Oslo Revitalization Areas as an Example of Striving for Good Quality of Urban Environment

Abstract

The revitalization of post-industrial spaces in Oslo has greatly changed the panorama of the city, highlighting the network of intermingling green areas creating the green infrastructure of the urban area. The natural barrier - the River Akerselva emphasized by factory buildings during the industrial revolution, became an example of the green axis of the city, a space designed for sports and recreation. The research objective was to use a case study method to describe and categorize the redeveloped areas of the city of Oslo in proximity of the Akerselva River in order to observe and understand the tendencies in urban redevelopment. Currently, the area along Akerselva is an example of careful and thoughtful care for the monuments of industrial culture that supports surrounding residential and commercial spaces located on both sides of the river. There are modern non-industrial functions introduced within the former warehouse complexes to satisfy contemporary demands of the inhabitants of the capitol city of Norway. Abandoned buildings obtained a life after life and today they are becoming the spots of creative ideas, centers of design and favorite places of meetings and recreation, which became evident due to the proximity of water, beautiful greenery and picturesque landscape. The result of the research is the finding that the green axis introduced into the city structure complements the redeveloped areas of various use and by its accessibility, connectivity and proximity it improves the quality of surrounding residential and mixed-use complexes. The new linear park has become a favourite space for residents regardless of the season or weather conditions. One of the conclusions of the research is that it was assumed that the riverside development will improve the quality of its surroundings. However it was found that although the River Akervselva Park itself is a winning enterprise and benefits from constant interest, the division of the city is still strongly perceptible and the location either on the eastern or western bank is still a determinant of the economic and social success of the investment.