Romsås kulturhus
2024.11.01 13:11
A rundown community building has been upgraded focusing on social sustainability and reuse.
Developer
Oslo kommune
Municipality
Oslo
Architect
Lala Tøyen and Snøhetta
Status
Completed (2024)
Costs and funding
Funded with support from the Groruddal Initiative and the Sparebank Foundation
Project description
Social sustainability is one of the mandatory criteria in FutureBuilt. Although the refurbishment of Romsås Cultural Centre does not meet all of FutureBuilt’s requirements, the project is highly relevant, as many similar venues are in need of revitalization. The project therefore has strong potential for transferability.
Romsås, located on the outskirts of Oslo, has faced social challenges for many years and has the lowest quality-of-life indicators in the entire Groruddalen area. Public participation carried out as part of this project revealed a strong need for a versatile community space that can host a wide range of activities. The input resulted in an extensive list of suggestions — from children’s discos and yoga sessions to adult homework support and computer courses.
The new Romsås Cultural Centre covers 430 square meters and features a stage, meeting rooms, a spacious kitchen, coworking areas, activity rooms and a reception. On weekdays the centre will be open and staffed by a coordinator. In the evenings and on weekends, the space can be rented.
With its new glass facades and improved lighting, the building is designed to feel open and safe, encouraging visibility and natural social interaction. Flexible folding walls and doors connect the interior with the surrounding area, inviting people in and creating a sense of inclusion and community. Conveniently located near the metro, the centre aims to become a vibrant hub for local life at Romsås.
Beyond being a venue for culinary experiences, art, and culture, the centre is also envisioned as a place where people can shape their own opportunities. In partnership with the neighbourhood incubator Romsås Unlimited, local pioneers can develop social enterprises that create meaningful, community-based change.
The building was created in partnership with the people of Romsås, in collaboration with the Area Development Programme in the borough of Grorud, Boligbygg Oslo KF, Lala Tøyen, Snøhetta and FutureBuilt. The borough will act as a supporter, ensuring fair access to the space and connecting people within the community.
Translated with the help of Chat GPT.