Capture Common Ground
Bjørvika, Oslo, Norway, Photography house, Competition
Photography is a vital tool for interpreting reality and is one of the most accessible forms of art. The Photography House aims to be a free and dynamic space, mirroring the inclusivity of the Norwegian landscape, where creation, culture, and nature coexist.
Located in Bjørvika's cultural cluster, the Photography House offers a versatile space for exchanging ideas, learning, and connecting with people, culture, and nature. It’s designed as a transparent, elongated structure that links two islands, creating unique spatial experiences from land to sea.
Visitors can swim while viewing art, stumble upon photography courses, and enjoy meals with fjord views. The building’s design ensures a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor activities, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. At night, the reflections from the fjord and the starry sky enhance the visual and sensory experience.
Built primarily from solid wood and concrete, the Photography House incorporates traditional and modern woodworking techniques. The glass facades maintain a connection with the surrounding environment, while materials like Kebonite timber naturally patinate, blending the building into its fjord setting.
All visitor areas are at ground level to promote direct interaction with the landscape and the fjord. The building is designed to be accessible and open, even outside regular hours, for various cultural events. It embodies humility and openness, ensuring it remains common ground for all.
The structure contrasts long perspectives with dense spaces, creating dynamic synergy. Its powerful beams and lattice construction span 45 meters, providing diverse rooms and activities within a larger context on the outer island. The elongated form connects to the cultural landscape, reflecting the life and dedication within.
Spanning 20,000 sqm, the Photography House stands as a common area under the sky in Bjørvika, embracing current movements and offering a unique meeting point for everyone. It is a place where culture, nature, and human life cycles converge, fostering development and growth.
