16th September, 2024

Skala Architecture and Helen & Hard enter into a strategic collaboration

Words: Skala Arkitektur, Helen & Hard

There is no mistaking our shared core competences and ambitions.

As leading architectural companies within wooden construction in Scandinavia, and as specialists in wooden constructions as well as caring, creative and social communities, Norwegian Helen & Hard and Danish skala architecture form a strong partnership.

Together we will create the framework for the sustainable construction of the future. The partnership has been established with a long-term perspective and a common interest in promoting knowledge about wood and its use as a sustainable building material.

A shared responsibility for sustainable development

As architects, we see a responsibility in securing the cities, buildings and landscapes of the future. However, this responsibility is sufficient far beyond simply using biogenic building materials. We work as architects and partners based on a common set of values, where we prioritise the use of environmentally friendly materials such as wood, because we see it as a crucial element in a sustainable future with unique tectonic possibilities. Wood can contribute to the creation of identity-creating architecture, a high quality of experience, environmental benefits and a healthy indoor climate.

At the same time, we have learned that sustainable architecture includes more than just wooden construction. When we work with sustainability, we start from the environmental, social and economic context and create architecture that addresses the sustainability aspects of construction projects.

We are convinced that through the revitalisation of the existing building we can integrate historical
architectural qualities with modern requirements, which both strengthens and supports the longevity of the building’s local community development. For us, sustainable architecture also includes the reuse and reactivation of urban environments, places and structures to promote social communities.

The TRÆ (Timber) Network

We believe that the knowledge we gain through our collaboration should be widely shared. Only by sharing our experiences with the entire construction value chain, can we promote knowledge about and the use of wood as a sustainable material. That is why we have established a TRÆ (Timber) network – a professional community where decision-makers / builders, manufacturers and advisers can share knowledge and experience about the potential of wood in construction; as a biogenic material for a sustainable future and architecture.