THE NEW FRONTIER
UNDERWATER
DI N I NG
As Europe’s first sub-aquatic restaurant, Norway’s
Under takes fine cuisine to exciting depths
Half submerged in the wind-whipped waters of the North
Sea, just off the rugged coast of Lindesnes on Norway’s
southernmost tip, Under looks like the world’s most modern
shipwreck. The region’s rocky landscape proves a striking
yet unforgiving home for Oslo-based architecture firm
Snøhetta’s ambitious project for local hoteliers Stig and
Gaute Ubostad. ‘It was important that the structure be
integrated in a respectful way – we wanted it to look like it’s
diving into the water,’ says Snøhetta’s Rune Grasdal. ‘During
submersion, the structure floated on its own before being
moved to its final position – that was the riskiest phase.’
WORDS: CAT OLLEY PICTURES: INGER MARIE GRINI