Timber iQ August - September 2020 // Issue: 50 August - September 2020 | Page 26

INTERNATIONAL PROJECT
Bjergsted Financial Park
By Thor Olav Solbjør, chief executive officer of SAAHA
Bjergsted Financial Park in Stavanger, Norway, is the new head office for SR-
Bank located in the centre of the city.
ALL PHOTOS BY SINDRE ELLINGSEN; SCHEMATICS HELEN & HARD / SAAHA
The head-on street view of Bjergsted Financial Park on Stavanger, Norway.
To build a large-scale bank in timber challenges the
notion of a strong, robust bank, while at the same time is
breaking ground for the use of structural timber. The
main structure of the 13 200m 2 above ground section of seven
storeys, is made solely of timber.
CONNECTING WITH ITS SURROUNDINGS
Bjergsted Financial Park opens up towards the town and creates a
generous connection between the building and its surroundings. A
small park is established in relation to the entrance, creating a
transition to the traditional surrounding small-scale timber housing.
Towards the east, the building expresses a more urban character; the
elongated, calm façade gradually develops in height along the street.
Here, the building creates a sheltered walkway along the street, which
also houses a bus stop.
DESIGN CONCEPT
The plan layout of the building is organised around an atrium which
brings light, air and green qualities into the building. Various and
informal meeting places are oriented towards the atrium. These act as
a buffer towards quiet workspaces, mainly placed along the exterior
façade of the building.
3 500 beech wood joggles were used in the
project.
The experience as you enter the building.
24 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020 // www.timberiq.co.za