AI Driven Data Centre in Norway

Ardmac was appointed to deliver specialist interior fit-out and fire protection works for the HER01 data centre in Porsgrunn, Norway. Located at Fjordgata 48, Herøya, the facility is a 100MW AI-driven, mission-critical data centre, designed to support high-performance digital infrastructure.  

Working as a specialist contractor, Ardmac delivered a comprehensive interior architectural package including partition systems, fire-rated assemblies, ceiling systems, and doors.  

The project was delivered on a brownfield site, involving the conversion of an existing building into a fully operational data centre environment.  

The Challenge 

The HER01 project required Ardmac to deliver a fully compliant fire-rated environment within an existing structure, introducing several technical and programme challenges: 

• Strict fire compliance requirements, including fire compartmentation and passive fire protection for service penetrations in line with local Norwegian regulations  

• Integration of new systems within a retrofitted (brownfield) building, requiring removal of existing elements and adaptation to structural constraints  

• Structural complexity, including the need for secondary steel to support partition systems and specialist ceiling suspension solutions  

• A highly compressed programme, requiring rapid design, procurement, and installation without compromising quality or safety  

These challenges required a coordinated design-led approach, with careful consideration of constructability, sequencing, and integration with the existing building fabric. 

Ardmac’s Solution 

Design-Led Delivery 

Ardmac adopted a design and build approach, taking responsibility for product selection and system design to ensure compliance with fire regulations and project requirements.  

This included delivering: 

• Fire-rated partition systems up to two-hour fire resistance 

• Passive fire stopping solutions for service penetrations 

• Certified and compliant systems tailored to local regulatory standards  

Off-Site & Modular Approach 

To meet the compressed programme, Ardmac prioritised off-site manufacturing and modular construction methods, enabling faster delivery and improved installation efficiency.  

Key elements included: 

• Panelised white wall partition systems for consistent quality and speed 

• Pre-engineered fire-rated doors with integrated ironmongery 

• Pre-designed secondary steel solutions to enable rapid installation  

This approach ensured predictable programme outcomes while maintaining high-quality finishes. 

Structural Integration 

Working within an existing building, Ardmac developed bespoke structural solutions to support large-span partitions and coordinate with the base structure. Specialist ceiling suspension systems and secondary steel supports were designed to enable safe and efficient installation across the facility. 

Collaborative Delivery 

Ardmac worked closely with the main contractor, and multidisciplinary project teams, including mechanical, electrical, and structural contractors.  

Through early contractor involvement and a BIM-enabled approach, Ardmac: 

• Coordinated design across trades 

• Reduced risk during installation 

• Ensured alignment with operational and programme requirements  

The Outcome 

Ardmac successfully delivered a compliant, high-performance fit-out aligned with the operational needs of a mission-critical data centre environment. 

Key outcomes included: 

• Delivery of fully compliant fire-rated systems, meeting local regulatory requirements 

• Accelerated programme delivery through modular construction and off-site manufacturing 

• Consistency and quality throughout supported by prefabricated systems

• Effective integration within a brownfield facility, overcoming structural and spatial constraints  

The project also demonstrates Ardmac’s capability to: 

• Deliver complex projects in international jurisdictions with varying regulations 

• Provide design-led solutions that support efficient construction 

• Maintain strong performance across safety, quality, and programme KPIs  

In Summary

The HER01 project highlights Ardmac’s expertise in delivering mission-critical data centre environments, combining fire protection, partitioning systems, and off-site manufacturing into an integrated solution. 

By leveraging early design input, modular construction methods, and collaborative delivery, Ardmac successfully transformed an existing structure into a future-ready AI data centre, delivering client requirements of accelerated programme, compliance and performance.