Bergen has transformed a former school into an inclusion centre using the Dignity by Design framework, co‑locating services for refugees and the local community while prioritising reuse of materials and social outcomes.
The Bergen Inclusion Centre in Norway is the first pilot project applying the Building Dignity approach in the city. The initiative involves converting a former school building into a facility that hosts language education and a range of services for newly arrived refugees and migrants, while also providing spaces accessible to the wider community.
Embedding the framework from the outset has shaped several design and operational decisions. These include co‑locating essential services to create an accessible one‑stop centre, designing shared spaces such as the canteen, restrooms and prayer rooms to reflect diverse cultural backgrounds, and establishing an activity square to encourage interaction with neighbouring residents. The project also prioritises material reuse and shorter supply chains to enhance transparency and accountability while reducing the carbon footprint.
The Bergen Inclusion Centre has been recognised by Design and Architecture Norway (DOGA) as a best‑practice example in its National Roadmap for Smart and Sustainable Cities and Communities. The pilot aims to build a community of practice that shares lessons on human‑rights‑based approaches in the built environment and supports stronger policy development.
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Image source: Bergen Municipality / Bergen Inclusion Centre (© Bergen Kommune)
