Architecture taught me how to shape spaces. Art taught me how those spaces make us feel. Today, both perspectives influence everything I create.
Architecture has shaped my life for more than twenty years.
It has been my profession, my education and one of my greatest passions. Throughout my career I’ve founded and led architectural practices in both Sweden and Norway, and for the past fifteen years I’ve owned and led Stav Arkitekter in Stavanger, where many of my completed architectural projects and references have been developed.
Today, I continue as an owner of Stav Arkitekter while gradually building the next chapter through ABE—a creative universe where architecture, art and other creative activities come together.
Throughout my career I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, including private homes, cabins, commercial developments, urban planning, architectural competitions, concept development and interdisciplinary collaboration.
For me, architecture has never been only about designing buildings.
It has always been about understanding people, discovering possibilities and creating places with meaning.
Architecture beyond the drawing board
One of the most meaningful parts of my architectural journey has taken place far beyond Norway.
Over the years I’ve been involved in several architectural and humanitarian projects in East Africa, where architecture becomes a tool for improving everyday life, strengthening local communities and creating opportunities for the future.
These experiences have profoundly influenced both my professional work and my perspective on creativity.
They have reinforced my belief that thoughtful design can create dignity, hope and lasting impact—not only through buildings, but through the people they serve.
More than buildings
Creativity with purpose
Over the past decade I’ve increasingly combined architecture with art.
Through exhibitions, charity auctions and the sale of original paintings, I’ve been able to support humanitarian initiatives and contribute to projects in East Africa. Income from my artwork has helped fund both projects and journeys, allowing me to visit communities, follow up initiatives and continue building meaningful collaborations.
This is a journey I hope to continue through ABE.
To me, architecture and art are not separate disciplines.
They are simply different ways of creating positive change.
House of Hope
Today, the architectural focus within ABE is centred around House of Hope in Tanzania.
This project brings together architecture, creativity and humanitarian work to support children and families through thoughtful design and community development.
House of Hope represents many of the values at the heart of ABE: collaboration, sustainability, compassion and hope.
As the project continues to evolve, I’ll be sharing drawings, illustrations, stories and updates here, offering a glimpse into both the architectural process and the people behind it.
A chapter still being written
The architectural part of ABE is still evolving.
As ABE continues to grow, so will the architectural projects connected to it.
For now, this page is a reflection of my journey as an architect, the experience I’ve built over more than twenty years, and the projects that continue to inspire me today.
More architectural stories, projects and collaborations will naturally become part of the ABE universe in the years to come.
