Grieg Quarter | Henning Larsen

An addition to the existing Grieghallen, initially crafted by the Danish architect Knud Munk, The Grieg Quarter will establish a cultural venue, elevating the city's artistic character while preserving the rich identity of the present building. This represents a collaborative effort to enrich the city's cultural infrastructure, with urban centers investing in initiatives to enhance their appeal and catalyze urban progress.

“With the winning project Kontrapunkt, Grieg Quarter will emerge with an architectural design and functionality that will revitalize Bergen. This innovative design will not only rejuvenate the expansive area adjacent to Grieghallen, but also cultivate a dynamic urban hub. Its visually captivating and inclusive layout, coupled with the Music Theater's exceptional acoustics, will undoubtedly enhance the city's cultural landscape, explains Jury Chair, Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen.

The new concert hall will encourage unrestricted movement, exploration, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. The hall will be built to accommodate 1000 spectators alongside an additional 145 seats extending over the orchestra pit.

Under the northern expanse of Edward Grieg’s Square, new exhibition areas spanning 3570m² will offer a dynamic canvas for cultural exploration and engagement. Integrated into the urban fabric, the foyer will offer dual access points— through the current entrance at Grieghallen’s first floor and a new entryway from Edward Grieg’s Square — forging connections with the city. Along Strømgaten, a sunlit café, complemented by a sheltered outdoor space, will offer an inviting ambiance.

Adjacent to the common areas, will be a versatile rehearsal room, designed not only for rehearsals but also for multifaceted utilization, transforming into a venue for performances, conferences, and events. Featuring dimensions mirroring those of the main stage, 16x16 meters, and furnished with a telescopic amphitheater, the room will accommodate 140 seats.

Architect: Henning Larsen (services: architecture, landscape, urbanism, lighting, sustainability, wind and noise)

Landscape Architect: Henning Larsen

Architect of Record: Charcoal Blue (stage technology), AIX (stage technology), Thornström Brookfield Arkitekter (local architecture)

Engineer: Rambøll (services: structural engineer, MEP engineer, lighting, acoustics, traffic/transportation, wind and noise)

Indigenous Consultant: Schjelderup & Gram (kulturminne)

Renders: KVANT-1