Danish architectural firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) is transforming a former Aldi supermarket in North Jutland, Denmark, into the Museum for Paper Art, an expanded space dedicated to celebrating the country's deep-rooted heritage of paper craft and artistry. The new design prominently features a lightweight, curving roof inspired by a folded sheet of paper, embodying the museum's central theme. The renovation and expansion will emphasize paper as both an artistic and a practical medium, reinforcing the museum's mission to preserve and promote this distinctive Danish cultural legacy
The 2,300-square-meter renovation will seamlessly integrate the old and new structures under this paper-like roof, creating an architectural form that connects exhibition areas, workshops, and public gathering spaces. The existing building will be wrapped in an origami-inspired façade, in collaboration with various paper artists, merging art with function while reducing sound reflection. Inside, a mix of timber and white brick will echo the materials and methods of paper-making.
“Paper art is deeply embedded in our cultural heritage, showcased through Denmark’s paper art tradition through iconic designs such as Le Klint’s folding lamps and H.C Andersen’s paper clips. Carrying this legacy into the future is something this museum has at its heart. We are also proud of recycling an existing building” – Karen Bit Vejle (Museum Director). The project seeks to amplify the museum’s influence and double its annual visitors promoting the distinctive cultural legacy.
