Lier-drammen IO

LINK Architecture's innovative digital tools have been crucial in the design process, enabling simulations of different solutions to achieve the project's full potential. This has provided a good basis for designing a sustainable environment in all respects, with good living qualities for all those who will live and work in the fjord city.

Controlling parameters

A digital platform and collaboration models with the client were established early on. In an open planning process, common collaboration and control tools, a file-sharing structure, and a digital 3D model were used to gather various parameters from requirements and ambitions. Requirements and guidelines for volumes, utilization rates, sun, daylight, outdoor spaces, and sustainability ambitions are followed up using data-driven tools.

In the sketch phase, detailed solutions can be simulated, and adjustments made easily. Mobility solutions, sun and noise conditions, volume and building heights, street widths, and outdoor spaces can be evaluated and refined further against the requirements that have been set.

"The analyses create opportunities for good decision-making that minimizes risks. In such a large project, there are a lot of parameters to keep under control. We must have 100 percent trust that the information we receive is correct. This provides a significantly faster path to the goal and much greater assurance that the project has good qualities and is feasible," explains Geir Hagehaugen of Eidos Eiendomsutvikling AS.

Parametric design - an important design method in early stages

The fjord city will have a wide range of building typologies and prominent blue-green structures. To optimize these typologies and ensure views, parametric tools are used. A data-driven tool ensures that as many apartments as possible have a view of the sea, fjord, park, or blue-green areas. During the design process, parametric design has also been used as a tool in the design with regard to local climate, sun, and shade.

Microclimate analyses ensure good city life

Microclimate analyses were carried out in the planning phase when the plot was evaluated and guidelines were set. It is about creating as pleasant areas as possible around the homes and placing parks, squares, and meeting places in the best possible way. It is also about how outdoor areas can be used and planted, getting the right volume between these areas, ensuring that the homes do not cast too much shadow, and optimally utilizing daylight throughout the day.

The digital processes have made it possible to work smarter and set the right conditions for the good life. By being involved early on, the architects gained a holistic perspective and advised on the actions that would have the greatest impact on the project. Together with the client, they achieved the best possible balance between economic, social, and ecological sustainability.