Diplomprosjekt
Høst 2023
Institutt for arkitektur
Despite being subject to many proposals over the years, Vippetangen and its iconic silo have remained “på vippen” — on the brink of change, but in a state of uncertainty. Located at the very tip of Akersneset, the silo stands out, visible from miles away, and marks the most central point in Oslo’s transforming harbor. Owing to its proximity to Akershus fortress and its central position in the harbor, Vippetangen is a repository of rich historical layers, echoing its military and industrial past. Rather than proposing yet another arbitrary program, this diploma suggests a projection of its rich provenance through architecture, moving forward. How could the views from the silo enable us to trace and preserve the evolution of Oslo’s harbor?
Vippetangen holds a unique position in Oslo’s urban landscape, situated prominently at the tip of Akersneset. It symbolizes both the conclusion of the cityscape against the fjord and serves as the initial point of arrival for those approaching from the fjord’s expanse– the face of Oslo against the fjord, visible from miles away. Its central location within the extensive Oslo harbor, currently undergoing substantial transformation since the early 2000s, places it at the heart of the ongoing urban redevelopment. Due to its proximity to Akershus fortress, historically central to Oslo, Vippetangen has been witness to significant historical changes. From housing a simple“vippefyr” lighthouse to the fortress’s expansion and subsequent growth of the bustling trade harbor, Vippetangen mirrors Oslo’s evolutionary path.
This project seeks to maximize the unique setting of the Vippetangen silo through the creation of an architectural promenade nestled within its structure. The proposed promenade seamlessly merges with the existing harbor promenade, employing elevated walkways reminiscent of the area’s former industrial structures. These walkways not only facilitate pedestrian traffic across cruise lanes but also serve as an avenue for uncovering and immersing oneself in the harbor’s rich narratives. This integration offers both local residents and visitors an engaging and immersive spatial and atmospheric journey through the silo chambers. Each chamber within the silo is meticulously designated to represent a distinct era in Oslo’s harbor history, portraying the chronological shifts in the shoreline. Visitors are enveloped in an experiential journey as they encounter illuminated floor markings delineating historical shorelines. These immersive spaces are further enhanced by projections of photographs and meticulously crafted soundscapes, transporting visitors back in time to the depicted historical periods. As one ascends through the silo, intermittent apertures in the walls tantalize visitors with fleeting glimpses of the surrounding cityscape, hinting at the expansive panorama beyond. Upon reaching the plateau atop the silo chambers, an expansive flat surface unfolds, offering visitors an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the fjord. Positioned on the northern side of the silo, a cantilevered platform extends, providing views of cityscape to the north, and hinting tothe bridge to the first silo, no longer standing. For those compelled to ascendf urther, the silo tower presents a unique vantage point, granting an unparalleled perspective of Oslo— one only possible to view from the silo.
Edvard Alexander Rølvaag / contact@edvardr.com / edvardr.com
This project seeks to maximize the unique setting of the Vippetangen silo through the creation of an architectural promenade nestled within its structure. The proposed promenade seamlessly merges with the existing harbor promenade, employing elevated walkways reminiscent of the area’s former industrial structures. These walkways not only facilitate pedestrian traffic across cruise lanes but also serve as an avenue for uncovering and immersing oneself in the harbor’s rich narratives. This integration offers both local residents and visitors an engaging and immersive spatial and atmospheric journey through the silo chambers. Each chamber within the silo is meticulously designated to represent a distinct era in Oslo’s harbor history, portraying the chronological shifts in the shoreline. Visitors are enveloped in an experiential journey as they encounter illuminated floor markings delineating historical shorelines. These immersive spaces are further enhanced by projections of photographs and meticulously crafted soundscapes, transporting visitors back in time to the depicted historical periods. As one ascends through the silo, intermittent apertures in the walls tantalize visitors with fleeting glimpses of the surrounding cityscape, hinting at the expansive panorama beyond. Upon reaching the plateau atop the silo chambers, an expansive flat surface unfolds, offering visitors an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the fjord. Positioned on the northern side of the silo, a cantilevered platform extends, providing views of cityscape to the north, and hinting tothe bridge to the first silo, no longer standing. For those compelled to ascendf urther, the silo tower presents a unique vantage point, granting an unparalleled perspective of Oslo— one only possible to view from the silo.
Edvard Alexander Rølvaag / contact@edvardr.com / edvardr.com
