Arts and Cultures
Whether you're into contemporary art, theatre, ancient sculptures, design classics or heavy metal concerts, Oslo city and Oslo's surrounding region is ready to entertain, teach, inspire and impress you.
The Oslofjord region is a dynamic hub of arts and culture, blending Norway's rich history with contemporary creativity. Spanning Oslo and its surrounding coastal towns, this area offers a diverse cultural scene influenced by maritime traditions, Viking heritage, and modern artistic expressions.
Norwegian crafts, textiles & locally produced design products
Explore the traditions of Norwegian crafts and textiles and discover where you can discover more and purchase bespoke items.
Top museums, galleries & exhibitions to visit in the Oslofjord Region
There are hundreds of attractions across the Oslofjord Region to ignite your curiosity with fascinating exhibitions and displays ready to discover.
Norwegian design and architectural wonders
The Oslofjord region is a fascinating blend of historical and contemporary design, where Viking heritage, medieval fortresses, and cutting-edge modern architecture coexist. From Oslo’s skyline to the charming coastal towns along the fjord, the region showcases a deep respect for nature, sustainability, and functional design.
Oslo's architectural highlights
Our capital is full of beautiful architecture, both old and new.
Modern Architecture & Urban Development
Oslo's Architectural Transformation
In recent decades, Oslo has undergone a dramatic architectural transformation, making it one of Europe's most innovative design capitals. The Barcode Project, a collection of high-rise buildings in Bjørvika, has redefined the citys skyline, combining commercial, residential, and cultural spaces with striking, minimalist aesthetics.
Another highlight is the Oslo Opera House, designed by Snøhetta. Resembling an iceberg rising from the fjord, its sloping marble roof invites visitors to walk up and enjoy panoramic views. The building’s seamless integration with the waterfront reflects Norway’s approach to urban planning—prioritizing public accessibility and harmony with nature.
Nearby, the Deichman Library (Oslo’s main library) is a marvel of sustainable design, featuring innovative lighting, minimal environmental impact, and flexible interior spaces. The new MUNCH Museum, a bold, tilting tower by Spanish firm Estudio Herreros, symbolizes Oslo’s ambition to blend art and architecture in a striking way.
Sustainability & Green Design
Sustainability is a key principle in Norwegian design, and many buildings in the Oslofjord region exemplify eco-friendly innovation. The Powerhouse Brattørkaia in Oslo is one of the world’s most energy-positive buildings, generating more energy than it consumes. Similarly, the waterfront Tjuvholmen district, known for its contemporary apartments and offices, incorporates green roofs, energy-efficient materials, and open public spaces that connect the city with the sea.
Waterfront Redevelopment
The redevelopment of Oslo’s harbor has transformed former industrial areas into cultural and social hubs. Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen now feature cutting-edge residential and commercial buildings designed with Scandinavian minimalism, emphasizing clean lines, natural materials, and open-air public spaces.
The Astrup Fearnley Museum, designed by Renzo Piano, is a striking waterfront gallery with a distinctive sail-like roof. It embodies Norway’s strong relationship with nature by allowing visitors to interact with the water through walking paths and wooden docks integrated into the design.
Historical & Traditional Architecture
Medieval & Viking Heritage
While Oslo is known for its modern skyline, the Oslofjord region is rich in historical architecture. Akershus Fortress, a medieval stronghold overlooking the fjord, is a prime example of Norway’s medieval military architecture. Similarly, the charming town of Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest city, has reconstructed Viking longhouses and ship replicas that showcase traditional Scandinavian wooden craftsmanship.
Nordic Wooden Architecture
Traditional wooden architecture remains an essential part of the Oslofjord region’s identity. The Gol Stave Church, relocated to the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History in Oslo, is an exquisite example of medieval wooden churches with intricate carvings and steeply pitched roofs.
Coastal towns like Drøbak and Fredrikstad’s Old Town are filled with well-preserved wooden houses painted in warm, inviting colors. Fredrikstad, in particular, is Scandinavia’s best-preserved fortress town, with cobbled streets and Renaissance-style buildings dating back to the 17th century.
Design & Interior Trends
Scandinavian Minimalism
The Oslofjord region embodies Scandinavian minimalism in both architecture and interior design. Functional, uncluttered spaces, natural materials (wood, stone, wool), and a strong connection to the surrounding environment define many homes and public buildings.
Norwegian Design Brands
Norway is home to several influential design brands, including Lundhs (natural stone), Vestre (sustainable outdoor furniture), and Heymat (eco-friendly textiles). These brands prioritize simplicity, durability, and environmental responsibility—key characteristics of Nordic design.
Public Spaces & Art Integration
Public spaces in the region often integrate art with design. Ekebergparken Sculpture Park, for example, features international sculptures set in a beautifully designed natural landscape, blending art, architecture, and nature seamlessly.
Conclusion
The Oslofjord region’s architecture and design reflect Norway’s deep-rooted traditions and forward-thinking vision. From Viking-era wooden structures to avant-garde sustainable buildings, the region balances history with modernity, nature with urban development, and function with beauty. Whether through Oslo’s high-rises or the charming wooden towns along the fjord, the area is a testament to the timeless principles of Scandinavian design.