MVRDV completes bank headquarters in Oslo

Dutch architects MVRDV has completed a new headquarters for DNB Bank in Oslo, Norway. The design is based on an ideal work group of the bank, a square of 6x6 metres, which informs the small-scale working units in the building and the pixelated exterior facade. In addition to over 2,000 flexible work spaces, the building also provides a 140 seat canteen, an executive lounge, a board room, and a trading room with 250 work stations across 17 storeys. The building is part of the 'Barcode masterplan' next to Oslo Central Station, in which MVRDV was commissioned to concentrate 20 separate DNB offices into one cluster in the 2007. The second building for DNB is designed by Norwegian A-lab and the third building by Dark Arkitekter. The cluster will be finished in May next year.

via BDonline

 

Images: Jiri Havran

Bølgen by MAPT

As you probably know I'm a sucker for all things Scandinavian, and this is no exception. I just wish it had been open when I was in Oslo a few months ago. Danish architects, MAPT, have created a waterside restaurant which features a wave of undulating timber around the facade of the building. The restaurant was completed earlier this year before the partners of MAPT decided to split into two practices; Lendager Arkitekter and Arcgency. 

Images: Dezeen

Opera House Oslo by Snohetta

Below are a few photos of the Opera House in Oslo by Snohetta, which I recently visited. Certainly an icon on Oslo's harbour, the remarkable building acts as both a theatre inside and a platform for public space. Visitors can explore the building by climbing up it's slopes to the roof. One thing I didn't realise until I visited, however, was just how huge the Opera House is; this is an imposing building, making it's mark on Oslo's horizon. 

Images: my own.