Climate-driven housing for New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Using the land as our canvas, BIOSIS is delivering a much-needed, climate-driven residential development for the Town of New-Wes-Valley in Newfoundland, Canada. The design responds thoughtfully to the rugged terrain, limited development-ready land, and growing demand for homes. As always, we work with nature to create resilient, site-specific architecture that strengthens local communities.

The project will provide 17 multi-unit homes and a commercial space, all featuring ocean views and close access to local amenities. By introducing this new housing model, we are bringing greater diversity to the rural Atlantic landscape—welcoming families, seniors, singles, and newcomers into an inclusive and connected community.

The project is being developed in collaboration with unArchitecture Ltd. and the Town of New-Wes-Valley.

Unlocking new land for housing in Atlantic Canada /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

A major challenge in Arctic and Atlantic Canada’s housing crisis is the loss of stable land due to melting permafrost. Leveraging our expertise in Arctic architecture, BIOSIS conducted a feasibility study that re-examined building sites and foundation methods. Through in-depth analysis of the natural landscape, climate, vegetation, construction techniques, and community needs, we identified new opportunities for climate-driven and minimal impact development in previously unsuitable areas in two Labrador towns.

Climate-driven and resilient design
This new housing development includes approximately 55 mixed-unit residences, designed for seniors, single individuals, couples, and families in the mountainous terrain of a town in Labrador.

Guided by BIOSIS' climate-driven design approach, the buildings are elevated on structural pillars, reducing the need for extensive ground disturbance while allowing for natural snow accumulation and effective water runoff. By introducing alternative foundation methods, BIOSIS has made it possible to build in previously overlooked areas with existing infrastructure.

The architects' climate-driven design approach helped create a structure that withstands extreme weather conditions while ensuring high energy efficiency. The integration of local materials and passive design strategies enhances durability and minimizes energy consumption, making the homes both cost-effective and resilient in Arctic conditions.

Creating self-sufficient communities
Beyond housing, the development incorporates essential shared amenities tailored to local needs and traditions. Workshops, secured storage for fuel and firearms, a community freezer, skidoo parking, and multi-purpose utility rooms all contribute to a self-sufficient and interconnected community.

Situated at the town’s edge, adjacent to a protected natural area, the development is designed to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings. A small public nature centre will serve as a bridge between the community and the landscape, fostering environmental awareness and a deeper connection to the land.

Rethinking land use for resilient housing in Atlantic Canada /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

A major challenge in Arctic and Atlantic Canada’s housing crisis is the loss of stable land due to melting permafrost. Leveraging our expertise in Arctic architecture, BIOSIS conducted a feasibility study that re-examined building sites and foundation methods. Through in-depth analysis of the natural landscape, climate, vegetation, construction techniques, and community needs, we identified new opportunities for climate-driven and minimal impact development in previously unsuitable areas in two Labrador towns.

A climate-driven, minimal-impact approach
Following an extensive feasibility study conducted by BIOSIS—analyzing the natural landscape, vegetation, climatic conditions, construction methodologies, tectonics, and societal dynamics—a suitable site was identified within the mountainous terrain of a town in Labrador.

Rooted in BIOSIS’s philosophy of climate-driven design, the project prioritizes minimal environmental impact while ensuring long-term resilience and energy efficiency. To preserve the natural topography and reduce costs, the design minimizes blasting, opting instead for an elevated pillar system that allows buildings to adapt seamlessly to the steep mountain slope.

This approach not only reduces construction impact but also enhances durability by allowing snow to accumulate naturally beneath the structures, mitigating wind exposure and enabling controlled water runoff. Designed for extreme Arctic conditions, the buildings feature high thermal performance and passive design strategies, reducing energy consumption while maximizing efficiency and comfort for residents.

Strengthening community ties and liveability
A key priority of the development is ensuring strong connections to the town’s existing infrastructure, preventing the creation of isolated, inefficient communities. The project promotes intelligent land use, ensuring that new homes and shared facilities contribute to the town’s social and cultural vitality.

The development consists of approximately 25 mixed-use residential units designed for seniors, single individuals, couples, and families. In addition to housing, the project incorporates essential community resources that support local ways of living.

