Ski jump, Oslo

The old ski jump in Holmenkollen in Oslo hosted its first event way back in 1892, since when it has been one of Norway's leading landmarks. Situated on one of the hills surrounding the capital, the Holmenkollen ski jump is a reference point for locals and visitors alike. New ski jump standards may have made the existing structure obsolete, but the new design will make the treasured jump even more of an eye-catcher. The jury of the recent open international competition praised the winning proposal for the 'purity' of its lines, and for the public space at the top of the jump that will allow visitors to experience something of what the ski jumpers themselves enjoy. The open terrace at the top will offer a 360-degree view of the city, the fjord and the surrounding hills and forests.

The entry was named 'Holmenkollen lighthouse' and as the name suggests, the profile of the jump will be extended by 'headlamp' light beams at the top of the construction. Moreover, the architect is planning to dress the body of the steel-truss construction in a transparent material and light it from within. The design uses the called-for wind protection profile structurally and sculpturally, creating a lean shape containing the slope and lifts as well as a lounge and café at the top. These two 'arms' are extended and form a continuous frame around the stands and the landing area. The top is cut horizontally to accommodate the viewing platform. A service building containing the public entrance to the jump and to an existing ski museum is set back into the hill, serving as an anchor for the structure and allowing it to cantilever out without further structural support.

The winning team is Copenhagen-based JDS Architects, headed by Belgian architect Julien de Smedt. Construction of the new ski jump can start as soon as the existing ski jump has been demolished, probably late spring 2008. The completion of the new slope is scheduled for 2010, one year before the World Championships are due to be held in Oslo (see update).