How Are NGI's New Technical Areas Planned?

Planning and constructing new areas for Geodata and Technology is a significant undertaking, far beyond deciding the placement of coffee machines or office layouts. Sjursen, who was responsible for planning and relocating the technical areas from Sognsveien to Sandakerveien, now faces a similar challenge with the move to Campus Ullevål.

"I think the Campus Ullevål building will be fantastic," says Morten enthusiastically, gazing at the construction site where the new premises are taking shape, floor by floor.

As a geotechnical engineer, Morten spends at least two days a week on-site, enabling close collaboration with Skanska and its subcontractors.

"I enjoy being on construction sites. Before training as a geotechnician, I worked as a construction laborer with a formwork carpenter's certificate," he shares.

The project is progressing well, with deadlines on track. Skanska is set to hand over in time for NGI move in by summer 2026.

Several thousand sockets

The journey to this point has involved meticulous planning, foresight, and the pursuit of optimized, flexible solutions. Once construction is complete, making changes will be costly, so careful attention has been paid to the placement of thousands of sockets, water connections, and pipe passages. Adjustments, such as moving an oven by 30 centimeters due to a ventilation duct, have required adaptability and problem-solving.

"These changes and the effort to find the best solutions have taken longer than I expected," Morten admits.

He is quick to credit his team for their contributions.

"I’ve had invaluable help from colleagues with a keen eye for detail, logistics expertise, and the ability to revise plans and improve solutions along the way."

He particularly commends Andreas Haugland, Ulf Mjelde, Jørgen Røsholm Berntsen, and Halvard Smith for their efforts.

Visible and Accessible Lab

In Sandakerveien, accessing the lab from NGI's offices requires passing through at least four key card checkpoints. At Campus Ullevål, the labs will be both visible and easily accessible.

"In Sandakerveien, people rarely stumble into the lab by chance. At Campus Ullevål, we hope they will," says Morten.

The new setup is designed to foster closer collaboration between the lab and office spaces. For instance, equipment that is silent and does not require water or chemicals has been placed in office-adjacent areas.

"This allows for optimal use of space and promotes seamless interaction between office and lab environments. I believe this will result in more efficient workflows, and I’m eager to see it in practice," he notes.

Morten also anticipates that the workshop and test hall will be more user-friendly, and the field department will operate under improved conditions.

"However, for those accustomed to the large equipment storage areas in Sognsveien, the new facilities will be smaller. We will need to rethink storage strategies and possibly rent additional space."

Comprehensive and Thoughtful Solutions

The years spent in Sandakerveien have provided an opportunity to refine operations, upgrade equipment, and prepare for the move to Campus Ullevål.

"We’ve continuously worked to ensure everything is well-thought-out. The solutions we’ve developed will shine even brighter at Campus Ullevål."

Moving Plan: A Long Weekend

The move is scheduled to begin with the workshop.

"When we moved to Sandakerveien, we learned how essential it was to have tools and the workshop operational early. We’ll follow a similar strategy this time, with the bulk of the lab move planned for a long weekend," says Morten.

Once again, he praises his team’s dedication.

"During the move from Sognsveien to Sandakerveien, everyone rolled up their sleeves and worked tirelessly to ensure the lab was ready. I expect the same spirit this time around."

Morten is confident that the transition to Campus Ullevål will be smooth and successful.