The buildings were refurbished on a large scale in 1996. Among other things a second story was built over the reception area. Smaller alternations followed, and in 2004 a new extension to the main building was completed.
The extension was designed by Norwegian architect Torstein Ramberg, and compromises 5 stories divided into three apartments and a multifunction hall which can seat 100 people. The hall spans two levels with the second floor as a gallery overlooking the first.
The multifunction hall decor is modern with white walls and areas covered in 3-dimentional wood paneling. 3 large scale textile artworks by Norwegian artist Trine Mauritz Eriksen ornament the room. The textiles are coloured using traditional Japanese shibori techniques, and their size, texture and playful use of shape and colour are specifically made to compliment the reoccurring 3-dimentional theme of the room. The pieces are made to change depending on the positioning of the viewer, the lighting, and amount of natural daylight in the room.
The exterior of the building is covered with light grey, ceramic tiles. The roof is flat, and the buildings present an image of modern Japanese style.
Artworks
The Norwegian Embassy has in its possession a number of original artworks.
Most of the art is on loan from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The remaining pieces either belong to the Norwegian National Gallery, or were given as gifts directly to the embassy. The greater majority of artwork at the embassy is Norwegian.
The residence
Entering into the Ambassador’s residence, guests are greeted by several paintings and tapestries, with Frans Widerberg’s painting “Aurora Polaris” as a focal point. Widerberg is one of Norway’s best-known and celebrated modern-day artists, widely recognized for his red, yellow, and blue colour experimentation. “Aurora Polaris” portrays the essence of beauty in northern lights dancing above the arctic tundra.
Arne Vinje Gunnerud’s “Cult Ox” stands in front of the cloakroom. Gunnerud is known for his connection with northern mythology, but also finds inspiration internationally, picking up influences from Africa and among others Native Americans. Marianne Magnus’ tapestry “From the Tower” hangs above Gunnerud’s sculpture.
Moving into the living room there are eight lithographs and woodcuts by the internationally distinguished Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, including famous works “The Vampire” and “The Brooch.”
Several pottery and glass works can be found in both the living room and library, including pieces by internationally celebrated Hadeland designers Willy Johansson and Benny Motzfelt.
In the dining room, centrepiece painting “Exterior morning Sap.green” immediately demands attention. Painted by Harald Fenn, the piece is done in acrylic paint using airbrush and spray gun techniques. The viewer is constantly challenged to shift their perception between the scenic background and the grid of lines in the forefront.
Other important works in the dining area include the graphic “It Was a Beautiful Day” featuring the Glittertind mountain peak by Per Kleiva, and Tore Hansen’s oil painting “Full Moon” depicting a winter forest. Ceramic works by Karin Helgeby, Ole Lislerud, and Leif Heiberg Myrdam are also on display in the dining room.
The Chancery
In front of the main entrance and reception area stands another sculpture by Arne Vinje Gunnerud, the massive “Fenrisulven” in bronze. This sculpture also reveals the artist’s interest in northern mythology, and clearly demonstrates an interesting link between the depiction of dragons in both early Scandinavia and Asia.
In the Ambassador’s office hangs “Without Title” by renowned artist Jan Groth. Groth’s creative variations and ability to bring out the energy in simple lines is widely acknowledged. “Without Title” is drawn in black charcoal on white paper.
A coat-rack designed by Peter Opsvik can be found in the same room. Opsvik is behind the success chairs “Tripp Trapp” and “Balanse.” “Trip Trap” is an ergonomically correct chair for children designed to “grow with” the child. “Balanse" combines European and Japanese elements so the user can continuously alter his or her sitting position, relieving pressure on the lower back and increasing blood circulation.
Three tapestries by Trine Mauritz Eriksen are on display in the event hall of the new annex. Eriksen uses traditional Japanese Shibori colouring techniques creating playful, texturally interesting 3-dimentional pieces that change depending on the position of the viewer. The pieces were made especially for the hall, complementing the Scandinavian/Japanese style.