Seclusion and salvation define our design concept for Munch Island, embodying both the dignity of Edvard Munch and the city of Oslo. The museum’s prominent site is on an island that resembles a single slab of rock, horizontally split in two. The space between the two elements forms a plateauing landscape. Crossing the bridge from the city to the island provides views to the atrium and surrounding water.

The use of slate and timbre give the museum a timeless material palette with contrasting bright ceilings that reflect light and water deep into the building. Slate cladding with subtle variations of thickness, glimmer and hue gives the facade a unique expression and a sense of pride – this traditional Norwegian building material is used throughout the entire country.