#StudyTrip | Exploring Art, Architecture & Urban Light in Oslo

Last week, EQUATION Lighting Design team travelled to Oslo for our annual study trip, exploring the city through its cultural buildings, public spaces, and urban landscape.

From the National Museum, where art, architecture, and design exhibitions are all under one roof, to walks through the city centre observing the dialogue between contemporary and historic buildings, each stop offered insight into how culture and urban context shape spatial experiences. The visit was especially meaningful for the team, as Equation worked on the National Museum as lighting consultants, including designs of the flexible lighting systems for all galleries and the ‘light box’ landmark feature housing a huge contemporary exhibition space. This long and complex journey, supported by an ambitious client and amazing design team, called for imaginative designs and created a stunning facility that is being thoroughly enjoyed by its numerous visitors.

Another highlight was visiting the MUNCH Museum and the Triennale of Art exhibition, where light supports storytelling, atmosphere, and movement through carefully choreographed exhibition spaces.

The visit highlighted how lighting can guide perception while remaining quietly in service of the artwork.

We also spent time visiting nearby Oslo Opera House, walking its roof and experiencing how architecture, landscape, and public space merge seamlessly, and explored the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, where art, water, and daylight interact in a fluid and human-scaled environment.

Beyond the visits themselves, the trip created space for shared observations and in depth conversations – essential moments for our team whose work is deeply connected to how people experience the built environment.

As we return to our projects, we take with us some fresh perspectives inspired by Oslo’s thoughtful approach to culture, urban life, and light.

Keith Miller Maida Hot Philip Avery Beatrice Bertolini Aniket Gore Elena Poles Alejandro Lizarralde Dhara Mansata Panagiotis Stamidis Alex H.