Nordic was one of three teams competing to design Lysaker station on the new metro line called “Fornebubanen”, stretching from central Oslo to the peninsula of Fornebu in Bærum.

As a public transportation hub, the main goal for Lysaker is to facilitate easy transfer between metro, train, and bus for thousands of people travelling through daily. Our proposal focused on bringing all the various means of transportation together in the same square to minimise walking distances and increase transfer efficiency. We suggested alternative entrances for the metro station to better connect with the train station and make wayfinding easier for passengers.

To create a calm oasis around the busy transport hub, we suggested surrounding the station with green areas and connecting it to the Lysaker river. This will enhance the presence of the historical buildings facing the urban square towards the northeast, adding further cultural qualities to the development.

Two cuttings into the ground define the main entrances to the metro station. One is raised from the terrain to form a pavilion welcoming transferring passengers from the public transport square. The other descends towards the platforms from the east and is accessible to pedestrians and cyclists.

The pavilion has a light and airy character with a copper ceiling reflecting light down to the platforms below. The copper brings a timeless quality to the station, inspired by the colour palette in the historical red and orange brick buildings nearby.

Below ground is the ticket and information centre, as well as a kiosk, bicycle parking and access to lifts and escalators. The positioning of lifts and escalators helps to distribute the passengers evenly along the platforms, making room for circulation and fixed furniture.

Opening up for daylight passing through all the way down to the platform area adds unique qualities for a metro station, as well as making wayfinding easier and more intuitive.

Daylight combined with artificial lighting will provide a welcoming environment for passengers arriving at all times of the day. The lighting is fine-tuned according to time of day and weather conditions, making the transition between outside and inside a pleasant experience.