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Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsWith a community and business mindset that matches Oslo, Norway’s initiative to make the city carbon-neutral, the Akersbakken Housing Association set out to provide a very basic resource, bicycle parking, in an environmentally friendly and visually appealing way.1
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsAt its core, it’s nothing more than a space to park bikes, yet the finished design provides an inviting, safe, accessible space that offers more than function.2
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsAlthough it’s not underground, the Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel appears to be from inside, with surrounding concrete walls that feel a bit like an underground parking garage.3
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsTwenty wood beams uphold the structure, which features a roof that allows in natural light while sheltering the neighborhood from light pollution that would otherwise seep out of the parking area at night.4
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsTo help on the project, the association contacted Don Lawrence Architects with a request to design what is now referred to as the Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel.5
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsIn reality, the structure is built into the hillside for minimal site impact and the benefit of using the existing landscape as support.6
Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel by Don Lawrence ArchitectsFrom the outside, the Akersbakken Bicycle Hotel looks like an extension of the surrounding vegetation, with local grasses, shrubs and wildflowers growing directly on the roof of the bike parking area.7
