The former Verket School in Folldal is getting a fresh, modern makeover! Located near the famous Rondane National Park, the project will transform the old building into 14 new apartments, available for both purchase and rental. Residents will enjoy access to generous shared spaces, and the ground floor will house a bakery, a shared hall for the residents, and a creative reuse workshop!
Rather than tearing down the old school near Folldal's center, the building will be repurposed; a sustainable and cost-effective decision that also preserves its historical significance. Elements of the playful school interior will be carried forward into this new chapter.
Surrounded by majestic pine trees on sloping terrain, the building is a place with stunning views.
The school building has many great characteristics that will be preserved. The former classrooms feature high ceilings and large windows, flooding the spaces with natural light.
Diverse Housing Options and Vibrant Ground-Floor Spaces
Spanning an impressive 2 600 square meters, the building will accommodate various types of apartments, from compact 35 m² one-bedrooms to spacious 117 m² units with three bedrooms. There will also be shared guest rooms and ample basement storage. Outside, the huge 16-acre property provides plenty of space outdoors -ideal for nature enthusiasts, of course- while remaining close to shops, schools, childcare, and other services in the village center.
The ground floor will be buzzing with activity from time to time. Fancy fresh-baked bread? The on-site bakery has you covered. The Volunteer Center in Folldal will also be based here, hosting a range of activities. Expect flexible creative workshops, flea markets, and spaces for language cafés, baby meetups, and senior gatherings.
A Balance of Privacy and Community
For those seeking tranquility, the residential area has its own dedicated entrance, allowing residents to choose when to socialize and when to retreat into the peace of their own home.
So what happens next in order to realize the project?
-We received funding from Husbanken, first for a feasibility study and then for a preliminary project. After that, we can invite property developers to take on a comprehensive project. The preliminary project is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025, and we hope to welcome residents by 2027 or 2028, says Bjørn Skjervold, municipal business developer.
-An encouraging side effect is that this will hopefully lead to more housing becoming available outside the town center, benefiting both current and new residents of Folldal, he concludes.
Want to know more about the project? Contact Folldal Municipality's business developer, Bjørn Skjervold, for more details - bjorn.skjervold@folldal.kommune.no.