Gard Headquarters

Our proposal for the Gard Headquarters aims to enhance the architectural narrative of the current headquarters while creating a standalone building that meets future needs. Located in Arendal, Norway our design features a new main building constructed as a demountable and regenerative timber structure, utilizing innovative timber-to-timber construction technologies. This approach eliminates the use of steel and significantly reduces overall CO2 emissions.

Program: New Headquarters
Size: 3500 m2
Location: Arendal, Norway
Client: Gard
Year: 2024
Type: Competition proposal
Collaborators: Oslotre, ID, Lala Tøyen, Vill Energi.
Role: Architecural advisor
Status: Completed
Team JAJA: Jakob Steen Christensen, Kathrin Susanna Gimmel, Jan Yoshiyuki Tanaka, Connor Forecast, Stephen Dietz-Hodgson,

BETWEEN THE MOUNTAINS AND THE SEA

Nestled between mountains and the sea, we have aimed to create a strong relationship to the inherent natural properties of the surrounding landscape, whilst referencing the distinctive architectural qualities of the existing office building. Creating a welcoming and safe space, the new building offers a bright, natural setting for the employees, clients, and visitors.

BETWEEN THE MOUNTAINS AND THE SEA

Nestled between mountains and the sea, we have aimed to create a strong relationship to the inherent natural properties of the surrounding landscape, whilst referencing the distinctive architectural qualities of the existing office building. Creating a welcoming and safe space, the new building offers a bright, natural setting for the employees, clients, and visitors.

 

A NEW CAMPUS

From the reception and into the open, double-height atrium, visual connections are created between the different functions and floors, providing a full overview and making the campus structure clear. The transparent facade creates a seamless transition between outdoor and indoor environments, making Gard's new campus a vibrant meeting place.

A NEW CAMPUS

From the reception and into the open, double-height atrium, visual connections are created between the different functions and floors, providing a full overview and making the campus structure clear. The transparent facade creates a seamless transition between outdoor and indoor environments, making Gard's new campus a vibrant meeting place.