journal
Photography: Pernille Sandberg
27 / 10 / 2026
What if a simple cup of coffee became an experience for all the senses? In Oslo, Snøhetta brings élan to life – a space where materials, architecture and sound intertwine in a carefully balanced composition, transforming everyday rituals into a unique sensory experience.
Set within the historic Sjøfartsbygningen building, Snøhetta has created élan, a space where materiality, geometry and sound come together to shape an atmosphere that is both distinctive and immersive. Sculpted cork, dark timber and touches of green establish a contemporary design language inspired by the very nature of coffee.
At the heart of the project, a circular counter in stained oak creates a new meeting point between customers and baristas. Paired with a sculptural volume of solid cork, three-dimensionally carved and heat-treated, it takes centre stage in a bespoke interior where architecture and furniture merge into an almost monolithic composition.
At the heart of the project, a circular counter in stained oak creates a new meeting point between customers and baristas. Paired with a sculptural volume of solid cork, three-dimensionally carved and heat-treated, it takes centre stage in a bespoke interior where architecture and furniture merge into an almost monolithic composition.
“I think there's magic in creating curiosity around everyday routines. One way of achieving that is to shuffle the pieces around a little.” explains Peter Girgis, Interior Architect at Snøhetta. This idea underpins a space that challenges the conventional layout of a coffee shop, encouraging new forms of interaction and fostering a closer connection between visitors and the art of coffee-making.
The experience extends to a ceiling-mounted installation featuring an original soundscape by Jonas von der Fehr. Inspired by the different rhythms of the space, the composition subtly guides visitors between the energy of the counter and the tranquillity of the seating areas. The colour palette draws on the tones of coffee, establishing a delicate connection with the building’s oxidised copper details.
Conceived as the flagship space for Magnat Kaffehus, élan goes beyond the traditional concept of a coffee shop. It is an exercise in sensory design, where natural materials, visual identity and acoustics come together to transform an everyday ritual into a carefully choreographed experience.
Conceived as the flagship space for Magnat Kaffehus, élan goes beyond the traditional concept of a coffee shop. It is an exercise in sensory design, where natural materials, visual identity and acoustics come together to transform an everyday ritual into a carefully choreographed experience.
