Deichman Grünerløkka

Despite its traditional appearance, Grünerløkka Library has foreign origins. The Deichman library director was inspired by Carnegie libraries during a U.S. trip and implemented the concept in Grünerløkka. It became Norway’s first Carnegie-style library. Although a new design was planned for Grünerløkka, original monumental elements of the building were to be maintained. The goal was a balance between the original and revised version; it was time to rethink tradition. In addition, the architectural task was to seamlessly implement universal access items (such as toilets and elevators for differently-abled persons) and also accommodate Norway’s largest collection of comics.

The renewed library should foster active community participation by functioning as a toolbox, both in a practical and a metaphorical sense. The library not only allows people to borrow books and tools, but it will also host workshops, repair parties, exchange market days, provide people with seeds to plant at home and advise them on how to grow their own food. Interior-wise, concrete structural pillars were decorated to look like solid steel structures to add an industrial twist to the original art-deco theme of the interior. Freestanding bookshelves were removed and the traditional bookracks on the wall were re-used. The lighting was also rethought – from plain ambient lighting to intriguing illuminations and an illuminated shelf.

The revised library of Grünerløkka offers cozy lounge corners with vintage furniture that is easy to move or remove, allowing a smooth transition from ‘work mode’ to ‘event mode’. A massive information desk can be transformed into a bar. The first floor holds a workshop space, stage area and a new colorful kids area combining imagination and experience with the ‘interior of a Victorian sci-fi melting pot’. Wall sections with a wave-like construction flow into the room and can be used as a display or to store visitors’  belongings. With a vast array of possibilities for guests of any age, Grünerløkka Library invites locals to use its tools to engage with their community in this inclusive, welcoming third space.