Furnishings for one of the world’s best destinations

In Kristiansand, a 1930s grain silo has been transformed into one of northern Europe's premier venues for art and cultural experiences. Input interior has supplied the furnishings for the project, which has already been recognised as one of the world's best destinations.

The grain silo on the island of Odderøya in Kristiansand municipality was taken out of use in 2008. Two years later, the municipality decided that it should be preserved. In 2015, local businessman Nicolai Tangen donated his art collection to his hometown and that was the start of the “Kunstsilo” project.

In 2019, the first sod was turned and now, just over five years later, Kunstsilo has opened to the public.

The Spanish-Norwegian architectural firm Mestres Wåge Arquitectes developed the interior design concept with the aim of preserving the historical architecture in combination with new elements. Among other things, 30 silos have been cut off on the inside to make room for a large and stately common room that will be able to accommodate concerts and large gatherings.

One of the world’s best destinations

Kunstsilo has a total area of 3,300 square metres and houses as many as 25 galleries. Input interior has been responsible of the furnishings for the art museum, which has been named as one of the world’s best destinations in 2024 by Financial Times.

“There has been a great focus on Nordic brands and high-quality furniture, and all in all it has turned out very well,” says Sissel Merete Ødegård, Site Manager at Input interior in Kristiansand.

Elisabeth Haukelidsæter, who acted as project manager for Input interior, is pleased with the result, to say the least.

“The interior designer has done a very nice job where everything is carefully thought out. There have been short delivery dates and deadlines, but we have had a good collaboration with all parties and the end result speaks for itself,” concludes Elisabeth.