In the heart of Oslo, Norway, Snøhetta has unveiled Vertikal Nydalen, a groundbreaking mixed-use building that redefines sustainable architecture. This innovative project serves as a vibrant town square for the revitalized Nydalen district and sets a new standard for net-zero energy usage in urban development. From its simplified climate system to its natural ventilation design, Vertikal Nydalen stands as a testament to Snøhetta's commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.
Net-Zero Energy Usage
Officially opened on April 25th, 2024, Vertikal Nydalen is a fusion of functionality and eco-consciousness. Spanning restaurants, office spaces, and residential apartments, the building represents a triple-zero solution, achieving net-zero energy use for heating, cooling, and ventilation. This feat is made possible through a sophisticated combination of geothermal wells, photovoltaic panels, and a low-energy heating and cooling system, culminating in a more than 50% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to standard buildings.
At the core of Vertikal Nydalen's sustainable urbanism is its legacy of natural ventilation. Unlike vertical office buildings that use the fan system to pull or blow the air through massive and vertical ducts, angled facades that bring the air in and move it vertically inside the building are used at Vertikal Nydalen. Thumbs through the openings in the facade according to the set valve points provide such a high level of integration that heats and cools up to the necessary level. Still, energy costs remain lower, and occupants stay comfortable. These modifications are responsible for improved environmental competence, a healthier indoor environment, and a more spacious, pleasant space inside the building.
"We are happy to display Vertikal Nydalen and the design innovation that gives a unique balance between the natural ventilation, low energy consumption, and multi-use functionality," said Kjetil Trædal Thorsen, the founding partner of Snøhetta. We believe that this tree planting project shows our dedication to uniting, challenging the confines of standard design methodology, questioning some of the regulations that exist both at the local and national levels, and making it possible for sustainable development.
Sustainable orientation is not the only gasp in the interior design of the building. On the contrary, it mirrors the desire to create a space of harmony and functionality. A mix of exposed concrete elements, such as heat mass, contributes to the matte finish of the facade, which is made more welcoming by the heat-treated pine cladding. Through steel-published balconies and massive glass windows, the project manages to achieve visual differences. The balconies reflect the modern culture while the enormous windows take natural light, granting the inhabitants views from their outskirts to Oslo fjord.
In conclusion, the Vertikal Nydalen by Snøhetta denotes a change from the original sustainable architecture approach. It shows that achieving eco-friendly design in combination with functionality and aesthetic appeal is possible. As cities all around the globe, in one way or another, seek to solve the problems of climate change and urbanization, developments like the project Vertikal Nydalen are a source of positivity, and they hope many young architects and builders undertake their work prioritizing sustainability.
