Oslo Opera House

The proposal was awarded second prize in the open, international competition for the new opera house in Oslo.

In order to emphasize the site’s unique location, the opera house is placed entirely in the fjord, an island of rock in the water with bridge access from three sides.

The building form is inspired by a nested Chinese box – a ‘house in a house’ – where the numerous secondary functions encircle the building’s working heart: the auditorium and scene.

The façade is clad with grey slate shingles, inspired by sheer rock cliffs, with façade projections of copper. Niches of glass and large window partitions spread a variegated light to the inner spaces and provide views from the deep interior to the fjord and city.