The proposal conceived by Agraff Arkitektur AS is organized around a large artificial slope that rises from the street and extends above the building's roof. This strategy allows the single-family homes and apartments to be arranged on the hillside, surrounded by gardens, pedestrian paths, and common areas.
From a construction standpoint, the project is realized through a complex integration of architectural structure and landscape system. The accessible roof supports green areas, walkways, and outdoor spaces. Furthermore, the homes have been carefully oriented to maximize views, natural light, and connection to the green spaces, combining private gardens with shared recreational areas.
"Josefinesvingen" by Agraff Arkitektur AS. Photograph by Hires.
Project description by Agraff Arkitektur AS
JOSEFINESVINGEN a unique take on densification
Josefinesvingen is an innovative densification project in which the lot is doubly utilized. The task was to create a lush living environment adapted to the neighborhood, while simultaneously optimizing conditions for a new convenience store. The key consept of the project is a roof that doubles as a landscape surface.
The lot is situated near the Trondheim landmarks, the Havstein Farm and Havstein Church, and is surrounded by small scale housing and low-rise apartment buildings. It was important to facilitate the small-scale buildings, whilst also providing excellent visibility and parking options for the convenience store (the original store was amongst the oldest of the Rema corporation). This was achieved by designing and building a new landscape feature, a hillside, which rises from street level and above the roofing of the store building. The lot is thus utilized on several levels. The building appears different when viewed from the highway than when viewed from the residential buildings. Thus, the degree of utilization is high while the character of the area is preserved.
Single-family housing and flats are situated on the hillside, surrounded by green areas and interior paths that makes this a comfortable and safe setting for pedestrians. The outdoor areas are designed to be accessible by and adapted to all users. The residences have been meticulously planned to ensure great views, lighting conditions and proximity to the green patches, the latter which are a mix of private gardens and common areas for rest and recreational activity. On street level below the hill, we find the Rema 1000 store and a barbershop, both with entrances facing toward the sidewalk and highway.
The Josefinesvingen-project finds itself at the intersection of architecture and landscape architecture, drawing heavily on principles from both. It embodies the wholesome frame of thought that arises from the balancing of these two disciplines. The architects and landscape architects of Agraff have cooperated closely. The project was designed in collaboration with architect Daigo Ishii of Japan.
