THE BUILD BACK BETTER AWARDS 2023
AN UNRIVALLED YEAR
The Espenes Rest Stop – a ‘destination experience’ by the Norwegian Scenic Routes' initiative – took both PLATINUM and GREEN. The building seamlessly blends nature-inspired aesthetics with intelligent lighting design to create a landmark that subtly enhances its environment while respecting its essence.
Espenes Rest Stop Hardanger, Norway BY LIGHT BUREAU Lighting design practice: Light Bureau Lighting design team: Paul Traynor, Arve Olsen, Christina Haraldseth, Benjamin Reinhoff, Øystein Johansen Architects: Code Arkitektur Notable suppliers: Light Graphix (Rebel Light), Stoane Lighting (Rebel Light) LED Linear (Fagerhult), iGuzzini Pictures: Fovea Studio 36
designing lighting global
The horizontal line of the water, the peaks of the surrounding mountains and the wind conditions all informed the distinctive geometry of the roof. The lighting design by Light Bureau is similarly inspired by the place and the surroundings; the cool moonlight that illuminates the mountain tops and the nearby glacier in contrast to the warm light of fire. Guided by the philosophy of 'less is more' and a 'design with intent' approach, the lighting scheme accentuates the building's sculptural form and the interplay of light and shadow. The lighting's careful interaction with the metal surfaces evokes an ever-changing ambiance when seen from either end of the pavilion that lends an ethereal quality to the space. Light Bureau used less than 40W of power to illuminate the 50-metre-long roofline. The local ecology is respected, such as in the dimly lit roof. The project incorporates luminaires from manufacturers that use circular economy principles by allowing for flexibility in repair, upgrading and upcycling. For the functional aspect of the lighting, thoughtful solutions were employed. In the restrooms, specialised steel and acrylic bollards double as floor lamps, creating a gentle ambiance.
