One of the most important aspects in modern-day architecture is the challenge and the search for opportunities For resolve regulatory aspects in a new and unconventional way. To achieve this goal, architectural firms develop projects based on sustainability and on theenergy efficiency, without losing sight of the aesthetic and functional value of the buildings. In the Nordic countries they have understood this concept perfectly, creating structurally bold, sustainable and efficient buildings. One such example is found at Oslo (Norway), with the project Vertikal Nydalen.
Sustainability and energy efficiency
L’Vertikal Nydalen buildinglocated in the Norwegian capital Oslo, was designed by the local architecture firm Snøhetta and represents ainnovation in sustainable design and energy efficiency. Strategically located near the Akerselva River, in the Nydalen neighborhood, the project consists of two corner towers designed to promote air circulation, providing natural ventilation to minimize energy consumption and also offering a panoramic view of the surroundings.
The corner facades of buildings are designed to create pressure differences that allow air to circulate. Therefore, the air “enters through valves in the facade, which open and close as needed. When you open two windows on different sides of the building, the pressure difference forces the air to move through the room,” explains the Snøhetta studio.
In addition to natural ventilationthe building acquires energy from geothermal wells, photovoltaic panels and from a low consumption system for heating, cooling and ventilation. For all these reasons we speak of a “triple zero solution”, due to its zero energy consumption, which makes the building an example of sustainability.
This system is achieved by leaving the concrete core of the building widely exposed, which allows the circulation of water from geological wells passing through the clay walls and concrete slabs as heating or cooling is required. Thus “the heat absorbed by the concrete walls during the day is released at night and helps to stabilize the temperature of the building. Added to this are the photovoltaic panels on the roof, which power the heat pump that controls the heating and cooling system ”, they explain from the study.
On the other hand, it is expected that the air quality and thermal comfort within the building will be carefully monitored, offering scheduled ventilation that will allow regulation to ensure the well-being of the occupants.
Lightness and public spaces
The building is tall 18 floors. At street level it has restaurants, offices on the top five floors and apartments on the top floors of the tallest tower.
To achieve certain lines of sight and greater lightness, the building “is divided into two volumes of different heights, of which only one part exploits the maximum potential of the 18-storey lot”. The corner steel balconies, clad in pine, add a touch of dynamism to the facade and provide outdoor spaces for residents and workers.
The project also prioritized the creation of a welcoming public “new plaza” around the building, with the aim of creating sunny spaces and pathways to encourage social interaction and outdoor activity.
