The Judges Awards

07.4 Oslo

Oslo is finally emerging from the long design shadow left by its illustrious neighbours, Stockholm, Copenhagen and Helsinki. Snøhetta's 2008 Oslo Opera House was merely the first stage in a 225-hectare Bjørvika docklands regeneration project known as Fjord City, which will include a Renzo Piano-designed Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. Meanwhile, gentrification of the district of Grünerløkka has turned it into the city's hot 'hood, full of delis, boutiques, bars, clubs and restaurants. Oslo's setting between a fjord and a national park, and its manageable size, only add to its appeal, while its ecological vision makes it one of the most environmentally friendly capitals in the world.

New architecture: The iconic Holmenkollen ski jump reopened this year

In progress: Deichman Library, by Lund Hagem Arkitekter and Atelier Oslo; Munch Museum, by Herreros Arquitectos; Oslo Central Station, by the Space Group; Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, by Renzo Piano

Art and design scene: Monica Bonvicini's huge, floating, kinetic sculpture, She Lies, was unveiled in the harbour this year. Furniture and product design is booming

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