BEWI helps bring The Whale to life in the harsh northern climate

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Terra XPS insulation

The landmark experience centre combines distinctive architecture with recycled insulation

The Whale is taking shape on Andøya in northern Norway. Inspired by the surrounding landscape and marine life, the experience centre will offer visitors a unique encounter with the whales that return to the fjords.

The building’s curved roof, steep surfaces and exposed coastal location place high demands on materials and technical solutions. Terra XPS insulation from BEWI provides the strength, moisture resistance and long-term insulation properties required for the roof, while reducing CO₂ emissions by an estimated 20 to 40 tonnes compared with alternative materials.

The Whale in Andøya, Norway, with Terra XPS from BEWI for roof insulation

A roof designed for demanding conditions

The building is shaped like a diving whale, making the roof central to its architectural expression. At the same time, it must withstand heavy rainfall, strong winds and considerable temperature variations.

“The Whale is unlike most projects we work on. The curved shape, steep surfaces, heavy asphalt roof and exposed coastal location create a highly demanding roofing structure,” say Thorstein Risan and Ole Suul from Norgestak.

Norgestak, responsible for the roofing, selected Terra XPS from BEWI, made with at least 55 per cent recycled material. Its low water absorption and high compressive strength make it suitable for structures exposed to moisture and demanding loads.

Reducing the project’s environmental impact

Compared with alternative materials, the use of Terra XPS is estimated to reduce CO₂ emissions by between 20 and 40 tonnes, depending on the alternative used for comparison.

“We focus on building materials that retain their properties over time and in harsh weather. Being able to use a solution containing recycled material also makes it easier for us to make climate-conscious choices,” says Roger Pettersen, project manager for the construction of The Whale.

The Whale - Dorte Mandrup AS Illustration by Mir, Bergen

Adapting to a complex construction site

Norgestak had detailed requirements throughout the process, such as environmental documentation and construction-site logistics.

“Our role is to understand the customer’s needs and help find the right solution, from insulation calculations and environmental documentation to ensuring deliveries arrive at the right time,” says Eivind Olsen, key account manager for roofing at BEWI Insulation Norway.

When The Whale opens in June 2027, visitors will experience a building designed to become part of the surrounding landscape. Beneath its characteristic roof is an insulation solution selected to retain its properties in one of Norway’s most demanding coastal environments.