The Material Bank for Building Preservation -
A Treasure Trove for Reuse and Sustainability
In the scenic town of Vanse, just outside Farsund, you'll find the Material Bank for Building Preservation—a circular hub where construction materials, interiors, and furnishings that would otherwise be discarded are instead stored, sorted, and offered for reuse in new projects. Visit every Saturday to discover hidden treasures!
In an era where sustainable construction is becoming increasingly important, the Material Bank stands as a vital resource for the preservation and restoration of buildings. The Material Bank offers a unique selection of historic building materials and objects that contribute to safeguarding Norwegian architectural traditions and cultural heritage. By promoting the reuse and recycling of old materials, as well as serving as a gathering place for those dedicated to restoring historic buildings in an authentic and sustainable manner, the Material Bank has created something truly special in Vanse.
Here, builders, artists, designers, and private individuals come together to find inspiration—or specific materials—for new projects. Everything from reclaimed doors and windows to timber and steel that would otherwise end up as waste can be found here.
This innovative initiative, led by project managers Joakim Gitlestad and Erik Bjørndal, aims to reduce waste and build a more sustainable future—perfect for those looking to combine travel with a greener lifestyle.
Here, you can explore a wide range of reclaimed materials and hear stories of how they’ve been transformed into modern, functional, and aesthetically beautiful products. It’s a hands-on and educational experience that showcases how architecture and design can embrace a circular mindset.
Farsund and Lista are renowned for their breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The area offers several sustainable travel destinations that prioritize both the environment and local communities.
A Living Museum
The Material Bank for Building Preservation is much more than just a marketplace for reclaimed materials. It feels like stepping into a small village, with individual "shops" dedicated to various treasures. Each shop is a time capsule, brimming with intriguing still lifes and exhibits. Every material has a story—perhaps a door that once adorned a grand estate or a window that framed the view of a Southern Norwegian skipper's house.
But the passion for reuse demonstrated by Gitlestad and Bjørndal doesn’t stop there. They’ve transformed large parts of the main house into an actual museum. "People come here and see how we care for these items. Then they donate old furniture, books, trinkets, and so much more. Later, they return to check on the things they’ve contributed and visit the old rooms," Gitlestad explains.
Coffee and History
The Material Bank for Building Preservation at Lista offers more than just reclaimed materials and inspiration—it also invites you to enjoy a cup of coffee and a freshly baked waffle in its cozy café. Originally conceived as a simple idea to provide visitors with something warm to drink while browsing, the café has grown into a gathering place with a unique atmosphere.
Designed with reuse at its core, the café's furnishings and materials each tell their own story. The floor, crafted from Burmese teak cut into small pieces, is a true eye-catcher, and everything in the space—apart from the lighting—has been given a second life through creative efforts. Local students have also left their mark, contributing through hands-on work that gives them a sense of achievement while teaching them the value of trial and error.
Here, you can sit down to connect with others who share a passion for building preservation and restoration or simply soak in the details surrounding you. It’s a café that serves not just coffee, but also inspiration—perfect for a reflective pause on a journey through history.
Inside the café, every item tells an intriguing story. You can relax with a cup of coffee, but you can also rent the space for clubs and associations.
The café regularly hosts school visits where students learn about sustainability, reuse, and craftsmanship. Guided tours of the area are also available.
Erik also proudly shows off a door in the café where guests write their names, leaving a part of themselves in the history of the place.
Treasure Hunt on a Saturday
With its focus on sustainable development, collaboration with youth and local communities, and a unique ability to create a holistic experience, the Material Bank is an exciting attraction in Vanse that inspires both locally and nationally. So, next time you’re in the area, stop by to find a treasure, learn something new, or simply experience the magic of reuse in practice.
If you’re on the lookout for materials for a restoration or other creative projects, the Material Bank in Farsund is the place for you, open every Saturday. Combine your visit with other delightful activities in Lista and Vanse for a truly memorable treasure hunt weekend!