Tukthuskvartalet
From closed-off office quarter to green haven
2024–
Introduction
Taking its name from Christiania Tukthus, a penitentiary established in the 18th century, Tukthuskvartalet holds an important position in Oslo’s history and in the cityscape.
The new urban development project aims to breathe life into a central yet long-underutilized part of the city, and act as an inclusive transformation in the heart of the Norwegian capital.
Technical details
Sparebank 1 Forsikring
Public areas for all
In collaboration with SpareBank 1 Forsikring, Snøhetta has developed a planning initiative for Tukthuskvartalet — a transformative renewal of Storgata 33 and Hammersborggata 9, in the heart of downtown Oslo.
By removing floor slabs to open a grand passage through the building, the plan is to create a thoroughfare and an indoor green space where people can linger without having to buy anything. Public areas offering cultural experiences, coffee shops, dining, a playground and smaller retail shops are included in the ground plan. Offices and housing on the above floors.
Open and inclusive urban space
Tukthuskvartalet's central location and proximity to public transport makes the building an ideal starting point for creating a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood. With new workplaces, homes, and a rich mix of cultural and dining options, the area will be active throughout the day and year-round.
The development will offer amenities for all age groups, and bring life to the city center.
Reinforced green network.
Reinforced cultural corridor.
New passageway.
New urban plaza.
The existing buildings will be preserved and highlighted in their original character, while the high-rise adds something fresh and unique to Oslo’s skyline
Astrid Renata Van Veen, architect at Snøhetta.
Honoring the history of the area
SpareBank 1 Forsikring owns the two buildings that make up the quarter and initiated the competition won by Snøhetta last year.
“With this initiative, we want to make a positive impact on the city and the people who live, move, and work here. Our goal is to create a project that fits seamlessly into this part of Oslo and boosts activity in the area,” says Petter Haugen, Head of Real Estate at SpareBank 1 Forsikring.
“We aim to create a place that honors the area’s history while adding something new and dynamic to Oslo. Tukthuskvartalet will uplift the neighborhood and become a destination for living, working, and gathering — in line with the values and community-building role of the SpareBank 1 banks,” says Haugen.
The proposed design for Tukthuskvartalet includes a high-rise that enhances the city’s character while bringing more life to the streets.
Existing mass:
With challenging subsoil conditions, the existing mass needs to be adjusted
Extracted mass:
Seeking to make only strictly necessary adjustments, the red mass portrayed displays the extracted mass. This mass has the lowest technical quality and is not suitable for transformation.
New mass:
The existing mass will be better utilized by establishing a new volume with its own structural system. As the added mass is smaller, better lighting is ensured while facilitating for more flexible usage.
Potential high-rise:
In the extension of the new mass, Snøhetta proposes a high-rise. The positioning of this new volume is based on soil conditions, sight lines, sun conditions and climate impact, while also considering how it fits with surrounding buildings.