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Demolition as an enabler of circularity in construction
24 September 2026
Focused on circular construction and demolition practices, this case study from Urban Reuse, part of NG Nordic, will discuss the remarkable transformation of the former American Embassy in Oslo, at the World Demolition Summit 2026.
The Oslo embassy project is a fine example of circularity in demolition (Image: Urban Reuse)
One of Norway’s most important post-war modernist buildings, the embassy was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and opened in 1959.
This protected landmark has been carefully adapted for new public, hospitality and office uses while preserving its architectural and cultural significance.
Presenter Are Strøm will explore how selective demolition, temporary works and major structural interventions enabled the creation of new space beneath and within the existing building with virtually no measurable settlement.
He will highlight how demolition can serve as a tool for transformation and circularity, extending the life and value of historic buildings rather than removing them.
Are Strøm, CEO, Urban Reuse, and EVP, NG Nordic, Norway
With 30 years of experience in project management across various segments of the construction industry, Are leads the development of the NG Nordic, with 900 employees and businesses in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark, through a combination of acquisitions and organic growth.
Are Strøm, CEO Urban Reuse and EVP NG Nordic
Are’s experience includes heading up the building and infrastructure branches of leading Nordic construction company NCC, as well as the development and management of a number of project management consultancies in Norway and Spain, and a major drilling rig upgrade and oilfield drilling operations for SLB in Africa.
He holds an MSc in marine technology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, an MBA in finance, strategy and marketing from Instituto de Empresa in Madrid and several certifications within project management.
NG Nordic has pioneered circularity since its founding in 1926. It is placed among Europe’s top circular solutions and environmental services providers with 78% of its turnover attributed to activities classified as sustainable.
See the whole conference programme here and register to attend.
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