Sanden Hodnekvam

Winner. Europan 2021. Open international competition.
Masterplan Fagerstrand.
Location: Fagerstrand, Norway
Size: 1,4sqkm
Year: 2021

Fagerstrand has enormous potential as an area in development, with its proximity to Oslo, the west-facing slope and location along the Fjord. The natural and cultural heritage of Fagerstrand acts as a catalyst for sustainable development in which urban development and preservation of flora and fauna form a healthy balance above and below sea level. The unique geographical conditions of Fagerstrand and its rich industrial history, provides the opportunity to create an attractive place to live and work. In light of the environmental crisis, it is hard to propose a new development without adressing the growing biological challenges on land and in the fjord. Fagerstrand should become a role model in sustainable development, circularity and new ideas in urban development – and create new habitats for all living species.

We propose 4 pillars for a new, green, living Fagerstrand:

1 Healthy fjord
The Oslo Fjord must be saved and the most important measures are interventions on land. Prevention of harmful substances and toxins leaking into the fjord are the most effective interventions to start the restoration project. Preservation of existing vegetation and natural landscape, restoration of local habitats and new systems for water management are all effective measures – which will provide better living conditions for living species in the water and on land.

2 Productive city
Industry is often neglected or viewed as incompatible in urban development. Fagerstrand has a rich industrial history and remnants
of the oil age still dominate the waterfront. With emerging automation
and new types of industry, the trend of relocation is about to reverse.
The electrical revolution and lessons learned after the pandemic have resurged the Norwegian village as a place to live, work and produce. This entry examines how sustainable production, value creation and innovation can co-exist with urban development. A sustainable development where the old and new industrial landscape is woven together with urban settlement - creating a productive city in keeping with Fagerstrand’s identity.

3 Green mobility
Our proposal prioritises health-promoting, low-emission and space efficient mobility. The existing infrastructure for cars is kept intact,
while new investments are investments in green mobility. A green connection serves as a recreational path for humans and other living creatures. It works a connective tissue between the seaside, the housing areas, the local center and Bakkeløkka. The public transport network
is strengthened with the creation of mobility hubs at strategic sites, providing parking spaces and e-rental fleets in close proximity to all inhabitants. Electric ferries connect Fagerstrand to Oslo, as well as to adjacent villages at Nesodden and Drøbak.

4 Living city
At Fagerstrand, we connect land, sea, industry and urbanity. All valuable natural and built structures are preserved and strengthened in order to revitalise the fjord, the natural landscapes, conserve resources and create an identity. Existing landscapes, with a particular emphasis on important habitats, are protected. A weaving of urban structures with natural landscapes provide better living conditions for all species, above and below sea level. House-buyers are usually forced into choosing between urban apartments without natural qualities and single family houses without urban qualities. The proposal suggest typologies that combine both. A dense and urban area in close contact with the fjord and its green surroundings.