Ettertanken

A Place at the Edge of the World

At the outermost reaches of the Lofoten archipelago lies Røst, a vast expanse of small islands and rocks. Unlike the dramatic peaks of Lofoten, Røst presents a low-lying horizon, offering an unobstructed view of the endless sea. Legend has it that when God created Lofoten, He shook His fingers over Røst, leaving behind an islet or skerry for every day of the year.

Here, light is a spectacle in itself. The midnight sun bathes the landscape in golden hues during summer, while the northern lights dance across the sky in autumn and winter. Even on an ordinary morning, the sunrise ignites the sky with countless shades of red, creating a breathtaking interplay of color and shadow.

The Architecture and History of Ettertanken

Perched atop Lyngvær, Ettertanken stands as a testament to history and transformation. Originally constructed in 1962 as a water tower, it played a crucial role in providing water pressure for the island community. Over time, its function became obsolete, and the structure fell into disrepair. However, renowned physician and social commentator Per Fugelli envisioned a new purpose for the tower—a space for contemplation, discussion, and inspiration. His dream was realized through the dedication of film photographer Martin Otterbeck and master builder Pål Thomassen, who, along with local volunteers and partners, transformed the abandoned tower into a striking landmark. The restoration, completed in 2024, has given new life to the structure, now serving as a writer’s retreat, a lookout point, and a beacon of free expression.

Lighting Design: Enhancing the Experience

The lighting design for Ettertanken was a collaborative effort led by Stokkan Lys, seamlessly integrating modern lighting solutions into the tower’s unique architecture. The tower’s circular shape is accentuated by an internal circular profile light, following the curvature of the space. Externally, an LED profile installed beneath the outer edge creates a floating effect, visually elevating the structure against the darkened sky. Ground-level lighting will soon be introduced to further enhance the tower’s presence from a distance.

All lighting elements are RGBW-based and controlled via Casambi. This system allows for dynamic adjustments, enabling a range of lighting moods to suit different times of the day and events. Additionally, the integration of a GSM router and Casambi Gateway provides remote control capabilities, ensuring flexibility and creative freedom in the tower’s illumination.

A Space for Reflection

Ettertanken is more than just a building; it is a tribute to Per Fugelli’s legacy and a gift to the Røst community. It invites visitors to climb its 68 steps, pause at the top, and take in the panoramic views of the sea and sky. Whether bathed in the glow of the midnight sun or under the soft illumination of carefully designed lighting, it serves as a reminder to slow down and reflect on what truly matters.

As Per Fugelli once said, and as is now inscribed atop Ettertanken: “A good recipe for a good life is to care a little less.”