Westerdals School of Communication | Kristin Jarmund Arkitekter

The building is situated at Vulkan - an old industrial area next to Oslo's picturesque Aker's river and popular public space Kuba. Conceived as a “square peg in a square hole”, the footprint of the building volume is smaller than the perimeter of its basement. The glazed gap surrounding the volume at ground floor level creates a dynamic subterranean space. While light is absorbed into this space at daytime it releases likewise at night; thus creating an object which is literally “vibrating” in its own space. Openness, accessibility and visibility are important values for Westerdals. Generous entrances and an open plan on the ground floor invite the public in. Ground floor houses the reception, a small mediatheque, a student café - open to the public with outdoor seating by the Aker’s river - and a multipurpose area fit for exhibitions, parties or informal workstations.