UGent student turns own design into reality during Erasmus in Oslo

What happens when an Erasmus experience goes beyond the classroom?

For Joppe Feyaerts, student Engineer-Architect at UGent, it meant seeing his own design transformed into a built pavilion in northern Sweden.

As part of the design-build studio “Circular Prototyping: Observation Tower” at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, led by Lina Broström and Andrea Pinochet, Joppe and fellow students explored the timber industry’s heritage and future. Their challenge: design and construct an intervention at the former Scharins Söner factory site in Skellefteå, a landscape deeply rooted in wood production.

The result: Lilla Sara, an open structure for observation and gathering, based on Joppe’s original concept. Highlights:

• Commissioned by Skellefteå Municipality as part of a Climate Action Park for Society Expo 2026
• Built from reused timber (Lejonströmsbron bridge) and untreated local core pine
• Realized with local craftsmen, engineers and community partners

Beyond its striking design, Lilla Sara serves as a pilot project, testing untreated core pine for structural and finishing applications in circular construction practices. An inspiring example of how international exchange can lead to tangible innovation.