Hønefoss

Hønefoss

This proposal for a new residential quarter for the town of Hønefoss engages with the land structure of the former agricultural fields and existing topography of the site, providing a well-connected layout of common green spaces, gardens, footpaths and cycleways at the edge of the forest. Planned with a high-density arrangement of 2 and 3 storey terraced buildings which will be distinct from their neighbours, resisting the existing suburban tendency for detached houses central to a large plot, in favour of a more efficient arrangement of terraces and gardens. The housing is distinguished by two types; a townhouse with 4 bedrooms and a courtyard type of 2 bedroom dwellings. Both housing types can be easily modified to address changing work and living patterns with tall ceilings and large windows, spaces which are well ventilated, naturally lit, and with access and views to gardens. Each home is entered through a shared garden at the front or a semi-private yard and garden space at the rear. The shared gardens offer the potential for small-scale cooperation between the residents of the whole terrace. The structural arrangement of the terraces utilises an economy of repetitive form minimising the extent of the external envelope, reducing construction material costs and increasing environmental performance.

June 2021
Location: Hønefoss, Norway
For: Ringerike municipality
Size: 3.7 ha