Bærum

The post-industrial area of Hamang in northern Sandvika, the urban centre of Bærum municipality, is about to undergo a fundamental transformation. The E16 highway, currently splitting the area, will be rerouted into a new tunnel, opening up for a new use of this central part of the city.

The competitors were asked to propose a strategy for the development of a carbon neutral area in one of the most central nodes in the Oslo region. The proposals should present a concept for the program, landscape and built volume that give the site a new identity.

The Sandvika river runs through the site and is a carrier of rich biodiversity. There is a focus on integrating the river into the urban fabric and utilize it in a more active manner and at the same time offer protection to the local ecosystem.

The competition seeks to find a strategy for the use of the waterway, including plans for infrastructure as well as new programs for the river and riverbed. Climate change imposes restrictions on the flood-prone areas. An important part of the task is to find suitable programs and infrastructure adaptable to various water levels.

The municipality wants to use the competition to explore the site and city's capacity for growth. At the same time a mix of demography and programs is essential. Who can live here? What can people do here? It's important that the site responds to a regional context, but at the same time develop a local identity, complementing the other areas in Sandvika. The site is part of the program Futurebuilt, which aims for a carbon neutral urban development and competitors are encouraged to show how the ambition of climate neutrality can be met. This includes good strategies for transport, to facilitate people walking, cycling, using public transport and strategies for energy reduction and energy production.