It is a great honour to receive the IAUD International Design Award 2024 – Gold Award.

From the very beginning, the vision for Norway’s first Treetop Walkway was clear and meaningful: to celebrate nature and offer all nature lovers, regardless of age, ability or physical limitations, the sensational feeling of walking amongst the treetops. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity and for the extraordinary collaboration with FYRESDAL KOMMUNE and HØGDE (Faun Naturforvaltning AS).

Opened in 2023 as part of the Hamaren Activity Park in Norway, the 1 km plank boardwalk extends on pillars from the forest floor to the summit – taking all user groups on a slow and poetic walk through the forest canopy, culminating in a rush of excitement as they take in a scenic view of lake against sky at 60 meters above lake water level.

The jury praised the project for its contribution to the development, delivery, and dissemination of Universal Design, stating:

“A jaw-dropping, inspirational, elevated experience available to all. The Nordic mindset of inclusion is presented in practice here and could act as a benchmark study for other nations.”

Read more here.