The Diagonale project is a central part of the redevelopment of Oslo's vibrant new district, Bjørvika. As part of the winning project for Oslo's new Central Library, the Diagonale site was divided into two parts; A8 (Deichman library) and A9 for commercial utilization including housing, offices and shopping.

A pedestrian street cuts diagonally through the A9 site and creates two smaller sites thereby establishing a physical spatial sequence, as well as a visual connection between the front of the opera and the sea with the city to the northeast. Dividing the site gives each building a human scale and integrates the project into the city. Restaurants and shops will occupy both sites at street level.

Location as well as excellent light and views make the site suitable for housing development. In particular, Student housing is seen as a positive contribution to counteract the commercial dominance of the area, and help make it a vibrant active part of the city by day and by night.