Lauvåsen Secondary School

Nestled within the scenic woods of Kristiansand, Norway, Lauvåsen Secondary School keeps the needs of people and nature at its core. The school’s landscape design is conversational, bringing nature into the schoolyard while simultaneously extending it into its surroundings. This interaction benefits the schoolyard by establishing areas for active play and peaceful retreat – a space for students, community, and biodiversity to thrive together.

Constructed partially with glulam, the school features a low-carbon design and subtle profile that blends seamlessly into the terrain. "The Clearing" brings educational, recreational, and community spaces to Lauvåsen while preserving its most valuable feature – nature. With the building occupying around 8% of the total site area, the design prioritizes landscape conservation through thoughtful placement, a minimal footprint, and the use of multifunctional solutions and natural materials. Careful planning has ensured the full preservation of the site’s wetland areas, which store 388 kg CO₂ e/m² – nearly offsetting the 400 kg CO₂ e/m² associated with the school’s construction.

Geared towards reducing its carbon footprint, the school aims to preserve the existing ecosystem and vegetation through the incorporation of native flora in its landscape strategy. By lifting greenery on top of the roof, the design engages with its landscape, while minimizing the building’s direct impact on the land. The roof is made up of a combination of this green roof and solar panels, incorporating a renewable energy source into the design.

Growth is prioritized in the design, with vegetation and water integrated to enhance biodiversity and support local wildlife. The building’s roof, shaped to imitate the contours of the surrounding hills, is planted with native species that contribute to both stormwater management and ecological diversity. Rain gardens and waterways guide water through the schoolyard, connecting the stormwater system to the existing wetland and stream.