Natural History Museum Oslo's Renovation Reveals Exhibition Architecture Balancing Collection and Visitor
In May 2022, the Natural History Museum Oslo welcomed visitors once again following extensive renovations. Spanning 2,300 square meters and three floors, the museum presents over 2,500 artifacts across six themed galleries, alongside the Crystal Cave installation. The exhibition design was crafted by Atelier Brückner, while barth was responsible for the interiors and display systems. Architectural modifications were executed by 4B Arkitekter. The renovation encapsulates 4.5 billion years of Earth's history, featuring display systems for items reaching five meters in length. Themes explored include evolution, minerals, oceanic history, space narratives, and geological processes. Housed in a historic 1920 building, the museum preserves original fixtures and boasts tall windows. The basement features the Crystal Cave and the Glowing Cave, highlighting minerals illuminated by artificial light.
Key facts
- The Natural History Museum Oslo reopened in May 2022 after several years of renovation.
- The museum presents more than 2,500 objects across approximately 2,300 square meters.
- The exhibition route extends across three floors and six themed galleries.
- The Crystal Cave is a separate immersive installation in the basement.
- Atelier Brückner developed exhibition design, scenography, and graphic design.
- barth realized exhibition interiors, including showcases, furniture, and display systems.
- 4B Arkitekter carried out the architectural conversion of the listed building.
- The museum occupies one of two symmetrical listed buildings within Oslo's Botanical Garden, inaugurated in 1920.
- Display systems accommodate objects up to five meters in length.
- The Crystal Cave incorporates approximately 20 tonnes of minerals.
- Alexandra Vassilakou is Architect and Project Manager for Exhibition Design at Atelier Brückner.
Entities
Artists
- Alexandra Vassilakou
Institutions
- Natural History Museum Oslo
- Atelier Brückner
- barth
- 4B Arkitekter
Locations
- Oslo
- Norway
- Oslo's Botanical Garden