand-up comedians, is back on the road with the show Anders. The show, which has received exuberant reviews, treats some of life’s big questions. By Signe Hansen

much more easily accessible format than that,” Matthesen reveals. Last year it was rumoured that the comedian had suffered a sort of mental breakdown, but Matthesen attributes the origin of his reflections to more everyday events: “Well I guess it is just growing older and

Press photo

It has been almost three years since Matthesen’s last stand-up tour. Meanwhile the 37-year-old – also known as Anden (the Duck) – has not just been working as an actor but also pondered on some of life’s peculiarities. “The inspiration for the show comes from some of life’s big questions, but it may be presented in a

For more information, please visit: www.anden.dk

Issue 45 | October 2012 | 93

Scan Magazine | Culture & Music | Karl Batterbee

Scandinavian Music also changed her sound completely too. She describes her new music as a cross between Coldplay, Florence & The Machine and Depeche Mode. First single Händerna Mot Himlen has just been released and comes off as a Swedish language take on Coldplay's Viva La Vida. And it's beautiful. The soon to be disbanded Swedish House Mafia have put out an acoustic version of their farewell single, Don't You Worry Child. On paper, it shouldn't really work. But it is much better than it has any right to be and is well worth checking out. It sounds like a latter-day Take That hit. Iceland isn't too well known for its pop scene, but when they do it well, they get it very right. The latest pop exports are Thorunn Antonia and Daniel Oliver. Thorunn Antonia is currently making a lot of waves

Swedish dance artist September has dropped the moniker and is now releasing music under her own name, Petra Marklund. This change doesn't just mean that she is now singing in Swedish, but she has

By Karl Batterbee

with her Robyn-esque album Star Crossed, particularly its lead single So High. And Daniel Oliver is impressing equally as much in the dancepop genre, with his first single outside of Iceland, DJ Blow My Speakers. Both are on YouTube and worth investigating. They are both making their fellow countrymen very proud at the moment. Finally, here's a recommendation I got during a DJ gig last month. Some Swedish reggae music! The Swedes aren't exactly renowned for their approach to reggae (depending on your stance on Ace of Base!), but Syster Sol is a revelation. Secret Place is my track of choice from her. Summer may be over, but it still lives on in this song. www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@googlemail.com

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! A Kassen (until 14 Oct) Through interventions and sculptural works, Danish art collective A Kassen explores the notions of physicality, architecture and the codes associated with institutional structures. Nettie Horn, London, W1W. www.nettiehorn.com

First Aid Kit. Photo: Wichita Recordings

First Aid Kit on tour (Oct/Nov) Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg formed the folk duo First Aid Kit in 2007 and have since then taken the world by storm. This autumn they are touring Scandinavia. For more info visit: thisisfirstaidkit.com

94 | Issue 45 | October 2012

Iamamiwhoami (10 Oct) Swedish internet sensation Jonna Lee is on tour with her new audio-visual album ‘Kin’ - a full-length record accompanied by a 45-minute film. Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, SE1. towhomitmayconcern.cc 56th BFI London Film Festival (10-21 Oct) A number of Nordic films will be shown at the London Film Festival, including Swedish director Gabriela Pichler’s ‘Eat Sleep Die’ and Finnish Matti Harju’s

By Sara Schedin

‘Africa’. Screenings at various venues in London. whatson.bfi.org.uk Bernhoft (15 Oct) Norwegian singer, multi-instrumentalist and lyricist Jarle Bernhoft will play at the Union Chapel, London, N1. www.bernhoft.org The Tallest Man on Earth (22 Oct) Former Monetzumas’ frontman Kristian Matsson is back in London as The Tallest Man on Earth. He will play his Bob Dylaninspired songs at The Forum, London, NW5. hmvforum.com Daniel Simonsen at the Hampstead Comedy Club (27 Oct) Comedian and promoter Ivor Dembina hosts this night which features Dana

Scan Magazine | Music & Culture | Culture Calendar

Alexander, Imran Yusuf and Norwegian comic Daniel Simonsen. Pembroke Castle, London, NW1. www.hampsteadcomedy.co.uk

The London International Festival of Exploratory Music returns to King’s Place with a fascinating line-up of Scandinavian bands, including Deaf Center, Biosphere, EF, Frida Hyvönen and Wimme Saari, to mention a few. Kings Place, London, N1. www.lifem.org.uk Robyn in Berlin (3 Nov) A lot has happened since Robyn had her breakthrough in Sweden with the single ‘Do You Really Want Me (Show Respect)’. She is now a world-known recording artist who has won several awards for her dance-friendly music. Columbiahalle, Columbiadamm 13-21, 10965 Berlin. www.robyn.com

LIFEM: Sounds from the Artic Cool (31 Oct – 3 Nov)

Efterklang. Photo: Rasmus Weng Karlsen

Efterklang (30 Oct) Danish Efterklang will play orchestral rock and uplifting indie pop from their new album ‘Piramidia’ at the Barbican Centre, London, EC2Y. www.efterklang.net

Osmo Vänskä conducts the London Philharmonic Orchestra (31 Oct) Finnish Osmo Vänskä will lead us through a thrilling concerto by Mozart, an ever-refreshing symphony by Sibelius and Nielsen’s enchanting Symphony No. 6. The Royal Festival Hall, London, SE1. southbankcentre.co.uk

1,2,3 o’clock, 4 o’clock ROCK (Until 30 Dec) The 1950s was a time when music, clothes and dance in Denmark were highly inspired by American trends. This is an exhibition about when Danish youth in the 1950s became ‘teenagers’. Every day 10am - 5pm. Museum of Copenhagen, Vesterbrogade 59, DK-1620. www.copenhagen.dk

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