Snohetta Foundation

The Snøhetta Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization established in 2025 to address pressing societal and environmental challenges through the transformative power of architecture, design, and public art.

While operating independently from Snøhetta AS, the Foundation builds upon the studio’s 37-year legacy of socially responsible and environmentally conscious design. It serves as a platform for education, research, and cultural exchange—bridging disciplines, geographies, and generations to advance knowledge and creative collaboration globally.

Rooted in the principles of social sustainability and inspired by the UN’s Our Common Future report, the Foundation’s mission is to preserve, support, and foster intellectual discourse, strengthen education, and promote innovative practices as catalysts for positive change.

Key activities include:

• Education & Capacity Building – Master Classes and mentorship programs in partnership with universities such as the Library of Alexandria (Egypt), JJ School of Applied Art (India), and the Universität der Künste (Germany). These programs expand access to design education, especially in underrepresented regions, through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning based on Snøhetta’s “Concept Methodology.”

• Research & Archival Work – Development of a physical and digital archive in collaboration with the National Museum of Norway and the National Archives, making over 1,000 models and drawings publicly accessible. Current partnerships include NORAD, UNESCO, and filmmaker Deeyah Khan to contribute to the Global Digital Library of Knowledge and Wisdom.

• Cultural Dialogue & Exhibitions – Organizing international symposia and exhibitions, including Rethinking Spaces for Dialogue (Oslo Opera House, 2025) and Rethinking Rebuilding (Library of Alexandria, 2026), which address post-conflict rebuilding, peace mediation, and cultural cooperation.

• Educational Equality Initiative – Ensuring equitable access to design education in the Global South, following a Theory of Change model where transformation is driven by local institutions and educators.

The Foundation’s work is guided by an independent Board and an Advisory Council representing law, design, philanthropy, and education. Founding Board members include Stephan Jervell (Chair), Kjetil Trædal Thorsen, and Craig Dykers. The Advisory Board features leading figures such as Johan Olav Koss and Ole Gustavsen, bringing expertise in humanitarian work, sustainable design, and institutional governance.

Through cross-sector partnerships and a growing international network, the Snøhetta Foundation acts as a bridge between culture, education, and social innovation—nurturing creative talent, promoting inclusion, and shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.