Thesis Statements

A high-rise development, located at Norway’s most important traffic hub in central Oslo, and with fantastic views of the waterfront and fjord-landscape beyond. The idea is to create a landmark sculptural ensemble of towers, yet observe the harmony with the surrounding, low-rise urban fabric of the capital. The three towers of approx. 110, 65 and 55 m height, are arranged along the edges of the site, and the tallest tower is aligned with the existing nearby Oslo Plaza and Postgirobygget towers, while the lower buildings form the link to the city

According to the UN, the planet's population will grow to the level of around eight billion people over the next 25 years. It is estimated that by 2030, there will be a need for 40% more housing and basic infrastructure services than existed in 2005. To meet this need, more than four thousand housing units will need to be constructed every hour, for the next 25 years.

"This Competition sets forth a specific proposition that we wanted architects to think about," said Anand Sen, Living Steel Steering Group Chair. "How will we address this tremendous need for new housing with steel solutions that respond to the unique cultural and social requirements of a given location? Each short-listed firm provided their most creative work, addressing issues like energy conservation, rain water capture, and efficiencies in heating and cooling. Steel is the right material for meeting this housing shortage, particularly in that it facilitates speed of construction and design flexibility to provide durable and comfortable living spaces."