The Plus, the groundbreaking furniture manufacturing facility in Norway, has been honoured with the prestigious RIBA International Award for Excellence 2026, earning global recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable architecture, low-carbon construction, and human-centered design.
The award, presented by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), recognizes outstanding architectural projects from across 15 countries and four continents. The winning projects demonstrate how thoughtful and intentional design can enhance everyday life while contributing to a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future.
Designed as a global showcase for environmentally responsible construction, The Plus combines architectural innovation with advanced timber engineering. The 7,000-square-meter facility was constructed using a timber frame assembled in just 15 weeks, demonstrating the efficiency and scalability of modern mass timber construction.
Developed for furniture manufacturer Vestre, the plus-shaped building consists of four interconnected wings, each dedicated to a specific production function: a colour factory, wood factory, assembly hall, and warehouse. At its center lies a welcoming courtyard and visitor center, creating a unique space that integrates manufacturing, transparency, and public engagement.
A key contributor to the project’s sustainability credentials is the extensive use of engineered timber. The structure incorporates 1,702 cubic meters of Sylva™ Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) supplied by Stora Enso, used in floors, roofs, and walls throughout the facility. The high load-bearing capacity of the Sylva CLT wall system enabled wide, open spans of up to 24 meters, providing flexible production spaces while reducing the building’s carbon footprint.
The timber structure was further enhanced with 650 cubic meters of glued laminated timber (glulam) beams and columns supplied by Moelven, creating a robust and efficient structural framework that supports the facility’s operational and sustainability goals.
The recognition of The Plus at the RIBA International Awards for Excellence highlights the growing role of mass timber and low-carbon materials in shaping the future of industrial architecture. By combining innovative design, efficient construction methods, and sustainable building materials, the project sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible manufacturing facilities worldwide.
Project Team
- Developer: Vestre
- Architect: BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group
- Structural Engineer: Bollinger+Grohmann
- Main Contractor: Ø.M. Fjeld
About The Plus
The Plus is a state-of-the-art furniture manufacturing facility located in Norway and developed by Vestre. Designed to be one of the world’s most environmentally friendly furniture factories, the project combines sustainable construction practices, innovative timber engineering, and efficient manufacturing processes to create a landmark for low-carbon industrial architecture.
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