At Aud Max, It’s So Severe That The Windows Are Falling Out

During week 34, you may have noticed changes at Aud Max. No? Then you’re reading the right article. These changes follow a condition report described by Anne Storset, Acting CEO at NMBU, as “so severe that the windows are falling out” during a general meeting on August 20.

Journalist: Erik Mathias Rolstad
Translator: Theodor Kalager
Photographer: Henrik Bakken

The condition of Aud Max is currently described as critical, with cracks recently appearing in the glass facade. Based on a risk assessment by NMBU’s Property Department, several safety measures have been implemented to allow continued use of the building through 2025. A complete renovation is scheduled to begin on January 1, 2026, at which point Aud Max will be closed for all use.

Does this mean you’re more likely to get hit by a glass pane than an icicle in winter? No, the windows only pose a risk of falling out during strong winds. Following an inspection of Aud Max, scaffolding has been put up outside the main entrance and safety tape placed inside to ensure safe passage. In an interview with Oscar Solberg Lægland, Chair of the Samfunnsstyret, and Rakel Mariannedotter Orvedal, Head of Bodega, they emphasized efforts to keep Samfunnet attractive to its members and highlighted the possibility of using venues like the Festsalen for events once Aud Max closes.

Whether safety tape is sufficient for everyday use is debatable. On the very first day the tape was installed, several people were seen sitting inside the restricted area. Naturally, it takes time for everyone to be informed about the risks associated with Aud Max, but this highlights the need for better signage and information in the building.

In a message from Solve Sæbø, Principal at NMBU, he states that the safety of both students and staff is the top priority. Due to the challenging financial situation NMBU is facing, which you can read more about in issue 01 of Tuntreet, the renovation of Aud Max has been postponed until early 2026.

Who Is Affected?

Concerts organized by Samfunnet and other events may be impacted. While safety tape will be present inside the venue, security guards will be on duty during large events. Aud Max will only be temporarily closed during strong winds. There will be close and active collaboration between the Property Department and Studentsamfunnet to ensure all events can proceed.

What Can You Do?

Kjersti Sørlie Rimer, Property Director at NMBU, emphasized in an interview with Tuntreet, the importance of everyone in the building looking out for one another. You are encouraged to SPEAK UP if you see someone inside the restricted area and report to post@nmbu.no. any developments or new cracks in the glass façade.