Fact File
Project: Powered by Ulsteinvik
Location: Ulsteinvik, Norway
Architects/Designer: Kaleidoscope Nordic
Timeframe: May 2020 - Nov 2020
Photo credit: KVANT-1
Source: V2.com
Powered by Ulsteinvik is a future-oriented strategy for a small town on the Norwegian west coast. The vision proposes a concentrated center to form a clear urban structure, and a new multi-purpose square that opens the axis from the sea towards the Bjørndals Minne cultural heritage building, highlighting its existing qualities.
The concept of a 300-meter city is strengthened by combining the existing connections with a new smart-grid, autonomous electric buses, and blue-green structures to provide the city with new energy and a network of attractive meeting places.
The core of the project incorporates a smart grid system combining renewable energy, technology, and social urban spaces. The photovoltaic module SmartPergola creates city roofs, meeting places, generates energy and connects Ulsteinvik.
The new mobility plan includes Blåtur (The Blue path), a new seafront promenade that connects the green transverse axes in Ulsteinvik. The inner part of the marina is an activity center with a maritime playground, where small autonomous boats and automated fishing rods provide digital learning with nature experiences.
Furthermore, the vision contains three main concepts: Smarthub in the center, Generation Gardens in Ulshaugen, and Circular Neighbourhoods in Holsekerdalen.
The Smarthub contains new town hall premises, a business hub, a public café, and a 24h innovation lab. The facade is built up of an external sun protection system with photovoltaic panels that produce electricity for the local smart-grid.
The Generation Gardens feature shared facilities between kindergarten, youth club, care homes, and offices for health services. The perimeter configurations create graded outdoor areas with sheltered inner courtyards.
The Circular neighbourhood is a new housing typology with a circular system and shared facilities that provide sustainable solutions. The buildings harvest rainwater from the roofs for use in the apartments. Greywater is transferred to plant beds in the balconies and in the common GrowHouse, providing nutrient-rich water to green plants and vegetables.
