Inspired by the idea of a hidden gem, local Norwegian architecture studio Link Arkitektur has constructed a building that is almost entirely covered in glass panels to house The Norwegian School of Economics. The structure occupies an area of 13,000 square meters, located near the rocky boulders on the shore of Bergen, a city on the Western coast of Norway. The building has been configured to be as low and as compact as possible due to complex restrictions that prohibit any buildings to disrupt the scenery.
In order to lessen the carbon footprint of the structure, the architects in charge have allocated glass panels on the exterior to reflect and immerse itself into the surrounding landscape. The result is an ever-changing facade that imitates nature through reflection.
The structure was completed with the help of Sweco Engineers and Smedsvig Landskapsarkitekter and the result is a flexible and environmentally friendly structure.
Reflective Nature-Mimicking Structures
This Norwegian School is a Natural Canvas for Nature
Trend Themes
1. Nature-mimicking Architecture - The trend of creating structures that reflect and blend into their surrounding landscape, providing an opportunity for green design innovation and sustainable construction.
2. Reflective Facades - The trend of using glass panels to create facades that reflect nature, providing an opportunity for energy-efficient and visually stunning building design.
3. Hidden Gem Buildings - The trend of creating structures with a subdued and purposefully hidden aesthetic, providing an opportunity for unique and unexpected architectural design.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry can use this trend to create structures that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency, while also providing an aesthetically pleasing design that blends with its surroundings.
2. Construction - The Construction industry can utilize this trend to innovate sustainable construction techniques and materials, while producing visually stunning structures.
3. Engineering - The engineering industry can help advance this trend by developing new reflective materials that are energy-efficient and sustainable, as well as creating innovative construction techniques for designing buildings with a low carbon footprint.