Beyond Blueprints - Oslo

OVERVIEW

Discover how two extraordinarily modern buildings have transformed Oslo’s skyline and pushed the boundaries of design. An architectural historian guide will elaborate on the buildings’ advanced technologies and present a rare insider’s perspective of their construction. The iconic Equinor office building consists of five separate rectangular modules stacked on top of each other at different angles, all in an effort to optimize daylight and views. You may also learn fascinating details about how the atrium’s propeller-shaped glass roof was designed to withstand months of extra weight from snow. Similarly, climate conditions influenced the design of the Munchmusset, a 13-story museum dedicated to the works of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. It is constructed with low-carbon concrete and aluminum cladding that reflects harsh sunlight and is cooled with seawater. You will notice that there are no parking spaces to encourage visitors to use public transportation. The top of the building intentionally tips forward as if bowing to Oslo in homage.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow an architectural historian through two cutting-edge buildings for an insider’s perspective.
• Discover how architects overcame the design challenges in a building with five stacked modules.
• Learn the design secrets behind a towering, aluminum-clad art museum.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.