LUMBER 4, an innovative office building located in Kristiansand, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Best Office Building of the Year” in the Medium-Sized Category (5-15 floors) at the Architizer A+Awards. This accolade marks a significant achievement for the building, which stands as southern Norway’s first and largest commercial structure made entirely from mass timber. Designed by Oslotre Architects, LUMBER 4 is not just a triumph of design but also a landmark in sustainable construction, setting a new standard for the industry.
The success of LUMBER 4 lies in its pioneering approach, demonstrating that mass timber can rival traditional steel and concrete in both economic and environmental terms. Constructed in record time thanks to a high level of prefabrication and innovative building techniques, the project achieved an impressive 53% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This feat aligns with the European Union’s Taxonomy regulations, positioning LUMBER 4 as a model of sustainability and eco-conscious design.
What truly sets LUMBER 4 apart is its all-timber construction, which uses wood as the key material for its structure, insulation, and protection. The building’s distinctive green-painted, curved wooden façade has captured international attention, making it one of the most widely shared architectural projects on social media in 2023. This unique combination of aesthetic appeal and sustainability has propelled LUMBER 4 to global recognition.
Now serving as the headquarters for several Green Tech companies, LUMBER 4 is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the future of environmentally responsible architecture. The structure’s success has sparked a wider interest in mass timber as a viable alternative in modern construction, inspiring architects and developers to explore more sustainable building practices.
“Winning this award for the world’s best mid-rise office building with our all-timber LUMBER 4 signifies a transformative shift in the construction industry,” said Jørgen Tycho, Creative Director at Oslotre Architecture & Construction Technology. “We are advancing toward more sustainable, circular, and biologically-based architecture, a vision Oslotre has championed for nearly 15 years. It is immensely gratifying to see our efforts recognized on such a prestigious platform.”
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, LUMBER 4 stands as a beacon of what can be achieved through innovation and a commitment to sustainability. The recognition from the Architizer A+Awards not only celebrates the accomplishments of Oslotre Architects but also underscores the growing importance of sustainable design in shaping the future of urban environments.
