Sustainable Architecture: Bridging Across Borders

Sustainable Architecture: Bridging Across Borders is a UTFORSK-funded initiative that strengthens competence in sustainable architecture through an exchange between the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and Kennesaw State University (KSU). The project establishes a learning platform for master’s students to explore how climate, culture, governance structures, and market conditions influence sustainable architectural practice in Norway and the United States.

The initiative builds on NTNU’s extensive research experience in climate positive circular communities, zero-emission buildings, and positive energy districts, rooted in the Nordic climate context. This is combined with KSU’s expertise in ecological architecture and its location within the rapidly evolving metropolitan region of the southeastern United States, characterized by a warm, humid climate and different urban development patterns. Through intensive courses, site visits, and workshops, the project connects research-based knowledge with real-world implementation across contrasting environmental and urban conditions.

Photo: Kelly Riedesel.

Purpose & Approach

The project aims to equip future architects with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective required to design sustainable, resilient, and context-responsive built environments. By bridging educational traditions and geographic contexts, the initiative strengthens both academic learning and professional preparedness.

The project develops:

• Comparative learning arenas where students examine sustainable renovation, circular economy strategies, energy-positive design, and ecological architecture across diverse climatic and regulatory frameworks.
• Structured two-week exchange courses combining guest lectures, site visits, workshops, thesis-oriented assignments, and professional networking opportunities.
• Cross-cultural and interdisciplinary dialogue, encouraging critical reflection on how sustainability strategies adapt to differing climate zones, cultural norms, governance systems, and market dynamics.
• Institutional collaboration and partnership building, fostering academic exchange, joint dissemination, and future research cooperation between NTNU and KSU.

Through these components, the project strengthens students’ global literacy, sustainability competence, and professional networks, while contributing to the development of a transferable model for international collaboration in sustainable architecture education.