Oseana Gallery and Cultural Centre

Councils across europe have finally begun to show more confidence in the growth potential of investing in architecturally brave cultural centers. This probably stems from the success of the Guggenheim in Bilbao and New York. Here is a humbler example from the West coast of Norway in Os. Designed by Grieg Arkitekter AS a fun and exciting building has been produced. The project houses a new gallery, concert hall and restaurant. Looking out on to the wild fjord it is the perfect location to enjoy cultural activities.

The interior design and branding was completed by the local design firm Fuggibaggi Design AS

Contemporary Cinema Design.

This is the latest completed project from the Norwegian design firm Fuggi Baggi. Using experimental lighting and structural techniques they have produced a stunning space that can be adapted for multiple purposes. At Bergen Kino the ceiling consists of drilled aluminum plating pre pressed in to a series of wave like structures. Independently controllable RGB lights have then been fitted, being RGB any desired colour can be created and even low resolution graphics can be displayed using the lights. The cinema resides in an old theatre which used to be double the height of the existing space.

I found the whole experience of photographing the space surprisingly relaxing. With long exposures of up to 5 minutes I really had time to appreciate the subtle nuances of colour and spatial design in the auditorium. Whilst tempted to enjoy a film in the space I decided ‘Bob The Builder’ was probably not the most productive use of my time! The rest of the Bergen Kino complex is due to be renovated over the next 3-4 years.