What if expanding a workplace could also give something back to the city?
For Gard, a global leader in marine and energy insurance, the proposed expansion reimagines the relationship between workplace, building and nature. A small building footprint creates a large shared social space, while making more room for nature along the waterfront. Drawing on the rocky landscape and maritime heritage of the site, the architecture connects people, workplace and city — creating more than just a workplace.
The proposal transforms a car-dominated waterfront into a vibrant coastal park, reconnecting the mountainside, the city and the fjord. By restoring natural habitats, introducing native vegetation and opening up new paths and public spaces, the project creates a welcoming place for employees, visitors and the wider community. An office expansion that gives something back to the city — bringing nature back.
The architecture builds on the scale and character of Gard's existing headquarters. Compact office volumes follow the mountainside, preserving important views and leaving more room for public life and nature. A transparent, double-height volume extends towards the fjord like a lantern, marking the entrance and the building's social heart. Layered glass façades, recycled ship steel and warm timber interiors draw on Arendal's maritime heritage.
Inspired by the rugged shoreline of southern Norway, the landscape restores natural habitats, introduces native vegetation and strengthens biodiversity. Existing rock formations and locally sourced materials shape a coastal park that reconnects the mountainside with the fjord. New paths, piers, bathing facilities and sheltered meeting places open the waterfront to employees, visitors and the wider community.
Compact. Social. Biodiverse.
Sustainable by Design.
More than an office expansion, the proposal creates a new relationship between Gard, the city and the waterfront. A generous coastal park combines native vegetation, locally inspired materials and inviting outdoor spaces, bringing nature and everyday life closer together.
Designed to evolve with the development, flexible public spaces accommodate everything from informal gatherings to larger events. Reusable materials, movable seating and adaptable planting allow the landscape to grow and change over time.
