PhD thesis "Planning beyond objectivism and relativism. Situated knowledge and etico-aesthetic lines – exploration of transversal ecosophy"

Gisle Løkken, partner and founder of 70°N arkitektur, will defend his PhD thesis "Planning beyond objectivism and relativism. Situated knowledge and etico-aesthetic lines – exploration of transversal ecosophy" at the Department of Architecture and Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Design at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Tuesday September 8, 10:15-17:30 at Disputasrommet, Gløshaugen, also possible to follow online:

Defence of Thesis 8 September 2026: Gisle Løkken – Faculty of Architecture and Design 

The thesis elaborates on the essential question of whether the current planning system is sufficient in a state of escalating social and environmental crises. The work is a practice-based research project grounded in experiences from 70°N arkitektur, analysing the architecture studio’s alternative approaches to situated knowledge and hermeneutic interpretation, understanding and application. At the same time, it explores a variety of ideas from philosophy and other fields and disciplines to ‘bridge the gap’ between theory and practice.

Čoarvemátta receives the DOGA Award for Design and Architecture

Čoarvemátta receives the DOGA Award for Design and Architecture

DOGA is Design and Architecture Norway, a national foundation that promotes the value of design and architecture in society and business. The DOGA Award for Design and Architecture is awarded every year to Norwegian businesses and practitioners who demonstrate outstanding use of design and architecture.

 This year, DOGA received a total of 87 applications. Thirteen of these projects or products will receive the DOGA Award at the ceremony at Sentralen in Oslo on January 29.

The strengthening of Sámi culture and building traditions, the low climate footprint, and the efficient use of resources resulting from co‑location are the qualities highlighted by DOGA in its decision to award the cultural and educational center Čoarvemátta this prestigious recognition.

 

The jury also emphasize that Čoarvemátta stands out with a respectful, site‑sensitive and understated architecture that allows the landscape, the materials and the Sámi references to speak quietly, yet powerfully.

 

Čoarvemátta shortlisted for European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture / Mies van der Rohe Awards 2026

The European Commission and the Fundació Mies van der Rohe has announced the 40 shortlisted projects from the 410 nominated ones for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture / Mies van der Rohe Awards, and  Čoarvemátta is on the list.

The prize, often referred to as the EUmies Award, is one of the most prestigious architecture prizes in Europe. It celebrates excellence in architectural works built across the continent and highlights how quality architecture contributes to sustainable development and the well-being of citizens. 

The 40 shortlisted projects spans 36 cities in 18 countries, and 15 architecture programs. The 7 finalists will be revealed in February.