© KHR arkitekter AS . Pubblicata il 05 Febbraio 2008.

KHR architects build a new school and swim bath on Nygårdstangen in Bergen. The project which is knows as Helleren, collects school and swim bath in one large building.

© KHR arkitekter AS . Pubblicata il 17 Marzo 2008.

A natural extension of the surroundings

© KHR arkitekter AS . Pubblicata il 17 Marzo 2008.

It has been a crucial factor for KHR that the new building â??Hellerenâ?? is capable of blending in with the area and present itself as a natural extension of the surroundings. Through function, size and location in the surroundings the building will become a cultural pivot in the area, and thatâ??s why the building must become a part of the city which grows around it.

The meeting between the landscape and the elegant city pattern which surrounds the building on the terrain is expressed by the architecture of the building. In the distance the building is perceived as one large structure, a huge stone by the waterfront, which has been polished by the elements. Coming in closer the structure opens up and displays precise carvings as an entrance to the building which is created from the lines of movement which are found in the city. Thereby the â??stoneâ?? will present itself as a brand for the city along with being a shelter in a collected and windy part of Bergen.

A building which ages with the surroundings

The building will be covered with metal plates among other Tombak â?? a cobber alloy used for the font and the roof. Tombak has a dark brown/golden color, which intensifies over time as the material is patinated. The idea is that the metal plates on the front is dyed in green and blue nuances thus creating an array of colors on the front which makes the building interesting and provides it with a friendly expression which binds the school and swim bath together.

The combined exterior is also applied inside the building where school and swim bath is integrated. The interior rooms appear light and with white surfaces with clear and strong colors. Herby a contrast between the exterior and the interior is created. The light colors inside the building transports the light down through light from above and the sides, thereby making the buildings rooms well lit on all levels.

The connection between the school the swim bath and the large interior volume with an overall area of 26.000 m2 ensures that the building has the capacity to offer a number of different interior designs thus presenting Helleren as an intelligent and modern building. A building which has the capabilities to ensure great flexibility and quickly can be adjusted for future demands.