Finally, we are back in Lofoten to continue the work of creating the community house Fengselet in Kabelvåg. After our previous visit where we had our first test of surplus tables, we have held digital meetings to gain insight into the various needs for upgrades that this place has, which we can contribute to within our budget in Convivium. Our goal is that, with our expertise in designing and using surplus materials, we can provide an upgrade, adding value to the beautiful building so that it can be adapted for more activities and additional surplus tables in the future.

Fengselet in Kabelvåg was built as a detention house in 1856 and was converted into a district prison in 1866. It changed its name to auxiliary prison in 1904 when the state took over its management and was closed down in 1986 after being downgraded to a small prison in 1903. The last prisoner was released in 1978. Today, the buildings house the Volunteer Center and other NGOs. The municipality operates it, and the rooms we are focusing on are the entrance, kitchen, old courtroom, and hallway, with possibilities for better storage.

After several insight meetings and user participation, we had a clear wishlist to work with. There was a significant need to clean up and improve storage solutions, enhance lighting, create wardrobe options for participants, improve the flow in the room regarding seating, and, not least, kitchen equipment such as refrigerators, freezers, fans, and dry storage. This was an ambitious goal, as we only had 5 days in Lofoten this time.

Olaug Storlid is a designer at Circular Ways and has a particular focus on designing with surplus materials from the area we are working in. Just like in preparing for a surplus table, we need to find materials and partners before we can begin designing.

Through our newly established local network, we managed to connect with both volunteers and carpenters who enjoy working with surplus materials, and we gained access to the municipality’s discarded furniture and storage, for which we went on a site visit. Among other things, we found a lovely cupboard and some shelves in a closed school that we could transform into storage benches.

Then it was about finding treasures in thrift stores for better lighting. We also got in touch with a local contractor who provided us with good discounts on the purchase of kitchen equipment.

This is only a preliminary post—stay tuned for the results. What a joy it has been to work with this space!