Header credit: Tomasz Majewski / Alan Williams Photography
Situated on the picturesque Odderøya peninsula in Kristiansand, Norway, Kunstsilo, originally a 1930s grain silo, has been reimagined as one of Northern Europe’s most dynamic art and cultural hubs. Combining historic preservation with modern innovation, Kunstsilo is now home to the Tangen Collection, the largest private assembly of Nordic modernist art, alongside permanent collections and contemporary digital exhibitions.
A triumph in architectural transformation
The conversion of Kunstsilo was led by Barcelona-based studios Mestres Wåge Arquitectes, BAX Studio, and Mendoza Partida. The architectural team, winners of an international competition in 2016, envisioned a space that celebrated the industrial heritage of the original silo while creating a contemporary art museum. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where the structure’s original silos are integrated into a striking, “basilica-like” atrium with a 21-meter-high circulation core.
The building’s exterior has been restored, with the original white-plastered facade retained and echoed in a newly rebuilt volume. A more experimental extension on the east side features a white aluminum cladding with a corrugated finish, nodding to the cylindrical forms of the silos. Inside, the galleries adopt a minimalist “white-box” aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with glimpses of raw concrete silos, emphasizing the interplay between past and present.
Lighting design: Enhancing art and architecture
Central to Kunstsilo’s transformative appeal is its award-winning lighting design, recognized with the prestigious LIT Lighting Design Award for Best Cultural Building Lighting Design. The lighting concept was crafted to complement the museum’s minimalist architecture and ensure the art remains the focal point. The design prioritizes visual comfort and readability, integrating light into the architecture to create a unified experience.
The lighting team, responsible for indoor and outdoor illumination, demonstrated an exceptional commitment to sustainability. High-quality, energy-efficient fixtures were used sparingly, providing light only where necessary. Custom-designed aluminum pendants and carefully selected spotlights enhance the aesthetic while maintaining environmental responsibility. An advanced control system ensures optimal functionality, durability, and energy efficiency, reflecting the team’s dedication to sustainable design.
A cultural powerhouse
Spanning three stories and 3,300 square meters, Kunstsilo houses 25 galleries filled with over 7,500 unique artworks. From the 1910s to the 1990s, the museum’s collections showcase more than 300 artists across the Nordic region. Complementing these historical works are digital installations and temporary exhibitions, inviting audiences to engage with art innovatively.
Beyond the galleries, Kunstsilo offers a diverse array of cultural experiences. Visitors can attend lectures, concerts, and workshops, or enjoy the rooftop bar with its panoramic terraces inspired by the building’s silo forms. Outdoor sculptures, a boardwalk, and free ground-floor exhibitions further establish Kunstsilo as an inviting space for the community.
Honoring the past, shaping the future
Kunstsilo’s thoughtful design and cultural offerings reflect a deep respect for its historical roots while pushing the boundaries of modern museum architecture. By integrating sustainable practices, preserving heritage, and embracing innovation, Kunstsilo has set a new standard for cultural spaces. As a lighthouse of Nordic modernism and creativity, Kunstsilo illuminates the possibilities of adaptive reuse and collaborative design, inspiring visitors worldwide.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: Henning Larsen Architects
Lead Designers: Kathrine Hjelmeset
Architecture Company: Mestres Wåge Arquitectes, Mendoza Partida og BAX Studio
Interior Design Company: Scenario
Photo Credits: © Tomasz Majewski and © Alan Williams Photography
Project Location: Kristiansand, Norway
Client: Kunstsilo
Completion Date: May 2024
