Tromsø is currently gaining a new cultural heart. On the grounds of the former Mack Brewery, a new district is emerging that will soon house the Arctic Philharmonic, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum, and a cultural center: Samklang.
Samklang—Norwegian for harmony, interplay, and resonance—captures the spirit of this bold new cultural venture. The 17,000-square-meter development is set to become a landmark both architecturally and urbanistically in Norway’s northernmost city. It brings together major cultural institutions under one roof and will redefine the cityscape of Tromsø.
The international competition for the project was won by ALA Architekts (Helsinki) in collaboration with Nordic Office of Architecture (Oslo) . Their concept goes beyond simply co-locating institutions; it envisions a holistic, interconnected cultural ecosystem.
The Third Room
At the core of the design is the “Third Space”—a spacious, light-filled foyer that serves as a social hub and a place for spontaneous encounters. This inviting central atrium visually and functionally connects the various cultural facilities.
In Tromsø, the sun doesn’t rise for nearly two months in winter, and doesn’t set for several weeks in summer. The building’s outer shell, which glows even in the darkest season, reflects this extreme natural light cycle and is meant to symbolically and physically embrace the city’s cultural life.
The jury was particularly impressed by the compact, vertically-integrated design. A central vertical core connects all levels, while the compact footprint reduces façade surface area—improving energy efficiency and making the building well-adapted to Tromsø’s harsh climate.
Spaces for Sound—and Beyond
Great attention was paid to the acoustics and adaptability of the performance venues. The main concert hall, developed in collaboration with Kahle Acoustics and Charcoalblue, features a subtle fan-shaped geometry for superior sound distribution. It can be quickly transformed into a theater—making it a true multi-functional performance space.
A second venue, the chamber music hall, offers stunning views and flexible technical infrastructure. With its own lobby, it can be used independently for smaller concerts, readings, conferences, or private events.
A Cultural Ecosystem
Rather than isolating each institution, the design fosters interaction and accessibility. The open, welcoming layout invites visitors of all backgrounds—not just classical music enthusiasts—creating opportunities for low-barrier cultural experiences.
Samklang embodies a radical integration of disciplines: music, visual arts, performance, and more. This cohabitation is reflected in the architecture, which avoids hierarchical zoning in favor of equal, interconnected spaces.
Living Culture, Not Just Displayed
The Nordnorsk art museum is not a separate entity but part of the shared cultural experience, supported by design studio Casson Mann. Glass artist Åsa Wigum´s installations enhance the building’s interplay of natural and artificial light.
The “Third Space” foyer serves not just as a transition zone, but as a vibrant social center. Flow between concerts, exhibitions, and cafés is seamless. Year-round amenities like public lounges, a museum shop, and cafés keep the building active beyond scheduled events.
A Symbol of Transformation
That such an ambitious cultural complex is being built on the grounds of a former brewery is a powerful symbol. What was once a site of production becomes a place of creativity, reflection, and sensory engagement. This is no nostalgic gesture, but a strategic one: central location, high accessibility, and deep symbolic resonance.
The Mack site is not just being revitalized—it’s being transformed, becoming a model for successful urban regeneration.
Architecture for the Public Good
The collaboration between ALA Architects—known for iconic cultural buildings and transport hubs—and Nordic Office of Architecture, a leader in sensitive, context-aware Nordic design, proves to be a perfect match. Their shared experience with complex public projects is evident in every detail.
Norconsult acted as the consulting partner, bringing its interdisciplinary expertise across engineering, architecture, and digital services to bear.
For Tromsø, Samklang is more than a building—it’s a commitment to the public value of art and culture. It sends a strong message to locals and visitors alike: this city believes in the power of creativity and the arts.
Text: Linda Benkö
Photos: ALA / Nordic