The architect’s vision

Architect Niels Torp, together with Bjørbekk and Lindheim Landscape Architects, won the architectural competition in 2011 with the slogan “Sun, Wind and Stars.” Torp is regarded as one of Norway’s leading architects, and is involved in several prestigious national and international projects. Since the competition, he has continued to work on the project at Brunstad, and has provided the design and style for the 1,600 suite apartments.

The venue is set in a stunning landscape, and we wanted to create buildings that could blend into this landscape in a better way than just putting up regular apartment blocks. We were keen to establish a park and then place buildings in it. I was very fascinated by all the meetings, all the communication between the people at Brunstad. We have tried to ensure that the new development also encourages such meetings and communication. We focus on users being able to spend a lot of time outdoors, so they can experience the sun, wind and stars. You can walk on the roof, and we have created several spaces with parkland where you can experience being close to nature. In the buildings, we create welcoming balconies with great views and good sunlight.

Through his design style, Torp has managed to create an impressive facility with functional elegance. It has been designed with a focus on efficient operation and good visitor experiences, but still has an exciting visual expression.

Inside, interior architect Vigdis A. Bergh from Inne Design has left her stamp on the suites. The company is known for bringing nature and traditions into its projects and has received a number of awards both in Norway and abroad. Bergh explains that the idea behind the design is to base the furnishing and decor on Norwegian and Nordic traditions, but still keep it modern and clean, with a touch of something warm and “home-like” in the color and material choices. She has chosen to create four different design expressions for the suites, with a color palette divided into the different seasons. Like Torp, she focuses on ensuring that the design is not at the expense of functionality. For example, the outdoor furniture is designed to be used indoors when needed.

In addition to Inne Design, a user group including some of the early leaseholders in the suites has provided good and important input on the design, decor, and furniture.