A dedicated language nest fosters intergenerational language preservation, strengthening cultural continuity. Shared workshops and utility rooms provide opportunities for skill development and self-sufficiency, supporting both traditional and modern practices. Designated skidoo parking ensures accessibility for daily and seasonal transportation, while secured storage for fuel and firearms enhances safety. A community freezer reinforces food security, preserving traditional food practices and reducing reliance on external supply chains.

Exploring New-Wes-Valley: Our First Site Visit /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Our first site visit with our local partner, unArchitecture, took us to the rugged landscapes of New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland and Labrador - a place where bedrock shapes both the terrain and the architectural challenges ahead. Designing for such an environment calls for a climate-driven, minimal-impact approach, ensuring that new structures integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings.

A heartfelt thank you to the New-Wes-Valley community for the warm welcome, even in the midst of snow and cold. We’re excited to begin this meaningful project and look forward to developing resilient housing solutions that respect the land and support the community.

Stay tuned as we bring this vision to life!

BIOSIS and unArchitecture to lead groundbreaking project in New-Wes-Valley /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

We’re thrilled to announce that BIOSIS, in partnership with unArchitecture, has been selected to design an innovative new project in the stunning New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland and Labrador.

This project is an exciting opportunity to redefine the region with bold, climate-driven architecture that addresses unique challenges, including rugged landscapes and limited development-ready land. Our design approach will harmonize with the natural environment while enhancing the local community.

We’re deeply honoured to collaborate with the Town of New-Wes-Valley to create architecture that doesn’t just adapt to its surroundings but thrives as an integral part of them. Stay tuned for updates as we bring this vision to life.

Lagunen near completion: Redefining retail with an inside-out design /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

BIOSIS leads the architectural design for Lagunen II, the expansion of Norway’s largest shopping center, Lagunen Storsenter, in Bergen. Scheduled for completion in fall 2025, the project adds 15,000 square meters of retail, dining, and office spaces, setting a new standard for resilient design in one of the rainiest climates in the world.

Departing from traditional mall concepts, BIOSIS embraced an inside-out approach, creating a semi-sheltered and open environment that fosters connections with the surrounding community. Key features include green walls, rooftop terraces, and a cantilevered roof for rain protection, all designed to harmonize with Bergen’s urban landscape.

The project, developed in collaboration with Lagunen DA (partly owned by the Thon Group) and local contractor LAB, showcases BIOSIS’s expertise in climate-adaptive design. The expansion integrates resilience, social vibrancy, and seamless connectivity with public transit hubs.

With over 200 businesses expected within its footprint and an estimated 8 million annual visitors, Lagunen II will solidify its role as a cornerstone of the regional economy and a vibrant community hub.

Read more about Lagunen II in Estate Media Vest: Lagunen er delvis ferdig.

Integrating Green Spaces in Nuuk: A Feasibility Study /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

BIOSIS has conducted a comprehensive feasibility study on enhancing urban green spaces in Nuuk, Greenland’s rapidly growing capital. This project, supported by Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq and funded by Dreyers Foundation, addresses the critical need to balance urban development with the preservation and integration of Arctic biodiversity.

The study explores strategies for incorporating natural landscapes and native vegetation into Nuuk’s urban framework, aiming to combat the city's increasing urbanization pressures. It emphasizes the creation of new green spaces featuring endemic Arctic plant species to enhance biodiversity, support cultural identity, and improve residents’ quality of life.

Key objectives include:

  • Preserving existing natural vegetation during urban expansion.

  • Introducing sustainable, biodiverse green spaces that reflect Greenland's unique natural heritage.

  • Providing actionable guidelines and reference points for future urban planning in Arctic climates.

This initiative lays the groundwork for pilot projects that integrate green infrastructure into urban areas, fostering a harmonious relationship between nature and the built environment in Nuuk.

Read the full feasibility study and learn about its findings below or here.

Hello, World!

BIOSIS at the First Nations Housing & Infrastructure Forum East /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

BIOSIS will participate in the Canadian Institute’s 8th Annual First Nations Housing & Infrastructure Forum East on December 5th, 2024, in Toronto. Co-founding partner Morten Vedelsbøl will speak on the topic “Designing for the Future: Building Sustainable Communities.”

