The Pavilion Brekstad project transforms an old military bunker in Fosen, central Norway, into a versatile pavilion. Fosen is a stunning peninsula, bordered by the Norwegian Sea to the west and the Trondheimsfjord to the east. This pavilion serves multiple purposes, hosting private and social events, lectures, and visits related to nearby farms. Its open and flexible floor plan allows easy adaptation for various occasions.
The client emphasized the concept of “seeing and being seen,” which strongly influenced the pavilion’s design. The building’s floating form and expression significantly contrast its original military function. Where once thick walls served defense and attack purposes, the new design opens up to panoramic views and visual connection to the surroundings.
The pavilion achieves a 360-degree panoramic view, allowing observation of nature, wildlife, and nearby air force bases. The bunker’s heavy, concrete walls and textures remain clearly visible, preserving its imposing character. Above this massive base, a suspended transparent pavilion structure creates a striking contrast between old and new, light and heavy elements.
During the design process, the architect explored various shapes for the pavilion’s footprint. Ultimately, a simple rectangular form was chosen for its flexibility and openness, framing views in all directions. This shape complements the existing bunker, which serves as the project’s foundation. The entrance passes through the former military space, which has been repurposed to include a kitchen, bathroom, and storage.
The staircase is a central architectural feature, guiding enclosed spaces toward natural light. Its elegant, sculptural form clearly directs movement throughout the pavilion. The main materials used in the new construction are steel, glass, and concrete, complemented by wooden elements that add warmth and tactile comfort indoors.
Project Drawings
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
△ Elevation Drawing
Project Information
Architect: ASAS Arkitektur
Area: 137 square meters
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Kristoffer Wittrup
Lead Architects: Ola Spangen, Grimur V. Magnusson, Dag Spangen, Katrine Aursand, Tove E. Andersen, Elisabeth Krogh
Project Management & Conceptual Design: Ola Spangen
Project Management, Conceptual Design & Details: Grimur V. Magnusson
Detail Design: Dag Spangen, Katrine Aursand
Detail Design & Construction Site Management: Tove E. Andersen, Elisabeth Krogh
Location: Brekstad, Norway
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