Combining good quality of living, tradition and innovation, Reiulf Ramstad Architects has elaborated a site specific solution in Oslo, which takes into account different levels of complexity on the site. The Pilestredet 77-79 housing project is located in a resulting plot in a residential area constructed since the 19th century. This particular location lies between four neighborhoods with a heterogeneous character.

The project is therefore in a transitional point and must mediate between the different types of buildings. The two low blocks are confronted with neighboring terraced houses and create continuity backwards from the street front. These have the same footprint on the ground and alternate floors with four or two apartments each. 

The third block has a much greater volume than the other parts of the complex and is in a corner position, defined by two arteries with high distance. This building has a markedly urban character: on the ground floor there are also some commercial spaces (a cafeteria) overlooking the street.

The upper levels can accommodate from six to eight units, depending on the size of the apartments, which are smaller in the lower floors and larger in the top of the building. The three housing blocks are connected to each other by a system of open spaces in which greenery reigns, and by the same sophisticated materiality of the outer shell. The bricks used for the facades are in fact handcrafted and characterized by a rough texture.