Community Center
The protected industrial complex of Ørje Brug is a meticulously preserved heritage site, rich in the history of timber rafting and wood processing. In this historic setting, adjacent to the Halden Canal locks and the Canal Museum, the original warehouse known as the “Woodchip House” has been re-envisioned and reconstructed as a contemporary architectural landmark.
The design thoughtfully preserves the building’s heritage through a faithful interpretation of its proportions, materials, and architectural expression. Inspired by the original building’s mechanical hoist doors, a system of oversized barn doors and shutters overlays new, expansive glass facades, allowing the building to alternate between its historic, closed-off appearance and a new openness. This adaptive feature honors the original visual language while supporting a dynamic, flexible program for varied uses.
A careful and thoughtful reuse of materials was central to the project. During demolition, all salvageable materials were sorted and preserved. The original roof rafters were restored and reintegrated into the new structure, bringing continuity between past and present. Inside, the staircase was crafted from the original barn floor planks, while the exterior bridge was constructed entirely from elements of the old structural system.
Inside, the structure reinterprets traditional barn construction with a striking exposed timber framework that envelops the interior in warmth and texture. The design celebrates the craftsmanship and materiality of the region, creating inviting, richly atmospheric spaces that are accentuated by an interplay of light and shadow.
The project is grounded in high environmental standards, drawing upon locally sourced materials and skilled regional labor. Constructed entirely of timber, the structure utilizes premium-grade wood for all load-bearing elements, locally felled, sawn, dried, and planed. Sustainable materials were prioritized: wood fiber insulation replaces synthetic insulation, a natural vapor barrier substitutes for plastic sheeting, and wood-fiber wind barriers were used throughout. Even the nails are crafted from beech wood, underscoring the commitment to sustainable detailing.
Local craftsmen, with deep expertise in traditional building techniques, were central to the project’s execution, bringing passion and artisanal skill to each phase. This approach not only preserves invaluable craftsmanship knowledge but also fosters a sense of pride, collaboration, and ownership among the artisans. As a result, the Woodchip House embodies the architectural heritage and identity of the community, serving as a physical and cultural marker of local history, craft, and expertise. Careful attention was given to the reuse of all viable original materials, reinforcing the connection to its industrial past.
The finished building provides two open, flexible spaces designed for art exhibitions, events, and educational activities, creating versatile environments that welcome engagement from individuals, community groups, schools, and businesses, thus enhancing the site’s role as a dynamic cultural and social hub.
