Copenhagen-based architecture studio EFFEKT has designed a unique and inclusive way to access and experience nature. Humans have always had an intimate relationship with the nature that surrounds them. From being a source of nourishment to the body to providing natural shelter, nature has always played an important part in the well-being of humans. With time, however, the manner of interaction between humans and nature has evolved from survival to well-being. Today, for humans surrounded by cityscapes, nature walks have become a popular way to reconnect with their unprocessed surroundings. These walks offer opportunities to unwind, reduce stress, and enhance overall happiness. For differently-abled individuals, however, accessing and completely experiencing nature can be quite challenging. Uneven terrain, lack of wheelchair accessibility, and limited facilities often pose difficulties.

Located in the picturesque Telemark region of Norway, Treetop Walk is Norway's first treetop walkway and provides visitors of all ages and physical abilities with a breathtaking view of the surrounding pine forest. It is designed to seamlessly integrate with its surrounding natural landscape. It uses locally sourced pinewood and employs innovative construction techniques to create a one-of-a-kind nature walk experience. 

Conceptualised with the aim of reconnecting people with nature, the treetop walkway takes visitors on a poetic journey through the forest canopy, allowing them to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. Extending to one kilometre with a width of two metres, the walkway gently winds its way through the treetops, subtly following the natural curves of the mountain. Multiple rest stops and balconies along the walkway offer natural stopovers with opportunities to pause and appreciate specific viewpoints. At its culmination, the walkway features a circular viewpoint that offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the pine forest, clear lakes, and rocky formations, elevating the visitor's experience to new heights.

The Treetop Walk also acts as an educational platform with interpretive signs along the route that provide information about the local ecosystem, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. The walkway raises awareness about the importance of sustainable design and responsible environmental practices. It aims to foster a deeper connection between nature and its visitors, inspiring them to become stewards of the environment.

In addition to its form, the material selection also plays an important role in integrating the walkway into its surroundings. EFFEKT uses locally sourced pinewood for both the loadbearing structure and the boardwalk and railing. This relates the walkway to the pine trees it is surrounded by and pays homage to the region's history of pinewood construction. Visually, it looks like the walkway is levitating through the forest, enhancing the sense of being immersed in nature.

To construct the walkway, EFFEKT collaborated with a local contractor. Along with the contractor Inge Aamlid, the architecture studio developed a simple wooden building system that focused on reducing its environmental impact during construction. The use of locally sourced materials also makes the walkway a sustainable installation. The construction system uses small and straight prefabricated elements that can be easily handled on-site, thus protecting the surroundings. These pieces were assembled to form a natural shape that bends around the trees, gently following the undulations of the terrain.

Restricted by the COVID-19 pandemic during the design and construction process, the EFFEKT team relied on topographic maps and photographs provided by Fyresdal Municipality to create 3D models. This helped them design a precise construction plan for the challenging terrain. As a result, the walkway is the result of intimate collaboration and co-creation between the architects, the local contractor, and the municipality.

The local municipality also comes in to provide regular maintenance to ensure the long-term sustainability of the walkway. The comprehensive maintenance plan focused on the walkway and its surroundings includes regular inspections, wood treatment, and repairs to make sure the walkway remains safe, sturdy, and visually appealing.

Creating inclusive spaces by implementing accessible trails, ramps, and sensory experiences can empower differently-abled people to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature and ensure equal opportunities for all. With its use of sustainable and inclusive design, the Treetop Walk is an example of one such intelligent design intervention. It successfully uses sustainable design principles to create a truly inclusive and accessible way to enjoy nature. It is also a demonstration of how human-made structures can live in harmony with the wild and offer opportunities for education about the need for environmental conservation. It inspires designers and nature enthusiasts alike to create spaces that prioritise the environment while offering memorable and transformative experiences for all.

Project Details

Name: The Treetop Walk
Location: Fyresdal, Norway
Year of completion: 2023
Design Firm: EFFEKT
Contractor: Inge Aamlid