Astruptunet Visitor Center

The natural beauty of the Jølster landscape, and especially at Astruptunet, is stunning. A visitor center at this site not only offers a chance to experience Nicolai Astrup's portrayal of the landscape, but to actually immerse oneself in it. The design of the new visitor center prioritizes harmony with its surroundings, minimizing its visual impact. The building is seamlessly integrated into the hillside, with only a few facades visible to reduce its perceived volume. A couple of openings in the ground distribute the interior spaces over two levels.

Nature flows over the roofs, creating terraces and a path that helps make the landscape more accessible. The zig-zagging path weaves through the site, linking the upper and lower levels and extending to form a loop connecting the visitor center with the artist's former residence. Walking along the path above the visitor center, visitors may see others enjoying their coffee and the magnificent lake views from the rooftop terrace.

Inside, the design emphasizes the lake's scenic beauty on both levels. On the lower level, visitors are welcomed into an open foyer designed to host temporary exhibitions and events, creating a dynamic entry point. The main exhibition space is accessed from here. A sculptural staircase connects the foyer to the upper level, where a café and shop invite visitors to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

In collaboration with Alessandro Macaluso.

Location: Sunnfjord, Norway
Size: 920 sq m
Status: Competition Entry