Blueshouse Notodden

The building opens up as a book cover, and invites people in to read, enjoy the blues, drink coffee, watch a movie, laugh, cry, fall in love and live. 

All functions are on one level and they are open to the central "hinge" space. 

This glass roofed atrium is a hub for all functions. Library is on the left side. Reception with shop and wardrobe is in the middle and auditoriums are on their side.

Blues Café and temporary exhibition area is on the right side. The cafe can be extended without difficulty to the exhibition area and foyer. 

"Live Scene" / cafe has a central place and importance in the building and can both be used as a club to the gigs, or as light and airy cafe premises with terrace and views. 

Presented the solution requires no escape corridors, stairs or extra foyer areas.The design is based on volume efficiency. Live stage and auditorium are high, other parts of the building are low. 

The architecture supports the idea that the building is the council's new gathering place.Sambruk and generality characterizes the project. 

Book and the Blue House will be a landmark, but also a functional space which buzzes with activity. The cantilevered outdoor stage is the main architectural element. Once a year the main stage opens for festivals - the rest of the time it is a physical reminder of upcoming events.