Building for tomorrow: Vindveggen Arkitekter’s sustainable vision

Based near Oslo, Norway, Vindveggen Arkitekter has a clear mission: to design homes and buildings that stand the test of time while minimising the environmental impact.

Founded in 2005 by architect Martin Glomnes, Vindveggen Arkitekter is an architectural firm named after a historic structure near Fetsund and Rælingen – a 600-meter long wall in the lake known as Vindveggen, meaning the wind wall, which protected timber from wind damage. Like its impressive namesake, the architects at Vindveggen Arkitekter have long-drawn structures with that same resilience in mind, creating homes and buildings to last many lifetimes.

Glomnes explains that Vindveggen Arkitekter has a history of sustainability going back to its founding. “Our focus has always been on designing buildings that endure and inspire,” he says. “While we emphasise genuine ecological design, reducing CO2 emissions, and building structures that last, we also create spaces that foster good work and living environments.”

Lystad Brannstasjon is a prime example of the firm’s dedication to eco-friendly architecture. Built from wood, recycled steel, and low-carbon concrete, the fire station was designed with high environmental ambitions, focusing on economic, social, and ecological sustainability.

One of the fire station’s key features is the use of the geothermal energy, which is harvested from underground wells and is used to heat the building and provide hot water. It’s a renewable and long-lasting solution, which works well in combination with the solar panels that provide green electricity to the building. Further, the sedum on the roof is used to retain rainwater, enhance insulation from heat in summer, and protect the roof membrane from UV radiation.

“These systems work together to make the building as self-sufficient as possible,” Martin explains. Beyond the environmental considerations, Lystad Brannstasjon was also designed with the well-being of its employees in mind. “We wanted to create a good working environment for these key workers,” Martin says.

With a fully staffed station around the clock, the design includes residential-like accommodations for comfort. There are individual sleeping quarters, training rooms, and a multi-purpose hall where staff can play sports like football, basketball, and badminton, not to mention a rock-climbing wall. A training tower, both indoor and outdoor, allows them to practice rope work and climbing. “We also added a kitchen and a quiet area where they can relax and watch movies,” Martin adds. “It’s important that they have spaces to rest when not on duty.”

Web: www.vindveggen.no
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Contact: post@vindveggen.no