Creating urban commons in the heart of Oslo’s new cultural district

Where the urban commons meets the water

Bjørvika’s unique position along Oslo’s harborfront presented various opportunities to create the ideal environment for ‘life between buildings’. Gehl and SLA’s vision incorporated subtle gestures to the landscape, site-specific conditions, and the presence of water. Central to this vision was the activation of a thriving public life in Bjørvika through its seven main public spaces and the concept of a continuous waterfront.

Drawing inspiration from the area’s distinctive landscape and context, Gehl and SLA explored the sensory qualities of water in all its forms — mist, fog, rain, ice, roaring, and splashing — to inspire unique experiences for each public space. Gehl’s continued involvement in Bjørvika expanded to include a series of design guidelines for street and space layout, building facades, urban furniture and lighting.

Today, most of these public space have been realized, forming open pathways from central Oslo through Bjørvika’s numerous new buildings down to the fjord. This has established a distinct identity, seamless connections, and diverse experiences across the entire neighborhood. In 2021, Bjørvika was recognized as a finalist in the City of Oslo’s Architecture Prize for ‘Stasjonsallmenningen’, one of the seven main public spaces in the neighbourhood.

“Bjørvika has become a destination in itself. Today, Bjørvika is a place where people live, work, and experience the waterfront in unique ways. At Hav Eiendom, we have created a space where 40% of the district is dedicated to public spaces, parks, and promenades along the waterfront. Our vision was to cultivate inclusive public spaces that foster a strong sense of community. The success of Bjørvika lies in the careful balance of housing, business, and culture. It is a unique and dynamic urban space that is enjoyed in sub zero temperatures and warm summer days.”

Eirik Oland Nedrelid, Communications Director, Hav Eiendom