In an increasingly interconnected world, architectural design has the power to transform not only the physical space, but also the social and economic dynamics of a region. Norrsken Kigali House is a clear example of how architecture can be a key tool for economic development. Behind this project is Anton Larsen, alumnus of UIC Barcelona, who, as Principal of MASS Design Group, led the design of the campus, driving business transformation in Rwanda, one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

The vision of a former UIC Barcelona student: Anton Larsen and MASS Design Group

Anton Larsen’s story in Africa began during his final stage at UIC Barcelona, when he had the opportunity to travel to South Africa and work with architect Peter Rich. “I met him in 2010 during a conference at the university, organized by Elena Rocchi. The previous year, Peter had won the World Architecture Festival for the Mapungubwe Interpretation Center, a project that impacted me deeply because of its focus on context, local materials and training of unskilled labour,” Larsen recalls. That summer he collaborated with Rich in the travelling exhibition “Learnt in Translation”, which would later be exhibited at the Venice Biennale 2018. He also worked on a proposal for a Genocide Memorial in Rwanda. “At the end of the summer, Peter offered me a contract to join his studio after my thesis. Shortly after, we moved to Kigali temporarily for a project, but the opportunities continued to appear, and I decided to stay,” he explains. Since then, Larsen has played a key role in the architectural development of the region, leading emblematic projects such as the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA). “Today, as a principal at MASS Design Group and I lead design at the studio in Africa, making sure that each project is not only functional and aesthetically achieved, but also sustainable and transformative for the communities in which we work,” he says.

A space that encourages collaboration and innovation

The Norrsken Kigali House is not just a building, but an engine of change. Its design combines the adaptive reuse of the former École Belge with new spaces designed to encourage collaboration and creativity. “This project is not a series of buildings, but an ecosystem designed for entrepreneurship. It was created with the vision of providing a flexible, collaborative and accessible space for startups, investors and young companies in Africa,” explains Larsen.

The design of the space integrates restored buildings and new constructions with low environmental impact, providing an inspiring environment for the development of innovative ideas. “From the architectural point of view, the design encourages interaction and creativity, with open spaces, natural light and local materials that generate a warm and sustainable atmosphere,” the architect stresses.

For Larsen, this approach is fundamental: “Architecture has a direct impact on the economy, culture and quality of life of a territory. Beyond providing functional spaces, it can foster inclusion, sustainable development and innovation.”

The impact of Norrsken Kigali House in the business ecosystem

The impact of this hub is not measured only in its architectural design, but in its influence on Rwanda’s business ecosystem. “It has attracted entrepreneurs from all over the continent, facilitated the connection with international investors and promoted technological and social innovation,” says Larsen. In addition, its presence has boosted the urban regeneration of the Nyarugenge district, which has become a benchmark for the development of business infrastructure in Africa.

The legacy of Anton Larsen and his imprint on architecture

The work of Anton Larsen and MASS Design Group at Norrsken Kigali House is a testament to the impact of training at UIC Barcelona and the ability of architecture to transform communities. “One of the most valuable lessons I learned in my early projects was the importance of listening before designing. Instead of imposing ‘imported’ solutions, the challenge is to translate local needs into culturally relevant and sustainable architectural responses,” Larsen concludes.

Norrsken Kigali House is a definitive example of how collaboration and innovation can change a region. And Anton Larsen’s legacy shows that architecture can be a powerful tool for social and economic change and inspire future projects around the world.

📷 Photos by Chris Schwagga