Former US Embassy wins Docomomo 2024 Modernism in America Award of Excellence
A Civic/Institutional Design Award of Excellence is given for the restoration and adaptive reuse of the former U.S. Embassy in Oslo, Norway. This 1959 chancery, designed by Eero Saarinen, is a significant example of postwar Modernist architecture, embodying American values during the Cold War. Saarinen's striking design, particularly the precast concrete facades, was a technological first for Norway. Over decades, the façades had faded and deteriorated. The preservation team treated damaged areas, and the entire surface was buffed by hand, restoring the original sheen. An underground extension and a discreet rooftop addition were added to meet current needs without altering the building’s external appearance. Landmarked interiors, including the atrium and ambassador's office, were restored with sustainable materials while retaining character defining features. The U.S. State Department has been decommissioning and selling off its Modernist embassies, and many are being demolished, gutted or altered beyond recognition. Docomomo US has long advocated for preservation of these buildings, many of which are highly significant. This project is a rare example of an entire embassy building being saved and carefully restored.
Team: Atelier Oslo and Lundhagem (Lead Architects); Erik Langdalen Arkitektkontor and Otero-Pailos Studio (Preservation Architects); LCLA Office and SLA (Landscape Architects); Paulsen & Nilsen (Interior Designers); Bollinger & Grohmann (Engineers)
Photo: Einar Aslaksen