Morten will share insights and examples of sustainable housing solutions that foster resilience and growth in First Nations communities. Key topics of his presentation will include:

  • Approaches to Designing Resilient Housing: Strategies to support sustainability and community well-being.

  • Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Integrating cultural heritage with contemporary infrastructure needs.

  • Tackling Remote Challenges: Addressing design and construction in environmentally sensitive regions.

BIOSIS brings extensive experience designing for remote regions, including the Nordic, North Atlantic, and Arctic areas. Our work emphasizes collaboration with communities, ensuring designs are shaped by local climates, landscapes, and cultural contexts. This approach allows us to create solutions that are practical, sustainable, and deeply connected to the people and places they serve.

Event Details

  • Date: December 4–5, 2024

  • Location: Novotel Toronto North York Hotel, Toronto, ON

Learn more about the event and agenda here.

Join us at Arktisk Festival 2024 in Copenhagen /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

BIOSIS is part of this year’s Arktisk Festival in Copenhagen where we will be giving a talk on “Climate-Driven Architecture with Respect for People and Landscape.”

In the session, we will delve into BIOSIS’s philosophy of climate-driven design. Working primarily in cold, windy, and snowy regions across the Nordic, North Atlantic, and Arctic areas, our approach embraces the elements. Wind, snow, meltwater, and extreme cold are more than just challenges - they’re integral to how we shape our buildings. By respecting the natural landscape and using locally sourced materials, BIOSIS aims to create structures that leave minimal impact on the environment. We also believe in community-led and culturally appropriate design, ensuring that each project reflects the traditions and values of local communities.

Date & Time:
November 3, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM

Location:
Iceland Embassy Foyer
Nordatlantens Brygge, Strandgade 89, Copenhagen

The Arctic Festival is all about exploring the beauty and challenges of the Arctic - an area gaining global importance as climate change and geopolitics continue to shape its future. This unique event celebrates the cultural and environmental richness of the Arctic, bringing together artists, thinkers, and communities who live and work there.

Come along to experience the Arktisk Festival, explore the Arctic’s influence on global culture and politics, and join us in discussing how architecture can be climate-conscious and community-oriented.

For more details, check out the festival program: arktiskfestival.dk/portfolio-item/biosis/

Opening of the Danish Architecture Center's exhibition, The Water is Coming /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

On Monday, October 7th, the Danish Architecture Center's exhibition, The Water is Coming, was inaugurated by H.M. King Frederik, who serves as DAC’s protector. This thought-provoking exhibition delves into a vital question: How can we coexist with water as both a life-giving resource and a powerful force of nature?

Featured in the exhibition is the Kullorsuaq Community and Daycare Center in Greenland, an example of climate-driven, minimal-impact design that transforms the challenge of managing meltwater into an inspiring opportunity. Built primarily from wood and elevated on pillars, the design respects Greenlandic building traditions and harmonizes with the natural terrain. Here, meltwater flows into ponds and streams in the landscape’s natural crevices, offering dynamic features for children to explore and enjoy year-round.

The Water is Coming is open until March 23, 2025.

Blending tradition with climate-driven design and minimal impact for the Ningitsivik development in Nuuk /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

The housing proposal for the Ningitsivik development in Nuuk has been developed in close collaboration with local partner Titarneq. The proposal blends innovation with Greenlandic traditions and includes a range of custom single-family homes and multiplexes designed to prioritize comfort, durability, and low maintenance.

Constructed primarily from wood and elevated on pillars, the design respects traditional Greenlandic building methods while following the natural contours of the terrain. This approach ensures minimal environmental impact and emphasizes the principles of resilient, climate-conscious design.

P094 - Engaging scales /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

The recently completed Nuukullak 10 positions itself within a complex landscape and architectural context, offering many scales to engage with. To the north, the building gently rises above the ridge, establishing an important relationship with the scale of the adjacent one-and-a-half-story residential buildings.

P149 - Site visit and façade mock-up inspection in Bergen, Norway /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Site visit to inspect a façade mock-up for 'Lagunen II' in Bergen, Norway. The horizontal solar shading provides optimal daylight conditions to enhance the well-being of the building users while also reducing the need for cooling. The louvers contain a high percentage of recycled material, which reduces the carbon footprint to less than a fourth of the global average.

