Torshavn, Faroe Islands
2023 - 2026
The University of the Faroe Islands
Incorporating mass timber construction and detailed microclimate analyses, our design for the campus extension of the University of the Faroe Islands demonstrates the benefits of ‘reading the landscape’.
For the design of an 8,000 m² campus extension in the harshest of climates, we drew inspiration from the historic Faroese settlements and ancient methods of adapting buildings to the weather conditions of the North Atlantic islands. Embracing the local custom of ‘reading the landscape’, the design envisions a cluster of buildings placed to create natural shelter.
“Using wind and sun simulations, we have positioned the building volume so it is protected from the elements. We are transforming some existing parts of a parking lot into a new green community space, sheltered from the strong Northwestern winds dominating Torshavn. In this way, we add 150 days to the comfortable outdoor season and create the best possible conditions for outdoor life in one of the harshest campus locations in the world.” - Jakob Strømann-Andersen, Director of Sustainability and Innovation, Henning Larsen
Designed to counteract Torshavn’s often-changing weather – where it can be common to experience multiple weather fronts in one day – the design is anchored by a central enclosed courtyard space that will be shielded by buildings on all sides, creating optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
Material choice inspired by local tradition
Home to some of the world’s oldest functioning timber buildings, dating as far back as the 11th century, the Faroe Islands’ enduring historic structures, traditional craftsmanship and characteristic architecture have been a distinct inspiration for the design of the university extension. The buildings will be constructed using mass timber (glulam and CLT), and covered with a turfed roof to seamlessly blend the buildings with the iconic landscape of Torshavn.
“Our vision draws inspiration from historic Faroese construction methods and the mass timber buildings of the past while offering the University of the Faroe Islands a modern campus that blends seamlessly into the landscape and its varied context,” said Ósbjørn Jacobsen, Design Director, Partner, Henning Larsen Faroe Islands
The new campus features an interior square that serves as the heart. A central ‘street’ and a large stair are designed to foster everyday interactions, as well as a library, informal study spaces, a canteen, a café, space for research and administration staff, classrooms, and a large flexible auditorium.
“Our vision draws inspiration from historic Faroese construction methods and the mass timber buildings of the past while offering the University of the Faroe Islands a modern campus that blends seamlessly into the landscape and its varied context”
Ósbjørn Jacobsen
Design Director, Faroe Islands
Integrated vertical nature
Green elements continue down the northern and southern elevations of the buildings, comprising of façade modules which are designed for vegetation growth throughout the year, specifically in the islands’ Northern Atlantic climate. As a striking contrast to many existing biophilic façade solutions that are add-on components installed onto existing structures, our design is a self-sustaining modular façade system. With its aesthetic and structural features, this façade element introduces vertical nature as an integrated part of the building design instead of becoming an afterthought.
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Design Director, Partner
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