Big Fat Black Granny

What does a “big fat black granny” have to do with architecture? Maybe more than you think At first glance, the words “big fat black granny” might raise a few eyebrows or even a chuckle. But here’s the twist — it’s not about a person at all. It’s about BIG — Bjarke Ingels Group — and how their latest architectural vision is being described with some seriously bold, playful, and unexpected language. Yes, you read that right. The firm behind some of the world’s most daring designs is now being likened to a “big fat black granny.” And no, it’s not an insult — it’s a compliment. So what’s the story behind this unusual nickname? It comes from BIG’s latest project — a striking, monolithic structure that spans across a river in Norway, merging nature and design in a way that feels both monumental and deeply human. The building’s dark, sculptural form is bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore — just like a certain kind of unforgettable matriarch you might know. It’s not just architecture; it’s presence. And that’s where the “big fat black granny” label starts to make sense. The phrase has been floating around in architectural circles as a kind of inside joke, a metaphor for something that’s both imposing and nurturing, both dramatic and deeply rooted in the landscape. BIG’s design for the Randselva River project embodies that idea — a structure that ties a space together, just like a matriarch holds a family together. And while the nickname might raise eyebrows, it’s not meant to be taken literally — it’s a quirky, humanized way to describe a building that’s anything but boring.

Who is BIG, and how did they get so big?

So you’ve probably heard the name BIG — Bjarke Ingels Group — thrown around in architecture and design circles. But how did they go from a small studio to a global powerhouse with over 700 people on their team? Well, it started with a single founder, Bjarke Ingels himself, a Danish architect who had a vision for architecture that was both playful and practical. Over two decades, what began as a one-man operation evolved into a sprawling, multidisciplinary team that now touches everything from city planning to product design.

It wasn’t just about scaling up — it was about thinking differently. BIG didn’t follow the traditional path of architecture firms that stick to one style or approach. Instead, they embraced what they call “hedonistic sustainability” — a way of designing that makes eco-friendly choices feel good, not restrictive. From there, the firm started taking on bigger and more daring projects, each one pushing the boundaries of what architecture could be. And now, with projects in multiple countries and collaborations with engineers, planners, and landscape designers, BIG has become a global force in the design world.

What kind of projects does BIG take on?

So what’s on BIG’s portfolio? It’s a mix of the futuristic, the functional, and the just-plain-fun. They’ve designed buildings that twist into the sky, floating neighborhoods that rise above floodwaters, and even a waste-to-energy plant that doubles as a ski slope. Their work often blurs the line between art and architecture, creating spaces that aren’t just useful — they’re memorable. And that’s part of what makes BIG so unique: they don’t just build structures, they create experiences.

What’s the deal with the “big fat black granny” building?

So, back to the “big fat black granny” — it’s not a real person, but a real building. The nickname comes from BIG’s design for a project spanning the Randselva River in Norway. After studying the site and understanding how people move through the landscape, BIG came up with a solution that’s both simple and powerful: a raw, sculptural building that connects two sides of the river and creates a natural flow for art and movement. It’s not flashy or overly complicated — it’s bold, grounded, and strangely comforting.

But why “big fat black granny”? Because the building stands out — it’s massive, dark, and has a kind of presence that’s hard to ignore. Just like a wise, no-nonsense matriarch who’s seen it all and still holds the family together. The structure isn’t just a bridge or a gallery — it’s a centerpiece, something that gives the whole area a sense of unity. And in a way, that’s what architecture should do: bring people together, create connections, and make a space feel like home.

How does this building connect to the natural landscape?

The Randselva River project wasn’t just about putting up a building — it was about making it feel like it belongs. BIG didn’t want to disrupt the natural flow of the area; instead, they wanted to enhance it. So they designed a structure that flows with the land, using simple materials and a sculptural form that complements the rugged Norwegian terrain. The result? A building that feels like it grew out of the landscape, not something dropped in from somewhere else.

Why is the color of the building so important?

You might be wondering why the building is black. Well, it’s not just a stylistic choice — it’s about blending in and standing out at the same time. The dark color helps the structure absorb the natural light, making it look different depending on the time of day and the weather. It also contrasts beautifully with the greenery and the river, making the whole scene feel more dynamic. So while it might look “big, fat, and black,” that’s exactly the point — it’s a deliberate, thoughtful design decision that adds depth and character to the space.

