Lilletorget 1

In the heart of Oslo, Lilletorget 1 is set to redefine Vaterland with the transformation of the existing building, creating an impact that extends beyond its walls. By forming an inclusive, international, and active space for the local community the project aims to give back to the city.

Project details

Client

ENTRA

Typology

Transformation, Office and HQs, Urban landscapes and vertical greenery

Status

Ongoing

At the intersection of three inner city districts, right at the most important public transport hub, the Vaterland area of Oslo will flourish anew through the transformation and extension of the building at Lilletorget 1 and the Vaterland Park, designed by Danish landscape architects SLA.

Situated within an expansive development area next to Oslo S, Lilletorget is bridging the gap between the modern and historic sections of the city. Currently facing significant social challenges, the area has long been in need of rejuvenation. Our design for the transformation of Lilletorget 1 aims to contribute to the comprehensive development of the Vaterland area, where the building and park activities collaborate to support an inclusive, save and diverse urban space unlocking the area's inherent potential.

Situated in the very center of Oslo, Lilletorget 1 and the Vaterland Park are located in one of the busiest areas of the Norwegian capital. By opening up the park and elevating outdoor areas, we not only aspire to increase the feeling of safety among citizens, visitors and commuters, but the design intends to strengthen the connections between neighborhoods - particularly along the west-east axis of the city.

Central to our vision is a deep commitment to empowering the local community, with a focus on generating employment opportunities and implementing an ambitious public program.

The volumes of the new extension adapts to the architecture and scale of the surrounding urban landscape, the largest facing similar proportions and elevation towards Spektrum and Plaza, and the lower volumes facing the lower buildings of the historical neighborhood towards Stenersgata and Brugata. Vivid-Vision, 2023

"A place to be"

The Vaterland area has long struggled with a lack of identity, a historical void that emerged during the revitalization of the area in the late 1960s with the demolition of the Vaterland school. This sparked public outcry, leading to the formation of the youth movement "A Place to Be" with a longing for an inclusive community. Drawing on the 1960s youth movement, Lilletorget 1 is designed to evolve into a space that fosters inclusivity and hospitality empowering the local community.

To unlock the vast potential in and around the Vaterland Park, the current solution involving truck parking is being relocated into an underground parking facility beneath Lilletorget. The new solution is intended to enhance secure links to neighboring districts and provide a welcoming experience for individuals passing through from various parts of the city.

By exploring the park, visitors have the chance to encounter expansive grass areas, playgrounds, outdoor seating, and local cultural activities. The park will furthermore undergo a revitalization enhancing the area’s biodiversity through physical variation of habitats and vegetation as well as seasonally diverse flora.

The park will undergo a transformation that enhances both the visual and physical connection with the Akerselva river. The relationship between Smalgangen and Grønland is being reinforced, particularly towards Brugata, contributing to the heightened activation of Akerselva.

Lilletorget 1 is one of the few remaining buildings predating the 1960s in the Vaterland area, here photographed with its original facade in 1959. The building will undergo a transformation to evolve into a contemporary and multi-functional neighborhood and office building complex.

Today, the Vaterland Park is fairly small, offering only one way to cross, and the streetscape around Lilletorget 1 is heavily dominated by parking.

In the future, the area will offer many different connections between the different neighborhoods surrounding the Vaterland Park, while the refurbishment and additional space atop the original building at Lilletorget 1 will add social and cultural amenities to the ground floor while accommodating up to 2,000 workspaces.

01/03

A town hall for the citizens

Architectural design encompasses more than just visual appeal and structure; it involves addressing specific challenges for individuals and communities. Lilletorget 1 is therefore carefully designed to meet the city at eye level, with three lower floors welcoming everyone with public spaces and activities that establish an active city centre.

With a focus on street-level interaction with open facades, the design aims to create a seamless blend of office users, visitors, and neighborhood residents. This not only promotes increased collaboration and sustainable use of spaces but also has the potential to strengthen and generate synergies for a more vibrant city life, ultimately enhancing the perceived safety in and around the Vaterland area.

Lilletorget 1 is serving as an urban space accessible to all, providing activities that cater to diverse demographics. By defining varied zones, facilities are established to accommodate everyone, fostering coexistence both indoors and outdoors. The multifunctional building integrates modern office spaces with a capacity of up to 2,000 people. The building is proposed to accommodate both local stakeholders and international tenants and partners.

Vivid-Vision, 2023

Contact

All contacts

Architect

eaah@henninglarsen.com

Lead Design Architect

mahe@henninglarsen.com

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