Ulstein Arena, Ulsteinvik

Initiated by the local municipality, it opened in December 2017 and contains a sports arena, library, swimming facilities and a climbing hall. Carefully placed in among the small wooden houses in the centre of Ulsteinvik, the goal was to create a facility that is both adapted to the environment and brings urban qualities and life to the town. It was also important that the arena was for everyone - regardless of age, culture and physical abilities.

Connecting the town

Architecturally, the project consists of two big halls connected by a shared foyer. The buildings are partly set into the terrain and have several levels, so they don’t dominate the lower surrounding town and landscape. Instead, the buildings form a series of new urban areas and passageways that connect the town’s pedestrian streets. This way, the urban structure is reinforced, while at the same time creating a synergy between the town life and the activities of the new arena.

Extensive use of wood

The slanting shapes of the buildings reference the mountains in the background as well as the town’s shipyard industry. The facades are exposed concrete, partly covered with dark zinc sheet, while the interior has a warmer materiality with extensive use of wood.

Benefiting community and environment

By using local entrepreneurs and craftsmen, the project has boosted local construction industry. Local residents were extensively involved in the development of Ulstein Arena, and the residents’ input has made Ulstein Arena a very popular facility for the community.

Robust and durable

When the project was awarded the State Award for Building Quality in 2018, the architects were also commended for the climate-adapted design with a focus on robust and durable solutions. The building has its own heating system using seawater as an energy source, providing heat not only for Ulstein Arena but also for the local primary and secondary schools, the church and 44 new apartments.