Vertikal Nydalen: the secrets of the Norwegian building that stays at the ideal temperature without using energy from the grid

In Oslo, Norway, a striking 18-story building designed to stay heated year-round without grid power has just opened. It is a work that has been designed under what its creators call “triple zero solution”. We are talking about the combination of geothermal wells, photovoltaic panels and a low energy system for both heating and cooling.

Vertikal Nydalen It is made up of two connected mixed-use volumes. On the first floor there will be a restaurant, while the next five floors will have offices. But many people will also live in this building. The upper part is exclusively dedicated to 40 uniquely designed residential apartments, with sizes ranging between 44 and 143 square meters.

Vertikal Nydalen, a peculiar building in Oslo

One of the most notable aspects of the building is the way in which it is kept air-conditioned. Snøhetta, the architectural studio in charge of the project, says that the building benefits from the geothermal wells on which it is built. Water circulates through pipes located behind the clay walls and concrete slabs when necessary to maintain the temperature.

In addition to its thermal properties, designers chose this material for its ability to help control humidity. The design of the building, with pronounced angles, narrow silhouette and conical shape, promises to improve air circulation, favoring pressure changes and, therefore, the comfort of the environment. In addition, dozens of solar panels installed on the roof help this mission.

Snøhetta points out that the “triple zero solution” concept has saved a lot of interior space. This is because the systems traditional ventilation They usually require a lowered ceiling of up to one meter. At Vertikal Nydalen this has not been necessary, simply because there are no ducts or fans. The building also has 43 balconies that do not go unnoticed.

While the façade of the building is characterized by a heat-treated pine wood cladding, the balconies have a steel finish. Over time, as it ages, the exterior of the building will change from brown to gray. There is also a roof terrace with plants that are watered with rainwater stored in containers specifically designed for this purpose.

Vertikal Nydalen does not stand out for its height like the Burj Khalifa. Nor is it lined with mirrors like the Maraya. And it doesn’t pretend to have a huge clock like the Aeternitas Tower. However, it stands out for its innovative design that seeks reduce energy consumption. Furthermore, according to its creators, the building registers 50% less CO2 emissions in materials, transport and energy than an equivalent project.

Images | Snøhetta

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