THE ARCHITECT
(TROMSØ, NORWAY · UDINE, ITALY)
(SNORRE STINESSEN ARCHITECTURE)
Out here in the Helgeland archipelago, nature sets the rhythm — wide horizons, quiet islands, and the ever-changing Arctic light.
It is this landscape that inspired architect Snorre Stinessen. Known for architecture that listens before it speaks, his work is shaped by a deep respect for place.
ABOUT THE ARCHITECT
DESIGN TEAM:
SNORRE STINESSEN ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECT:
SNORRE STINESSEN
OFFICES:
TROMSØ, NORWAY + UDINE, ITALY
Snorre Stinessen Architecture – Architect of Calm.
Meet Award winning Architect Snorre Stinessen. Working between the Arctic light of Tromsø and the softer Mediterranean rhythms of Italy, architect Snorre Stinessen has built a reputation for designing architecture that feels both strikingly modern and deeply connected to its surroundings.
His work does not seek to dominate the landscape. Instead, it listens carefully — to wind, light, and terrain — and responds with quiet confidence.
From his studio in Tromsø, Stinessen has spent years shaping buildings along some of the most dramatic coastlines in the world. Yet his approach remains remarkably humble. Nature sets the stage; architecture simply frames the experience.
His philosophy has earned international recognition. In 2025, Stinessen received the prestigious Architizer A+ Award, honoring projects that push architecture forward while remaining grounded in human experience. The award places him among a selected group of architects whose work is shaping the future of contemporary design.
When the Dengerud family first brought Snorre Stinessen here, they called it their “project madness.” A dream born from equal parts courage, curiosity, and love for this wild and beautiful place. What began as a vision for a family retreat has evolved into a destination unlike any other — a living expression of nature, architecture, and human connection.
Snorre looks out towards the endless ocean, follows the waves: “I didn’t want to build on these islands,” Snorre almost wispers. “I wanted to build with them.”
Each structure in Almendingen is born from its surroundings — not imposed upon them. The Almendingen House Adventure Center, will soon be rising from the rocky terrain of the main island – welcoming guests to an experience rooted in simplicity and truth. Crafted from natural materials that age gracefully in the coastal climate, it’s designed to blend into the landscape rather than dominate it.
However accolades are not what define Stinessen. At heart, he remains a craftsman. While much of today’s architecture begins on a screen, Stinessen often begins with a sketchbook. Lines drawn by hand slowly evolve into spaces that feel both precise and organic — buildings that appear almost inevitable in their surroundings.
“For me, great architecture is about the entire experience, where every detail matters. From the precision and craftsmanship of Polar Life Haus to the exceptional design and quality of Expo Nova, Poliform and Antonio Lupi, we have brought together partners who share the same uncompromising commitment to excellence. The ambition is to create something truly extraordinary, where architecture, materials and interiors come together as one seamless expression,” says Snorre.
This approach is clearly visible in the two lodges he designed for the islands surrounding Almendingen.
