The museum of the future is taking shape on Odderøya
Vest-Agder Museum is constructing a new museum of cultural history on Odderøya in Kristiansand, with a planned opening in 2028. The museum will become a national and international attraction, showcasing the history of Southern Norway in a global context.
The new building will span three floors and feature a rooftop open to the public around the clock, along with an inviting park area. It will be constructed in glulam and cross laminated timber, with high quality finishes such as polished concrete and timber slat walls. The museum is designed by the renowned architects at Helen & Hard.
Odderøya as a cultural destination
Together with Kunstsilo and Kilden Performing Arts Centre, the new Vest-Agder Museum will help transform Odderøya in Kristiansand into one of the most exciting cultural destinations in the Nordic region.
The museum will showcase the history of Kristiansand and the surrounding region, with a special emphasis on maritime heritage. It will also serve as a venue for rotating exhibitions and events. The museum will become a central hub for cultural storytelling, closely connected to Odderøya Museum Harbour and the many heritage sites on the island.
A museum for children and young people
The new museum is designed to welcome a wide range of audiences and age groups. For younger visitors, there will be activities both indoors and outdoors, with the aim of conveying cultural history through play and hands on experiences.
The exhibitions will also make use of new technology in cases where original artefacts cannot be displayed. The project is planned as a FutureBuilt development, with high ambitions for environmental performance and architectural quality. Universal design will be an essential part of the planning process.
The new museum harbour is already open
The first phase of the new museum area was completed in the summer of 2025, featuring a modern harbour facility that showcases classic Norwegian plastic and wooden boats produced in the region. Designed by Helen & Hard, the harbour structure is an experience in itself, a beautiful wooden installation that curves along the waterfront and offers a unique view of the city and the harbour.
Be sure to stop by the next time you visit Odderøya. Here you can enjoy the architecture, the fresh sea air and a small taste of what awaits when the new museum opens in 2028.
