Grorudparken by LINK Landskap, Link Arkitektur, Oslo, Norway Grorud Park is a newly constructed neighborhood park in the periphery of Oslo, Norway. It’s aim is to tie together this part of the city separated from a main road. The atmosphere is wild even though it is situated in the heart of urban center. What makes this place unique and valuable is the thoughtful design and creative solutions used by LINK Landskap, from which everyone could learn. Grorudparken in the city context There are 10 rivers running through the urban body of Oslo. In the past they were considered problematic because of sewage systems as well as were seen as obstacle for efficient use of the land. However, in the recent years, The City of Oslo had shifted attention to preserving its blue-green structures. The main objective is to reopen rivers and streams wherever possible.

Grorudparken by LINK Landskap. Photo credit: Tomasz Majewski
Environmental value of Grorudparken
Undoubtedly, the most precious element of this project is the River Alna which takes the central place in the landscape masterplan. The working team had the challenging task to cope with issues related to flood mitigation, stormwater management and cleansing of runoff from the surrounding neighborhood. Moreover, the adjacent Grorud Dam’s polluted sub-surface was a critical issues throughout the whole design process.

Grorudparken by LINK Landskap. Photo credit: Tomasz Majewski
Cultural value of Grorudparken
The project deals with a historical element of the city. One of the oldest stone arch bridges in Oslo plays a central role in order to create a historic garden within the park. There, the water surface mirrors the surroundings to create a beautiful picture-an instant of old times, where unique lightning collaborate for the maximum aesthetic effect, accessibility, and safety excellence.

Grorudparken by LINK Landskap. Photo credit: Tomasz Majewski
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One would easily think that the park can become a scene of vandalism and crime. It is situated in a natural environment disconnected from the urban grain, it goes under a main road and it can be a little desolated during night time. Accessibility and safety of people were specifically taken into consideration by the working team and were solved through creative outdoor lightning. Several site specific lightning concept were applied, which not only improved safety but created exciting spatial dimensions and contributed to identity of the park. Recreational quality of Grorudparken In fact, Grorudparken is a part of a continuous green space along Alna River, running from the city center to the natural surroundings of the city with numerous waterfalls. Its main purpose is for sports and outdoor recreational activities. For example there are several kilometers of bicycle paths. Grorudparken is designed to be a perfect place for athletics, play and recreation.

Grorudparken by LINK Landskap. Photo credit: Tomasz Majewski

Grorudparken by LINK Landskap. Photo credit: Tomasz Majewski
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