In the historic industrial area by the river Akerselva in Oslo, Norway, Snøhetta has designed a building that explores the possibilities of the future in ventilation. Named Vertikal Nydalen, the building is a pilot in a research project on more sustainable ventilation and energy solutions and is the very first mixed-use building in Norway with naturally ventilated offices. It results from an interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers and architects and uses innovative architectural and technical solutions. Compared to traditional mechanical ventilation, naturally ventilated offices have less need for remodeling and maintenance and can potentially give a better experience for the users.

The 18-floor building hosts restaurants at street level, offices on the following five floors, and apartments on top. Each of the building's 40 apartments is unique, the sizes range from 44 sqm to 143 sqm with a variety of layouts. At the top of the two buildings, Snøhetta has designed roof terraces with a panoramic view of the city and a selection of plants that stimulates micro-habitats for endangered species.