The Urnes World Heritage Center strives to be the embodiment of the history and identity of the Urnes Stave Church. The overall goal is to let the design strengthen the center's function through architectural design, especially with the help of the roof which connects strongly to the landscape and the "Urneshagen".

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The World Heritage Center intends to give an open, inspiring and positive impression that will make the place inviting and inspiring. A range of activities ensures that a wider audience will easily have access to and enjoy the culture and history of Urnes Stave Church and will at the same time be a suitable center for research and learning.

Plan concept

The key idea is to enforce the connection between the center and the stave church through the cafe area. From here you can go up the stairs that point directly to this important cultural building. 
This connection will lead the visitors directly towards the stave church. This is done out of respect for the sight and gives a spiritual and symbolic feeling. 

The width of the terrace / café / staircase area is determined by the projected width of the stave church. In addition, the idea is to create a passive house roof for the World Heritage Center that will follow the natural terrain. There is a terrace on the west side of the World Heritage Center that will give visitors panoramic views of both the fjord and the surrounding countryside. The terrace is next to the cafe. 

The exhibition area creates a connection between the entrance and the fjord with a view of the landscape to the west. It is possible for visitors to get a glimpse into the exhibition area from the outside and get an idea of the center's content. Maximum modularity is assumed for all work areas, and a good height in the exhibition area ensures the greatest possible view of the surrounding surroundings and plenty of daylight. Inside, the vestibule is well located, an important meeting place from which you can easily reach the shop, the reception, the entrance to the exhibitions and the cafe.