The idea of transpositioning grew from a desire to challenge established working methods and explore the tools that govern the design process. If a landscape architect thinks like an architect, and vice versa, we can reach insights and solutions we might not have reached otherwise, they reasoned.
“Transpositioning allows us to ask better and more relevant questions, such as: ‘If I were a contractor, would it make sense to use timber just here?’, ‘Is there local expertise available?’, ‘Is it certain we can get hold of the material for this construction, given the site’s conditions?’ says Marius Hauland Næss, incoming CEO at Snøhetta.
With transpositioning as method come new insights and lessons that Snøhetta takes forward into future commissions. Marius Hauland Næss believes the method also means Snøhetta meets many engaged and competent collaboration partners who help develop the work forward.
“For Snøhetta it’s crucial to constantly question, push boundaries and never be satisfied with given truths or solutions until we’ve examined the problem from several different perspectives. We talk about a constant state of renewal. We must dare throw ourselves into deep water – seek beyond our comfort zone.”
This approach consequently creates ripples and provides both a broader view of design and more perspectives. Lakehouse is a telling example, where they never worked from outside in. The landscape is Lakehouse and Lakehouse is the landscape.
A fundamental strategy for driving innovation and creative processes forward
“We see transpositioning as a fundamental strategy for driving innovation and creative processes forward. It gives us a broader view of design and more perspectives, which ensures a better result and solutions we perhaps wouldn’t have discovered otherwise,” says Marius Hauland Næss.
Reactions from clients speak volumes. Those who seek out Snøhetta want, according to Marius Hauland Næss, to be challenged.
“They love it. I assume that’s why they turn to us. If they want a project that’s already drawn and planned without having to rethink, I don’t understand why they’d turn to Snøhetta.”
Text: Mattias Boström Photo: Ivar Kvaal
