Location
Preikestolen, Norway
Client
Real Estate Company ADM,
Foundation for the Finnish Museum of Architecture and Design.
Tourist, Retail
860 m2
Competition proposal
Admir Cerimagic | MinimalArk
2nd Place Winner | Innovative Vision Award
Published in several architectural journals
The Circle at the Edge
Architecture should be a dialogue, not a monologue. At Preikestolen Basecamp, our circular visitor center acts as a bridge between the traveler and the wild. It begins with the familiar,
a classic gabled silhouette, before transitioning into a fluid, floating form that dances with the terrain.
Inside, the boundaries between indoors and outdoors dissolve. High ceilings and curated sightlines guide you from the warmth of the restaurant to the rugged path of the trail. Whether you are preparing for the climb or decompressing after the summit, the center offers a space of immersion and inspiration. We haven’t just built a center; we have created a lens through which to view the majesty of Norway.
… A building that feels like a physical extension of the mountain …
Nature in Focus
Our design philosophy is simple: architecture must subordinate itself to nature. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, the visitor center becomes part of it. Half of the structure follows the terrain’s natural descent, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior, while the other half floats elegantly above the ground, preserving the original topography. This dynamic interaction creates a series of outdoor spaces that invite exploration and reflection.
Spaces that Seduce
The area surrounding the center is an experience in itself. Visitors are invited to:
Hike directly onto the green roof for panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
Descend through winding stairs that double as cozy seating overlooking the wild.
Gather around a crackling fire in the intimate courtyard as dusk falls.
These spaces are designed to stimulate curiosity and foster a profound sense of togetherness with nature.
A Natural Extension of the Landscape
The center is integrated into the hilly terrain near the iconic Preikestolen trail, replacing existing structures with a modern, sustainable landmark. By utilizing the site’s natural level changes, the building feels like a physical extension of the mountain. This symbiosis is reinforced by a warm, organic material palette that reflects the Norwegian wilderness.
The design remains deeply rooted in local identity. The gabled roofline (salt-roof), an icon of Norwegian architecture, harmonizes with the nearby hotel and local traditions. Crucially, the building is not a barrier; it preserves the freedom of movement, allowing visitors to experience the landscape both above and below the structure.
Timber & Tradition: A Sustainable Vision
Our commitment to the environment is reflected in our choice of materials. The construction is primarily timber-based, utilizing a flexible column-and-beam system.
CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber): Assembled with bolts and screws, these elements form a robust climate shell that can be easily maintained or repurposed.
Minimal Footprint: We are exploring prefabricated point foundations to dramatically reduce concrete consumption and minimize the impact on the forest floor.
This is more than a building — it is a sustainable gathering point designed to enrich the journey to the pulpit’s magnificent summit.
… A haven for reflection after the ascent …
