Community Landscape

A rippling parametric installation in the frozen arctic of Norway, ‘Community Landscape’ by Bjørnådal Arkitektstudio redefines the concept of a grandstand into a monumental, functional work of art. The 30-meter-long structure winds between the trees of the Grønnåsen School in Tromsø to enhance the fabric of the school while also becoming a social gathering point for the local community after hours. Able to accommodate up to 70 people at a time, Bjørnådal Arkitektstudio’s ‘Community Landscape’ creates various seating and activity spaces including secluded niches for rest, and more open landscapes for larger gatherings. Through engaging and functional design, the grandstand intends to bring the local community together. ‘Because the art and architecture that really mean something to people are the ones they come into contact with every day,’ explain the architects of Bjørnådal. ‘Here, on the bench, students can relax with a view of the basketball court, and after school, all the people in the neighbourhood can find a place to sit with other people, or just enjoy the view.’ From its materiality to its form and orientation, the design takes several cues from nature and underlines the city’s spectacular natural setting. The structure is composed of natural and durable duraply wood, which echoes its surrounding natural context. Bjørnådal Arkitektstudio also positions the grandstand to ensure it becomes a part of its natural and urban environments.