Høyblokken

Location Oslo, Norway
Area14.300 m²
Construction cost2 bn NOK

Project details

Year2021 — 2025
StatusCompleted
Partners Aas-Jakobsen
Asplan Viak
Bjørbekk & Lindheim
Cowi
I-d. Interiørarkitektur & design
Rambøll
Scenario
SLA
Client The Norwegian Directorate of Public Construction and Property / Statsbygg
Enquiries Liv Aimée Halvorsen
Scope Rehabilitation

Høyblokken is a symbol of Norwegian democracy and resilience. First completed in 1958, this modernist icon stood as a testament to social progress and openness. Today, we are giving it new life, transforming it into a secure, sustainable, and inspiring workplace for the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, while preserving its cultural and architectural heritage.

A building that shaped Oslo

Located in the heart of Oslo’s government quarter, Høyblokken has long defined the city’s skyline. When it was built, its 16-storey silhouette towered above the rooftops, embodying the ideals of functionality and light championed by architect Erling Viksjø.

The building introduced natural concrete, a material that allowed art to be integrated into architecture. Sandblasted works by Picasso, Inger Sitter, and Carl Nesjar still grace its walls, making Høyblokken a true “gesamtkunstwerk.”

Høyblokken’s interiors have been carefully restored with contemporary details, with a Picasso mural visible beyond the lift lobby.

Respecting the past, designing for the future

In 1990, Høyblokken was raised by two additional floors, losing its distinctive roof profile and the unified expression that had defined its original design. As part of the rehabilitation, these later additions have been removed, restoring the building’s authentic silhouette and architectural integrity, including reinstating the original rooftop pavilions.

The east–west passage through the ground floor will reopen, reconnecting the city and reinforcing openness.

After the 22 July attack, the building’s symbolic value only deepened. Riksantikvaren called it “one of the finest examples of monumental modernism in Norwegian architecture history.” Preserving this legacy while adapting to contemporary needs has been our guiding principle.

“We balance memory and modernity, honouring the building’s soul while making it fit for the future.” Liv Aimée Halvorsen, Project Leader

Sustainability and Craftsmanship

Environmental responsibility is central to this transformation. Original materials such as teak and natural concrete are carefully restored and reused. New timber details replacing the broken parts are made of oak and finished in teak-coloured varnish.

Facades are reconstructed to maintain their historic expression while improving energy performance and eliminating thermal bridges. The roof and technical systems are upgraded to meet today’s standards, and daylight control solutions reduce energy consumption.

A highlight of this meticulous work is the recreation of Birger Dahl’s original lamps, which were awarded the Norsk Lyspris 2025 for Best Technical Solution/Product. These luminaires combine heritage with innovation, meeting BREEAM Excellent and universal design standards.

“Recreating the 1958 luminaires with modern technology has been a labour of respect for the building’s heritage and a commitment to quality for the future" Liv Aimée Halvorsen, Project Leader

The most prestigious meeting room at the top of Høyblokken combines original character with carefully restored finishes, providing a dignified setting for high‑level governmental discussions.

Spaces for People

Inside, Høyblokken becomes a modern, flexible workplace designed for collaboration and comfort. Activity-based layouts, improved acoustics, and generous daylight create an environment that supports productivity and wellbeing. Public areas and the 22 July Centre offer spaces for reflection and dialogue, reinforcing the building’s role as a place of collective memory and civic engagement.