Asker

Peacefully situated in pastoral surroundings just outside of the city, Dikemark was considered the perfect location for Oslo’s new psychiatric hospital at the turn of the 20th century. As its activity related to psychiatric treatment has been phased out over the years, today most of the buildings stand empty and have been listed for protection. Now the entire area needs to be adapted to a new time and filled with new content.

Dikemark is in many ways a unique place within its regional context thanks to its preserved, landmark architecture, its picturesque landscape and its history and identity. Yet, in spite of all its qualities, Dikemark faces a great challenge as its hospital functions will be relocated to Oslo, rendering all buildings empty. 

How to ensure the development of a new and attractive society at Dikemark? There is a strong wish in the municipality to establish a complete and viable society at Dikemark with jobs, private and public services.

Dikemark is a place with a strong identity, first and foremost related to its former use as a psychiatric hospital, but also in its architectural and spatial qualities. The site and its buildings is located in scenic surroundings by the Verkensvannet lake, encircled by forests and fields.

Endowed with its own waterworks, power plant and surrounding farmland, Dikemark Hospital was almost a self-sustained commu- nity. During its heyday, it housed over 900 patients and had a staff of 1500 employees.

For the overall plan competitors are asked to investigate a total development potential between 100 000 and 250 000 sq. m. of residential and mixed-use programs (existing buildings included).

What types of functions can take place there? How to best make new use of the existing buildings?How to bring new life to the area? How to negotiate the issues of memory and preservation along with new use and adaption? Can Dikemark take on a new regional role?

The competition asks for innovative proposals that can open up for new possible futures for Dikemark.