Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter, together with our client OSU, are proud to reveal the plans for the latest property development project in Bjørvika, Oslo: Kongsbrygga.
This ambitious project envisions seven distinct buildings elegantly positioned on the wharf's edge, with the scenic fjord interwoven between them. Being the last piece of the Bispevika urban development, the project's expected completion in 2028, will seamlessly unify and connect Sørenga with the rest of Bjørvika, through a continuous Harbor Promenade.
Located on plot B9 in Bjørvika, Kongsbrygga is named after a significant pier construction from the 13th century, discovered during archaeological excavations by NIKU in the early 1990s – and marks the final plot along Bispevika’s fjord edge.
Together with our client Oslo S Utvikling and collaborators Grindaker Landscape Architects and Leonard Design Architects for the commercial areas, we have created an architectural proposal that adapts to the sun conditions on this central site close to the sea. Anchored in Oslo’s social, cultural, and historical structures, we have developed a project that unites the Norwegian capital’s diversity of spaces and architectural traditions with today’s housing requirements. The design aims to create a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood focused on high-quality and timeless architecture that harmonizes with its surroundings and landscape.
The volumes are thoughtfully designed, gradually stepping down towards the fjord and with integrated roof structure. The streamlined geometry results in cleaner lines from an aesthetic perspective as well as improved panoramic views and light conditions within the project. The buildings meet the fjord in an elegant way and in several places, stairs lead down to the water, and canals between the buildings are reminiscent of Venice.
The development will feature approximately 120 apartments and commercial spaces across seven independent brick-clad buildings. Residents will enjoy a mix of apartment types, including those with fjord views, sheltered balconies, and terraces. All featuring high-standard interiors and common areas. Shared roof terraces will offer stunning views and communal spaces for both indoor and outdoor activities.
The constructions will be clad in brick in a format with roots in Kvadraturen - with ornamentation, archways and different types of windows and balconies, giving each volume its unique character. The project has a rich architectural idiom and variety with good materiality and fine details, aiming to celebrate the beauty of the city. The buildings entrances will be monumental and inviting, residents should walk through a beautiful door to where they live.
Thanks to a fruitful dialogue with the Department of Planning and Building during the development of the project, it is designed for the benefit of both residents and visitors.
All ground floors will host commercial premises, ranging from shops to restaurants, with sheltered pedestrian streets leading to large open meeting spaces. In hopes of creating a cohesive neighborhood with a rich quality of life, the design features close contact between the buildings and the fjord, complemented by open squares and intimate zones.
The design of the harbor promenade and inter-building spaces, incorporating vibrant colors and organic patterns inspired by the Oslo Fjord's fauna and flora, is the promise of a unique and attractive outdoor area for Oslo. It will allow residents and visitors alike to enjoy the recreative area and experience a sense of community and connectivity. Additionally, a 300-square-meter artificial floating island will be a distinctive feature of the new district, offering an exciting oasis in the Oslofjord.
Distinguished by the principles of site-adapted architecture and respect for the historical and environmental context, this project intends to establish a new benchmark for urban living in Oslo.
