A new era is dawning for Oslo Spektrum. Construction will soon begin on the new congress and cultural venue, set for completion in autumn 2028. The revamped Oslo Spektrum will offer even more experiences and events to look forward to!
In Spring 2023, a broad majority of the Oslo City Council approved plans for the new Oslo Spektrum. Stiftelsen NOVA Spektrum has now signed an agreement with the construction company HENT for the development of the new congress and cultural venue adjacent to the current Oslo Spektrum. The project is scheduled to begin soon, with completion planned for autumn 2028.
Even More to Look Forward To
Many have fond memories of Oslo Spektrum, one of Norway’s largest indoor multi-use arenas. With the addition of the new congress and cultural venue, Oslo Spektrum will offer even more unforgettable experiences:
“Our new congress and cultural venue will give Oslo Spektrum a significant upgrade, allowing us to create and host even more exciting and inspiring events. The expansion will include a new ‘Mini-Spektrum’ beside the existing hall, giving Oslo the mid-sized venue the city currently lacks. With this new stage, we can further expand our concert and cultural offerings with more events tailored to various audience sizes,” says Gunn Helen Hagen, CEO of Stiftelsen NOVA Spektrum.
Stiftelsen NOVA Spektrum has signed an agreement with the construction company HENT for the development of the new Oslo Spektrum. The plans also include more than 1,000 office workspaces to be established in partnership with Aspelin Ramm.
The photo is from the signing of the agreement. From left: CEO of Stiftelsen NOVA Spektrum Gunn Helen Hagen, CEO of HENT Jan K. Jahren, and CEO of Aspelin Ramm Ida Aall Gram. Photo: NOVA Spektrum.
Daily Activities
When the new Oslo Spektrum is completed, the venue will host events year-round.
“- After more than nine years of planning, we’re excited to finally start construction. We look forward to offering Oslo’s residents and visitors even more diverse events. This marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Oslo Spektrum,” says Hagen.
The New Byhallen
The expansion will also open up the façade to the surrounding area with a new ground-level meeting space facing Sonja Henies Plass and Oslo Plaza, named Byhallen. This 800-square-meter space aims to become a destination in its own right.
The new Byhallen will be an attraction in its own right and will be open to everyone.
Illustration: Metropolis and Goldbox.
“Byhallen will be the central meeting place for dining before and after events, and a great spot to gather with friends and colleagues. We envision Byhallen as a space that adapts to the rhythm of Oslo—from quiet breakfasts to evening gatherings after events. It will also serve as a versatile public space open to everyone,” Hagen explains.
Nordic Hub for Major Events
The new venue will accommodate up to 3,000 guests and is expected to help make Oslo the Nordic region’s top choice for national and international event organizers.
“With the new Oslo Spektrum, we’re elevating Oslo to become the Nordic capital for major events and congresses, attracting participants from all over the world. This will have a significant impact on the Oslo region, creating more activity and new jobs,” says Hagen.
With the new Oslo Spektrum, Oslo will become the leading event capital of the Nordics.
Illustration: LPO.
Boosting Oslo’s Vibrancy
Hagen describes the new Oslo Spektrum as the Nordic region’s ultimate meeting place for business, culture, and organizations, estimating that the new congress and cultural venue will double Oslo Spektrum’s current visitor numbers. The new Oslo Spektrum will undoubtedly leave its mark on the city with all the planned events and activities:
“With the new Oslo Spektrum, we are creating more activity in the city center for the enjoyment of all Oslo residents. Increased event tourism will lay the foundation for an even larger and more diverse experience and tourism industry in the region. More shops, restaurants, and attractions will help make the capital an even better city for visitors and for those who already live and work in Oslo,” says Hagen.
Major Upgrade of Sonja Henies Plass
As part of the plans for the new Oslo Spektrum, a major upgrade of Sonja Henies Plass is included. The square will be completely redesigned with improved features and better accessibility. A new subway entrance from Jernbanetorget station will be established, and Byhallen will open up to its surroundings, contributing to a significant revitalization in the heart of Oslo.
“The planned urban renewal of Sonja Henies Plass, together with the new Oslo Spektrum and Byhallen, will help make the heart of Oslo a safe and pleasant place for everyone. We envision a vibrant, resident-friendly city center that makes the capital a great place to live and an inviting destination for all our event guests,” says Hagen.
A major upgrade of Sonja Henies Plass is being carried out in connection with the new Oslo Spektrum.
Illustration: LPO.
Temporary Event Pause
The existing office building adjacent to Oslo Spektrum will be demolished to make way for the new venue. This will result in a temporary event pause from June 19, 2025, to September 1, 2026. However, plans are already in place for holiday concerts and events shortly after reopening.
Oslo’s First New Skyscraper in Over 30 Years
The plans also include a 108.4-meter office tower—the city’s first skyscraper over 100 meters in more than 30 years. The building, co-owned by Stiftelsen NOVA Spektrum and Aspelin Ramm, will feature over 1,000 workspaces and meet high environmental standards, including BREEAM Excellent certification.
The total investment for the new Oslo Spektrum project is estimated at nearly 3.2 billion NOK.
More than 1,000 new office workspaces will be established above Oslo Spektrum in a 108.4-meter high-rise building.
Illustration: LPO.