'Lagunen II' in Bergen, Norway, is designed around social sustainability and community building, transforming the otherwise introverted building complex by opening up the building envelope to restaurants and cafes on the entire ground floor. South-facing roof terraces on each level provide social outdoor spaces for all users.

Construction is ongoing, and the building is expected to open to the public in late 2025.

P094 - Residential complex Nuukullak 10 finalized /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Nuukullak 10 lies gently perched on the mountain ridge of Entreprenørdalen, a district in Nuuk that is currently undergoing a transformation from a former industrial area into an attractive new urban district. With its location on the edge to the nearby valley and upcoming coast trail called Kyststien, Nuukullak 10 will play an important role in connecting people with the striking and recreational landscape that surrounds it.

A climate-driven design approach
For Nuukullak 10, it was about finding solutions that can break down the forceful northern winds and optimize the few daylight hours in winter. Thorough studies of wind, flow and daylight were applied to refine the design and to increase the building performance and influence the livability for its residents during the entire design process. By creating an intimate scale of a low-rise building that orient according to the micro-climate, the architects created a building that improves the indoor and outdoor comfort for its residents.

To provide the needed protection against the harsh northern winds, the building forms a distinctive horseshoe shape that envelopes the truncated triangle shaped courtyard. The open end of the courtyard towards the south brings in light and views of the backdrop landscape and sea.

Let nature take the lead
BIOSIS’ minimal impact approach meant that rock blasting was kept to an absolute minimum to preserve and respect the natural terrain, habitat, and biotopes. Situated on the edge of the ridge with a steep slope, Nuukullak 10 ascends from street level to the ridge's highest point, progressively gaining elevation. The structure respectfully follows its natural topography, stepping both vertically and horizontally to allow the mountain and natural landscape to subtly influence its profile.

On the ground floor, the building elevates and unveils a glazed café space facing a small square welcoming pedestrians and cyclists to further facilitate connections, foster community development and enrichment in Nuuk.

Comfort tailored to last
Nuukullak 10 contains 45 apartments that accommodate various layouts and sizes ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom apartments to meet different people's needs - from students and singles to families. The units have minimalist interiors with generous bay windows that offer daylight and unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and natural landmarks such as the Ukkusissat mountain and the Nuup Kangerlua fjord.

All units have south-east-facing balconies strategically placed to get the most sun and daylight while being shielded from the prevailing arctic wind from the north. The perforated façade cladding adds further shelter while also providing privacy without compromising views, light flow, and ventilation.

The façade cladding in solid and perforated sheets of weathered corten steel interplays naturally with the colours of the surrounding vegetation. BIOSIS was inspired by the natural conditions of the site in terms of textures and colours and have chosen the corten steel due to its robust properties and its ability to shift expression, weather naturally and patinate during the seasons in harmony with snow or the beautiful nuances and textures found in the bedrock and vegetation on the site.

EXHIBITION - Nuukullak 10 in Nuuk, Greenland showcases climate driven design at BLOX in Copenhagen /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Recently constructed, Gartnerigrunden, also known as Nuukulak, in Nuuk, Greenland, embodies climate-driven design at its core. It is readily evident as a response to the prevailing winds and the contours of the natural landscape. It can be seen exhibited at DAC (the Danish Architecture Centre) in BLOX, Copenhagen.

EXHIBITION - Faroese microclimates exhibited at BLOX in Copenhagen /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

The proposed new development of Stóratjørn in Tórshavn on the Faroe Islands is in essence a series of microclimatic settlements combined into a neighborhood in symbiosis with its natural surroundings. It is an honor to be able to bring this project to the Danish Architecture Center and represent a sustainable development for the Faroese people, rooted in their own unique landscape, climate and traditions.

EXHIBITION -The Kullorsuaq project in Greenland conveys the passion for climate driven design at the Danish Architecture Centre in Copenhagen /  by Morten Vedelsbøl

Situated north of the polar circle Kullorsuaq is an extreme environment. Understanding the local climate has been pivotal in the development of a project that not only creates sheltered outdoor spaces for the users and children of the house but also for the city as a whole, generously providing an entirely new sheltered gathering place for all.