Architectural Revolution in Oslo

One of the best things about wandering around in great cities like Oslo are the huge buildings. You'll find large roofed brick houses with ornaments and sculptures, telling their own story about days gone by. They are a vital part of the city's history and soul, affecting both residents and visitors alike. There is no doubt that architecture is important for the urban landscape. In recent times, Oslo has experienced large redevelopments when it comes to creating new and astonishing buildings. The result is award winning and renowned pearls, recommended by international press, as well as leading Norwegian design experts. Don't miss these marvelous members of the Oslo skyline:

Any city with respect for itself needs skyscrapers and tall structures. Oslo is no disappointment in this area, and presents to you the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo. The building, made up of facades in mirrored glass, is Northern Europe's tallest and largest hotel. With 37 floors and a unique view of Oslo and the Oslo Fjord, this wonderful building is an attraction on its own. You can take the exterior glass elevator up 110 feet above ground level. You'll be rewarded with the stylish 34 Restaurant & Skybar, making this Oslo hotel a favored destination for both city residents and visiting tourists.

When talking about Oslo and important architecture, you cannot skip the Norwegian Royal Palace placed up on the Bellevue Hill at the end of Oslo's main street, Karl Johan. In addition to being one of the country's most important buildings, this is also a very important to Norwegians, symbolizing the signing of the Constitution in 1814. The Norwegian Royal Family's main residence, undeniably, provides both soul and personality to the capital. The yellow-colored building consists of three wings, built from brick, in a neoclassical style. Naturally, there have been several improvements over the years in order to house the new generation of royals. Constructions began in 1824, but the castle was not inaugurated by King Oscar I until 1849. The building is rich in history, as well as architecture, and is open for visits and tours during the summer.

Oslo Opera House

The Norwegian Opera & Ballet, in Bjørvika, has undeniably received considerable national and international attention. The house was designed by architects at Snøhetta, after winning an architectural competition in 2000. This company is otherwise known for designing the new library in Alexandria. It therefore comes as no surprise that this amazing construction has received many awards since their official opening on 12th April, 2008. The Opera House was, for instance, named the world's best cultural building at the "World Architecture Festival" in Barcelona that same year. The Opera House was protected by the Directorate of Cultural Heritage, in 2012. A status which has helped increase the standards of Norwegian design and has helped to place Oslo on the architectural map. In many ways it was the catalyst for many other further developments.

Barcode

Highly visible from the Opera House rooftop is the Barcode, the latest addition to the Oslo skyline. This strip of high-rise buildings proves that even functional office buildings can be visually attractive. The neat and tight planning of the skyscrapers give the impression of a barcode, hence the name. If you turn your back to the fjord and face west, this is the best angle to see the buildings from. The design is an archaeological instrument, and a great way to make tall buildings blend in visually. Here the buildings are of varying size and width; the highest is 22 stories. The buildings are close together, with little space between each building and offer great views out towards Oslo Fjord. Besides the aforementioned structures, Oslo's many streets were dotted with countless treasures and famous buildings. Sightseeing in the city and surrounding areas is a great visual experience. Visit, for instance, Akershus Fortress, the Parliament or Frogner Manor. For modern architecture experiences, check out Mortensrud Church, The House of Dance, Museum of Architecture, the new Holmenkollen ski jump facilities and Oslo International School. The latter are geographically outside the city borders, but still describe the architectural development in the area over the past twenty years. The changes in Oslo tell us that exciting times are ahead for Norwegian architecture.

See these architectural marvels when you book your stay at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo!