Feasibility study was one of architect’s first jobs

Haptic's Norwegian airport

Haptic and Nordic’s Norwegian airport

Haptic and the Nordic Office of Architecture have been appointed to design a new airport in Norway catering for visitors hoping to see the northern lights.

The announcement comes as Haptic arrived in Cannes for the Mipim property fair, one of 19 practices being showcased by RIBA London.

The project, on Norway’s west coast at Mo i Rana, just south of the Arctic Circle in prime northern lights and midnight sun territory, includes a new terminal building, airport control tower, service buildings and associated structures.

The appointment follows a feasibility study in 2010.

Haptic director Tomas Stokke said: “This was one of the first projects we undertook at Haptic, so we are especially pleased to see it coming to fruition. It is a unique opportunity to create a brand airport in an amazing location.”

Haptic is already working with Nordic – Norway’s biggest architect – on a 220-room hotel and conference centre in Straume, also on the west coast of Norway.

It is also working on a number of airports in collaboration with other practices, including the $9 billion Istanbul Grand Airport with Grimshaw.