National Academy of the Arts

 

Location

Bergen, NO

Client

Statsbygg for the Royal Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research

Summary

Art academy for visual art and design

Area

17 500 m²

Cost

£28 000 000

Date

Competition 2005 - 2nd prize

Description

The building’s distinct form defines the western edge of a new civic plaza. The glazed ground level allows views into the lobby and the hillside beyond. When the weather permits, large sections of the glass enclosure can be opened connecting lobby with the plaza and hillside. The plaza’s surface is robust and slopes gently. It is conceived as a large working yard for the school.
 

A distinct interior environment vertically zoned in two characterizes the new academy. The public lobby is in essence a mixing chamber for the citizens of Bergen and the school. Above, overlapping floorplates contain a mosaic of different facilities for the creation of art. The public lobby and the student areas are visually linked, yet programmatically separate. The two vary in character, the public lobby is largely open, while those activities above are selectively revealing.