The basis for 3XN's proposal "Buen" (The arch) is a green blanket that elevates and makes room for the cultural centre, and thus integrates it in the surrounding scenery. 3XN's proposal comprises a number of houses for both residential and retail use around the cultural centre, adjusted in scale and proportion after the characteristic and classic Norwegian wooden houses. The proposal focuses on making the new town area reflecting the rest of Mandal on the other side of the river. The building turns and twists and gives all the houses including the cultural centre maximum enjoyment of the short distance to the river.