What’s BIG’s role in the Bhutan airport project?

So BIG isn’t just working on riverfront designs in Norway — they’re also involved in something much bigger: Bhutan’s second international airport. And this isn’t just any airport. It’s part of the Gelephu Mindfulness City masterplan, a visionary project that aims to blend sustainability, spirituality, and smart urban planning. BIG is collaborating with NACO, an aviation engineering firm, to make sure the airport doesn’t just serve as a transportation hub, but also reflects the values of the city it’s part of.

So what does an airport have to do with a “big fat black granny”? Maybe not much, but the underlying idea is the same: design that’s thoughtful, bold, and deeply connected to its environment. The airport isn’t just about efficiency — it’s about creating a space that aligns with Bhutan’s unique approach to development, one that prioritizes well-being and harmony with nature. And that’s exactly the kind of challenge BIG thrives on.

How does BIG approach sustainability in airport design?

So here’s the thing about airports — they’re huge, they use a lot of energy, and they move a lot of people. But BIG isn’t afraid to tackle the challenge of making them sustainable. Instead of treating sustainability as a checklist item, they integrate it into the very core of the design. That means using natural light to reduce energy use, incorporating green spaces into the layout, and designing for efficiency without sacrificing beauty. It’s not just about reducing the carbon footprint — it’s about making the experience of flying more human, more connected, and more in tune with the world around it.

What’s the connection between architecture and mindfulness?

You might be thinking, “mindfulness and architecture?” At first glance, it seems like an odd pairing. But if you think about it, the spaces we live and move through have a huge impact on how we feel. BIG understands this — and that’s why they’re designing spaces that encourage reflection, calm, and connection. Whether it’s through the use of natural materials, the flow of foot traffic, or the integration of green spaces, their designs aim to create environments that support well-being, not just function.

How does BIG’s team work together to create these bold designs?

So here’s the secret sauce behind BIG’s success: collaboration. They don’t just work in silos — they bring together landscape designers, engineers, architects, planners, and product designers, all under one roof. And it’s not just about having different experts in the same room — it’s about fostering a culture where ideas can flow freely and creativity isn’t limited by discipline. The result? Designs that aren’t just technically sound — they’re imaginative, daring, and deeply human.

And it’s not just about the big picture — it’s about the details, too. Every member of the team brings something unique to the table, and when you combine all those talents, you get something more than the sum of its parts. That’s what BIG calls “collective creative genius,” and it’s what allows them to push boundaries and come up with solutions that no one else might think of.

What makes BIG’s approach to teamwork different?

Well, for starters, they don’t treat each project as a solo act. Instead, they build teams that work together from the very beginning — not just architects and engineers, but people who understand sustainability, urban planning, and even the psychology of space. That kind of interdisciplinary approach leads to smarter, more holistic designs. And because everyone’s involved from day one, there’s less back-and-forth and more forward momentum — which means projects get built faster, with fewer surprises along the way.

Why is diversity important in design teams?

So here’s the thing about creativity — it thrives on diversity. And not just diversity in background, but in thinking, experience, and perspective. When you bring together people from different disciplines and cultures, you get ideas that are richer, more nuanced, and more in touch with the real world. That’s why BIG’s team is made up of people from all over the world — because the best design doesn’t come from one point of view, it comes from many.

What’s next for BIG?

So what’s next for a firm that’s already redefined architecture in so many ways? Well, if the past two decades are any indication, the future is going to be big — and probably a little bit bold. BIG has already left its mark on cities around the world, and there’s no sign of them slowing down. From floating neighborhoods to eco-friendly airports, they’re not just designing buildings — they’re designing the future.

And as they continue to grow and evolve, one thing remains clear: BIG isn’t just about making structures — they’re about making connections, telling stories, and creating spaces that feel alive. Whether it’s a “big fat black granny” bridge in Norway or a mindfulness-focused airport in Bhutan, their work is a reminder that architecture can be more than functional — it can be unforgettable.

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