Oslo library Deichman Bjørvika awarded with architecture prize

An evening picture of Oslo's main library, Deichman Bjørvika. The building boasts six floors with literature, reading and study places, stages, a cinema hall and workshops for young and old. Photo: Ørn E. Borgen / NTB

The architects behind the new main library in Oslo, Deichman Bjørvika, have been awarded the Oslo City Architects Prize for 2021.

Oslo mayor Marianne Borgen awarded the prize, which consists of NOK 50,000, a plaque, and a diploma. From a total of 29 registered candidates for this year’s award, 14 received honorable mentions. Still, there was little doubt about who would receive the actual award.

“There is rarely a building in Oslo that so accurately meets all the quality criteria used as a basis for Oslo City’s architecture award,” the jury wrote in the justification.

Lundhagem and Atelier Oslo, landscape architects SLA, and Scenario Interior Architecture Design received the award together with the developer Kultur- og idrettsbygg Oslo KF.

“Oslo’s new main library has become a house for everyone, and the architecture expresses openness and equality. It has become a town hall for the inhabitants, at the same time as the books have been given the prominent place they deserve. The building has a beautiful look, a great wealth of ideas, and has become a strong and clear character in the harbor. The library has become an adventure to visit,” the jury stated.

The Council for Urban Architecture nominates architecture candidates for awards and honorable mention.

Source: ©️ NTB Scanpix / #NorwayTodayTravel

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1 Comment on "Oslo library Deichman Bjørvika awarded with architecture prize"

  1. My profession was and is librarianship, and floor loading is a critical factor in library architecture – books are MUCH heavier than people realize – so I trust there will not be book stacks in that pretentious overhang?

    It may take 10-15 years, but even if there aren’t books or other heavy material in it the stress vectors will make that unsafe if not bring it down. And it’s been awarded. 🙂 Could the award be withdrawn then?

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