Om Ratio

Architecture is, at its core, about creating meaningful spaces for people — places that support everyday life, inspire activity, and strengthen connection. For us, every project begins with the people who will live with, use, and experience the building. Their needs, aspirations, and perspectives guide our work from day one.

We carry this people-first approach throughout the entire design process. It shapes every stage — from the overarching concept to the smallest detail, from the first sketch to the finished building. With care, curiosity, and collaboration, we aim to create spaces that feel right, work well, and genuinely enrich the lives of those who use them.

Our design process is built on close dialogue with clients and users, and on open, inclusive, and trust‑based collaboration between everyone involved — from the first idea to the final detail. This approach allows us to create buildings that are truly unique, shaped by the needs, insights, and ambitions of each project.

We recognize that the environment has limits, and that the climate is out of balance. Our ambition is to contribute to a more sustainable future by designing buildings with smart energy solutions, healthy indoor environments, and environmentally responsible materials.

With care for everyday life
At RATIO, we design with people at the center. We take pride in shaping the framework of daily life — finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Spaces that enrich
We aim to create buildings that elevate life, whether through quiet daily moments or major events.

Driven by curiosity
Every project begins with openness and exploration. Innovation starts with ideas — just as a single housing detail once helped shape Norway’s passive house standard. We continue to develop the solutions of tomorrow.

Knowledge as our foundation
We manage significant resources and take that responsibility seriously. Our decisions are grounded in shared expertise, strengthened by the collective’s talent and insight.

Excellence through exploration
RATIO combines technical skill with creativity, fueled by a desire to investigate and challenge. With passion for our craft, we dig deep to find the best solutions.

Collaboration at scale
We often work in large, interdisciplinary teams because the tasks demand it. This has given us a profound understanding of our role within a larger whole — and a deep respect for the needs of all contributors.

Architecture the planet can afford
We create architecture that society and the planet can sustain. Economic, social, and environmental considerations can and should reinforce each other.

Ratio Arkitekter AS is the result of a merger between the former Medplan AS Arkitekter and BGO Arkitekter AS.

BGO was established as a limited company in 1984 and carried out projects across a broad professional spectrum, including housing, care facilities, public buildings, commercial buildings, cultural buildings, and rehabilitation projects.

Medplan was founded in 1991 following its first‑prize win in the architectural competition for the New Rikshospitalet. The office developed extensive experience with major hospital projects as well as cultural, research, and educational buildings.

The two offices collaborated for many years on several projects—particularly within the cultural sector—and distinguished themselves in numerous architectural competitions. After more than a decade of close cooperation, the companies formalised their partnership and merged in 2010.

Ratio Arkitekter AS is one of Norway’s most experienced architectural practices within public-sector projects, including buildings for education, healthcare, research, and culture. Today, Ratio comprises more than 77 dedicated professionals: architects, interior architects, structural engineers, BIM specialists, and administrative staff.

We develop our projects through collaborative, creative team structures, where staff follow the project from early concept to completion. Several of our team members are experienced design managers, with expertise ranging from complex, large‑scale developments to smaller buildings. Many of our commissions have been secured through planning and design competitions.

Over the years, we have built substantial competence in the architectural design of complex buildings, programming and user‑involvement processes, interdisciplinary design management, and sustainable design.

Ratio Arkitekter AS is a limited company.