This month we are celebrating the first birthday of our Architect of the Month series! For 12 months we have worked with talented architects from across the Nordics, and they have shared their stories with all of us.
Our Architect of the Month series
It has been wonderful to learn what drives these professionals, why they became architects, and which projects they are most proud of. Every conversation has shown us new ways of thinking and working that help all of us move forward together.
We at Nordic BIM Group are grateful for these collaborations. Seeing how these creative minds solve problems and use digital tools has been a real inspiration for our team.
We are also glad to see that you, our readers, have enjoyed these stories. The Architect of the Month articles have been among our most read content over the past year.
Looking ahead, we are excited to keep sharing these stories. They help all of us grow and learn together.
The first year of Architect of the Month
Let us take a look at the remarkable architects who have been part of our journey so far. During the first year of our Architect of the Month series, we have got to know 12 Nordic architects: 5 from Norway, 4 from Finland, and 3 from Sweden. Although these architects come from different countries, different stages in their careers, and different philosophies, they are all united by a dedication to designing better and more thoughtful environments.
To better understand their profiles, we have grouped them into key categories. These are based on their approach, their values, and their expertise:
Pioneers of architecture
Some of our Architects of the Month can be seen as creative leaders who push the boundaries of form, function, and aesthetics.
Marco Schön (NO) is a German-Norwegian architect working at Skaara Architects. He combines artistic vision with functional design. His notable project, *Villa in the Forest*, is an example of his commitment to blending modern architecture with the surrounding environment, creating sustainable and harmonious living spaces.
Marianna Heikinheimo (FI) is the CEO of Ark-byroo Oy and a multidisciplinary professional with a background in architecture, business, and visual arts. Her expertise lies in sustainable renovation and in combining historical and modern architectural elements, inspired by the work of Alvar Aalto.
Nicolay Nicolaysen (NO) moved from art director to architect. He emphasises creating homes that evoke a sense of belonging and comfort. Nicolay is the head of Tide Arkitekter and focuses on designing spaces that stir emotion in their residents.
Originally from Mexico, Maria Ibarra (NO) is an architect with a minimalist yet vibrant approach to architecture. Inspired by figures such as Luis Barragán, Maria designs spaces that are both functional and emotionally enriching. She strives to create environments that feel naturally "right".
Champions of sustainable design
Sustainability is a very important part of many architects' work. These architects place climate, material use, and future-oriented thinking at the heart of their projects.
Working as a project architect and BIM coordinator at ARCO Architecture Company, Sofia Merenmies (FI) specialises in large-scale projects focused on sustainability. Her work aims to improve the user experience and quality of life through thoughtful design.
Henrietta Borseman (SE) is the head of sustainability at ETTELVA Arkitekter. She integrates environmental considerations into architectural practice and promotes sustainable solutions in urban development.
Susanna Elmäinen (FI) works at JKMM Architects on environmentally friendly architecture. She focuses on designing buildings that are in harmony with their surroundings, using natural materials and energy-efficient solutions.
Artistic and cultural designers
Combining architecture with culture, art, and visual storytelling is a central part of an architect's work.
Linda Morioka Bøe's (NO) architectural approach is deeply rooted in cultural context, and her designs reflect and honour local traditions and aesthetics.
By combining architecture and visual arts, Øyvind Johnsen (NO) explores the intersection of space and artistic expression, often incorporating multimedia elements into his projects.
Technical and functional experts
Some of our Architects of the Month are detail-oriented architects who excel in construction logic and structural clarity.
Philip Ay (SE) specialises in urban planning and addresses the complexity of urban development, aiming to create cohesive and efficient city environments.
Working mainly in renovation, Jarmo Saari (FI) focuses on structural integrity and functionality. He designs buildings where practicality comes first, without compromising on aesthetic value.
Lars Olausson (SE) brings technical precision to his architecture projects and ensures that design concepts are translated effectively into structurally sound buildings.
Part of the story: become our next Architect of the Month!
As we celebrate this one-year milestone, we are already looking forward to the stories we will share over the coming year!
Are you an architect with a story to tell? Would you like to be one of our upcoming Architects of the Month? We are always looking for passionate professionals who are shaping tomorrow's built environment.
Feel free to get in touch and tell us about your interest in joining the Architects of the Month. We look forward to hearing from you and would love to hear your story.
Do you want to be the next Architect of the Month? Share your story with us.
