“The goal is to create a building that becomes one of Oslo’s top 10 most visited places.”

New life is coming to the historic Deichman building

“The past year has been an incredible journey, full of significant progress. Being part of Deich’s development has given me the opportunity to work both creatively and strategically on a project that will leave a lasting impression on our city,” says Siri Løining. She is Møller Eiendom’s Concept and Development Manager for the Deich project. In 2027, Oslo’s old main library will be reborn as the city’s premier meeting place.

The dream project

Løining is thrilled to have been entrusted with bringing new life to Gamle Deichmanske.

“This is, without a doubt, a dream project.”

Møller Eiendom’s ambitious goal of combining history, functionality, and innovative concepts to transform an iconic building into a photography and cultural center was a challenge she simply could not turn down.

“The idea of creating a dynamic and inclusive space for photography, culture, dining, and dialogue resonated strongly with me,” she explains.

Her vision is for the new cultural hub to leave a unique impression on its visitors.

“When people leave Deich, they should feel something very special - a sense of having been in a place that truly enriches: a place where they have discovered something new and been inspired. That is what Deich aims to offer.”

“The goal is that visitors, when leaving the building, don’t just have had a wonderful experience, but also leave with a deeper connection to photography,” says Løining.

A massive building

Designed by Nils Reiersen, the building was nicknamed “Trappehuset” (The Staircase House) when it opened in 1933, due to its 25 different floors and levels.

Transforming an old library of this scale into a cultural center requires careful planning.

“We started with a feasibility study to map out the project’s key elements, including concept development and strategy. Then a successful process with the City Preservation Authority was crucial to avoid formal heritage issues. The project has required, and will continue to require, a high level of overall organization. With my background in operations and hotel development, I am well equipped to contribute here,” she says.

Løining joined the project with extensive experience. She previously worked as Brand Director for Sommerro and before that was engaged in the Amerikalinjen project.

However, she is not working alone on Deich.

“Our project group consists of a wide range of key people, and my closest project partner, Erik Gausen, knows every nook and cranny of the building. Our collaboration is complementary,” she explains.

A skilled team from various fields has also been brought together to work on visual identity, interior design, sustainability, and preservation.