Member Article

Orkla opts for smart liquid crystal windows at Oslo headquarters to maximise energy efficiency ambitions

Orkla has opted for smart liquid crystal windows at its new Oslo headquarters to maximise energy efficiency ambitions for the development.

The Norwegian consumer goods supplier selected the recently developed Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal windows for solar shading for the cafeteria terrace facade at Orkla City, enabling staff to enjoy continuous visual and thermal comfort without the need for excessive air conditioning and blinds.

Orkla partnered with building firm Skanska Norge, Norwegian architects NSW Arkitektur and Staticus, the facade engineering company on the design and construction of the 82m² facade on the fifth floor of the building, installing 23 rectangular window panels of seven different sizes.

Advanced Licrivision liquid crystal technology enables Eyrise windows to darken and lighten instantaneously. It works using sensors and can be controlled through the building management system. The glass always remains a transparent neutral grey colour when tinted, so natural light is preserved even when the windows are in a darkened state, and the view to the outside is retained.

“We have high environmental aspirations for Orkla City and were keen to minimise cooling requirements while optimising light, an issue in Norway where there is a lot of darkness throughout the year,” said Gjert Brun, Managing Director at Orkla Real Estate. “Eyrise windows give us a seamless adjustment of light and temperature and require a minimum of handling and maintenance while reducing our energy costs. Meetings can as easily happen on the sofa in the canteen as in a conference room, so staff can work in comfort.”

Designed by NSW Arkitektur, the 25,000m² Orkla City multi-height commercial project consists of an office building with 16 floors suitable for 1,000 employees. The building is classified energy level A and has applied for a BREEAM excellent certificate.

“Architects love to work with glass facades but also need to consider sustainability and the impact on occupants,” said Marco Orlandi, architect at NSW Arkitektur. “Orkla is a forward-looking company that is using on demand solar control technology to increase lightwellness for its staff, all while considering the environment.”

Orkla City is the first building in Scandinavia to be equipped with Eyrise glazing. More details on the project can be found on Eyrise’s website.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Eyrise .