In April 2008, Statens fastighetsverk (the National Property Board) was commissioned by the Government to carry out a preliminary study of the requirements for a refurbishment and renovation of the Nationalmuseum. In April 2009, the preliminary study, Nya Nationalmuseum (The New Nationalmuseum), was delieverd to the Government. The Government ordered a revised version, which was delivered August 14 2009.
Renovation is urgent
During the preparation of the preliminary study, Statens fastighetsverk and Nationalmuseum have analysed the building's deficiencies and potential, and the result is that renovation is urgent. The building is not practical for the present activities and there are major technical and work environmental concerns. During the 20th century, the original qualities of the building were dilapidated. The design of the galleries was changed, windows were covered and decoration was overpainted. However, the preliminary study also shows that the building is of great historical and cultural significance and enjoys a unique position in a European perspective.
150 years as an art museum
The creation of Nationalmuseum was the most extensive governmental investment in culture in the 19th century in Sweden. For some 150 years the building has functioned as an art museum, enjoying a special international position both as an architectural monument and an important cultural heritage.
Work in Progress: the Museum in a New Light
In conjunction with the presentation of the preliminary study, the Nationalmuseum initiated the project Work in Progress: the Museum in a New Light. Two of our galleries constitute a platform for experiments in which our experiences from the preliminary study are shown.
Photo: Hans Thorwid/Nationalmuseum 2005.