Norvila

A concrete and timber home in Trondheim that follows its steep forested site and opens every level towards the Nordic landscape.

Norvila in Trondheim is a residential project that both challenges and respects the wild Scandinavian landscape. Set on a steep site within a dense pine forest, the 300 m² house is designed to maximise panoramic views and withstand the demanding Nordic climate.

The architecture is organised as a cascade of domestic volumes. The weight of exposed concrete is balanced by warm vertical timber cladding and the sharp lines of single-pitch roofs. A solid concrete base anchors the building into the rock, while a long external stair follows the house and connects the terraces with the parking level.

The lower levels and supporting structure are expressed in exposed concrete, giving the house a sense of permanence. Above, timber panels and black horizontal screens form a warmer relationship with the surrounding trees. Asymmetric roofs create taller interiors, and broad terraces with slender steel balustrades become viewing platforms across the landscape.

With Norvila, we wanted to capture the spirit of Norwegian architecture: complete integration with nature without hiding the human intervention. Large areas of glazing are positioned to gather the limited northern light and bring the forest into the house. The materials and roof design respond to heavy snow and strong winds, while the stepped organisation gives the living areas direct access to the terraces and keeps the bedrooms private and protected.