Our architectural ambitions for BKK Montana are informed by simple concepts of re-use, small-scale density and shared spaces. The project resembles a mountain village where every inhabitant had their house built by the same carpenter: three variations of a prefabricated module are placed around the existing BKK building, which transforms into a house for people, culture and work. The placement of the new houses defines a series of space which scales vary between a little garden courtyard to a generous public plaza, designed to service the new Montana inhabitants and their neighbours. The height of each house is determined by the desired sun exposure around it, while their placement follows the topography gently – this allows for beautiful views unto the woody surroundings. Spatial and social sensitivities are strengthened with a careful distribution of programs which in turn activates different parts of the site at different parts of the day. The BKK apartments make optimal use of the existing infrastructure and work beautifully with its industrial qualities (material, ceiling heights, and so on). We believe that community-building is really about synchronizing user needs and creating opportunities for sharing resources and places, and thus sharing life.

Collaboration with Sweco and BKK.