P5: Main Building (Hovedbygningen)
Main Building - Hovedbygningen (P5)
The historic Main Building will be revitalised and extended with a new wing that provides important new spaces. NTNU’s heart will once again become a gathering place for students and staff — and will open its doors more fully to the rest of the city.
From icon to Main Hub
Since 1910, the Main Building has stood as a symbol of higher education. Over time, however, it has been used less by students as many everyday functions have moved elsewhere on campus. The aim now is to turn it into a vibrant hub for the university and Trondheim.
A new extension on the south side will provide shared areas and new meeting spaces. A restaurant and café on the ground floor will have outdoor seating facing south, open during the day and into the evening. The library — previously the Technology Library at Gløshaugen — will be expanded and joined by the Humanities and Social Sciences Library from Dragvoll.
Improved flow and universal design
A key part of the work is to make the Main Building accessible to everyone. The staircase at the main entrance will be preserved and supplemented with ramps and a lowering mechanism for easier access. Two new side entrances will also be created to ensure equal access for all.
Inside, the building will be adapted to improve circulation and strengthen connections between the floors. The goal is to make it natural to enter and use the building, not just walk past it.
A historic building for a new era
Because the Main Building is protected, all changes must be carried out in close collaboration with the Directorate for Cultural Heritage. By upgrading and actively using the building, we safeguard it for the future. The beautiful, historic landmark will continue to be a distinctive part of the city.
Illustration: RAMBØLL/C.F. Møller Architects/Rolvung og Brøndsted Arkitekter/Fabel Arkitekter/Oslo Works/mtre/Aas-Jakobsen