Vindmøllebakken is an innovative co-living housing project located in Stavanger, Norway, designed by Helen & Hard architects in collaboration with Kruse Smith real estate. Completed in 2019, the development comprises 40 co-living units, 4 townhouses, and 10 apartments, built using a low-rise typology of 3-5 stories.
The project is based on the "Gaining by Sharing" model, which aims to create a more sustainable and socially connected living environment. Residents own their private apartments but share 500 square meters of communal spaces, including a kitchen, dining area, workshops, guest rooms, and a rooftop greenhouse. This arrangement allows for a smaller private footprint while providing access to larger shared facilities.
Constructed entirely of wood, Vindmøllebakken features prefabricated timber elements and hemp insulation, creating a warm and environmentally friendly atmosphere. The design incorporates universal design principles and emphasizes natural light, with a central double-height living room serving as the heart of the complex.
The project involved future residents in the planning and development process, fostering a sense of community from the outset. Vindmøllebakken aims to address contemporary societal needs, including loneliness, sustainability, and changing family structures, while offering an alternative to the homogeneous housing market in Stavanger. The development has received recognition for its innovative approach to urban living and sustainable design.