The new three-storey development adds a current take on the classic style of the neighbourhood, presenting a clean, yet tastefully decorated facade.

The building derives its architectural nerve from a meeting of contrasts: facing the street, the plastered brick walls, cast iron-fenced balconies, and aedicule window frames are in line with the early 20th century style that dominates the area.

On the architecture, created by Oslo-based Mellbye Arkitektur AS, visitors are greeted by a space constructed with modern concrete and light steel elements. From the street level, escalators take shoppers to the first and basement levels, where open, glass-enveloped retail spaces await the stores that will fill the floors with enticing shopping experiences. An old bakery shop retained in the central part of the complex functions as a link between past and present.

The future belongs to innovative retailers. What’s important in modern retail is providing a new and genuinely different customer experience. At Valkyrien, we rethink the rules of bricks and mortar, aiming to create a multi-sensory experience that cannot be replicated online or imitated on the high street. This includes two large international store concepts and a variety of exciting Norwegian retailers.

This is an environment that speaks to the emotions, a place of discovery, where people want to hang out and drop by. Where they come for fun and entertainment, to be surprised. Supporting this forward-facing retail aspiration, the architectural style of Valkyrien combines elements old and new to create a unique experience for discerning shoppers.

A large high-end multibrand-boutique will materialize at the completion of Valkyrien. The exquisite shop will showcase a curated mix of of luxury, contemporary, sneakers and sport fashion designs from a range of international brands.

Kaffebrenneriet coffee bar, a much-loved time capsule hangout for locals, including best-selling author Jo Nesbø, who likes to write most of his work here, will re-open at its old location within the new premises of the Valkyrien project.

Vinmonopolet is also scheduled to open an exquisite beer, wine, and liquor specialty store in the vaults of the beautifully refurbished old bakery building.

Heaven Scent is a unique concept perfumery that hand-pick the best luxury, niche- and cult-brands from around the world and carry a carefully selected portfolio of fragrance, skincare, haircare, makeup, interior scent, jewellery and hair-accessories.

It is not a supermarket – it is a super market. At the lower floor of Valkyrien you will find a range of food shops selling everything from fresh delis, soups, home-made ice creams and exotic meals. Here you can hang-out for a bite to eat, relax whilst drinking a nice cup of coffee, grab your take-out on your way home or even cater your next dinner party.

Additional exciting retailers and culinary treats will be announced as the project nears completion.

Stores will be located on street level, first and basement floor, with shopfronts opening on to Valkyriegata, Bogstadveien, Sorgenfrigata, and Ole Vigsgate, for a total of approximately 6,500m2. Expected completion of the project is spring 2020.