Norwegian Scenic Routes are 18 selected roads that run through the Norwegian landscapes with unique natural qualities, along coasts and fjords, mountains, and waterfalls. The routes are intended as alternatives to the main roads, and the drive itself should be an enjoyable experience.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration has held a design competition for three rest areas along the Norwegian Scenic Route in Hardangervidda: Vardestopp, Ørteren and Våkavadet.
Landscape architects Bjørbekk &Lindheim have been awarded the competition with the design concept “LA VERE” (… let it be)
“LA VERE” has a deep understanding and respect for the specific landscape of the Hardangervidda plateau, which is Norway’s largest national park and the largest untouched natural area in Norway. Wild nature is under great pressure, and it should be set has highest priority for preservation. These sensitive areas have a unique value in terms of flora and fauna, being extremely important the protection of these natural ecosystems.
This is the background for the concept “LA VERE”:
An idea for a wider understanding of the natural and cultural identity in Hardangervidda, a more sustainable and humble approach into nature, emphasize the natural qualities of the landscape and explore the character and identity of the three different sites with a clear and simple form language.
The idea for the design of rest areas is taken from the organic forms in the landscape, inspired in traditional and site-specific art and culture from Hardangervidda.
The main element from the rest area it’s called “Kragen” (the collar) with inspiration from old peasant culture of Hardanger. “Kragen” creates a new edge between the parking area and the landscape, allowing different uses and activities along the platform.
The jury notes that “The Collar” acquires an organic and soft form that creates a large capacity with a long seating edge with small zones for rest and leisure, with a simple and durable material that reduces maintenance costs.
The concept creates a new poetic, and respectful layer that elevates the unique landscape of the Hardangervidda national park as it creates a close and strong encounter between men and nature.
The three rest areas are designed according to the same form language and will lie like three beads on a long string.
Client:
Norwegian Scenic Routes from The Norwegian Public Roads Administration
Silje Myhre Amundsen
Landscape architecture (Bjørbekk & Lindheim):
Nuno Almeida, Katrine Brekke Ellingsen and Svein Erik Bergem
Seminar:
Knut Jorde (Geology), Stefanie Reinhartd (Ecology) and Gro Lauvland (architecture theory and place thinking)
Models:
Kamil Benon Rød, Svein Erik Bergem
