Search
Art & Culture

Sweden’s Nationalmuseum Shows Off Spectacular $130 Million Renovation

The 1866 neo-Renaissance edifice was graciously reconfigured by architects Josefin Larsson, Gert Wingårdh, and Erik Wikerstål

By Geoffrey Montes
Front view of a large, historic building with arches and decorative features, set against a blue sky and water in the foreground.
Sweden’s Nationalmuseum is once again Stockholm’s premier cultural destination. Photo: Hans Thorwid, Courtesy of the Nationalmuseum

Sweden’s Nationalmuseum, which showcases six centuries of Scandinavian art and design, is once again Stockholm’s premier cultural destination.

Closed in 2013 for a $130 million overhaul, the 1866 neo-Renaissance edifice was graciously reconfigured by architects Josefin Larsson, Gert Wingårdh, and Erik Wikerstål. “Now the museum is a flagship of inspiration and experiences,” says museum director Susanna Pettersson.

Recommended: China’s Latest Art Museum Is Embedded in a Sand Dune

Dozens of concealed windows have been unmasked, and skylights illuminate a new sculpture courtyard. Most notably, the institution tripled the number of objects it can display. Says Pettersson, “I value the possibility to bring the grand, and even magical, atmosphere back to the galleries.”

Interior of a grand museum gallery with statues, paintings, and ornate architectural details along a large staircase.
The Upper Stair Hall. Anna Danielsson, Courtesy of the Nationalmuseum

A museum room displaying various classical sculptures on pedestals with arched windows in the background.
From the gallery for art from the 18th century. Anna Danielsson/Nationalmuseum

Sculptures displayed in a museum hall with classical statues, an angel, and large ornate urn.
The Sculpture Courtyard. Anna Danielsson, Courtesy of the Nationalmuseum

Elegant staircase with ornate railing leading to large, detailed wall murals in a historic building interior.
The foyer with Carl Larsson’s frescoes. Bruno Ehrs, Courtesy of the Nationalmuseum

A sunlit gallery with classical sculptures and paintings in a museum with ornate arched ceilings and yellow walls.
The gallery for art from 1800 to 1870. Bruno Ehrs, Courtesy of the Nationalmuseum

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2018 Winter issue under the headline Grand Reopening. Subscribe to the magazine.