The proposed project for a school site in Florø, situated near the sea, presents an opportunity to blend architectural innovation with the natural beauty of the landscape. The rugged terrain, characterized by expansive rocky outcrops, serves as the canvas for our vision of a school that integrates with its surroundings.

The abundant presence of rocky terrain on the site inspires our design ethos, guiding our choice of materials and architectural strategies. Our aim is to create a building that harmonizes with the natural palette of the surroundings, utilizing primarily natural materials that complement the rugged coastal landscape. Moreover, we envision elevating the building on stilts to minimize disruption to the existing terrain and to maximize the utilization of the varied topography.

The envisioned structure is predominantly constructed from timber, with a foundational base of stone and extensive use of glass to provide abundant natural light and panoramic views. Timber, both in the form of mass timber for walls, floors, and ceilings, and laminated timber for beams and columns, lends a warmth and simplicity to the architectural expression, while also offering sustainability benefits.

The school is organized into five distinct zones, each serving specific functions and interconnected by a central courtyard. These zones include administrative areas, classrooms with adjacent locker rooms, recreational facilities such as a gymnasium and swimming pool, specialized teaching spaces for subjects like music and crafts, and communal areas like the library and cafeteria. The layout is designed to foster a sense of community while providing diverse learning environments tailored to different activities and age groups.

Strategically positioned windows and skylights ensure ample natural light and ventilation throughout the school, with north-facing windows in classrooms to minimize glare and provide consistent lighting. The library, positioned to overlook the sea, offers a serene and inviting space for study and contemplation, while an atrium at the heart of the building serves as a light-filled focal point, enhancing connectivity between various spaces.

In summary, our proposed design for the seaside school embodies a harmonious blend of architectural innovation and environmental sensitivity. By embracing the rugged beauty of the coastal landscape and integrating sustainable designn principles, we aim to create a nurturing and inspiring learning environment that celebrates its natural setting.

In collaboration with Åshild Fjeldberg