barentshouse, kirkenes by reiulf ramstad architects image courtesy reiulf ramstad architects

 

 

 

reiulf ramstad architects have released plans for their sky high barents house project. the artic town of kirkenes is the hub of regional relations between norway and russia. the barents house will mirror the diverse interchange that is taking place between the two nations and symbolize innovation and open possibility. wood and timber play an important role in the culture and traditions of both nations. therefore the concept was to create a signal edifice out of wood. the result will be the tallest building in the world (constructed of wood); a multi- functional, architecturally innovative structure that constitutes a pilot project regarding the use of wood in the buildings of tomorrow.

 

the building will function as a lighthouse for the development of the barents region and the regional border cooperation in the north. it will include a number of facilities, among them a library, a theater and a creative environment for artists, researchers, students and other relevant institutions. the norwegian barents secretariat, the international barents secretariat and the barents institute will of course also have their offices in the building.

reiulf ramstad architects: barents house, kirkenes barentshouse, kirkenes image courtesy reiulf ramstad architects

reiulf ramstad architects: barents house, kirkenes barentshouse, kirkenes image courtesy reiulf ramstad architects

 

 

project info:

 

location: kirkenes, norway program: a center for cultural and innovative interchange between russia and norway. client: the norwegian barents secretariat size: 10,000 sqm commission type: invited ideas competition 2009 1st prize status: ideas project completed year: 2009