Vesterheim Commons

Vesterheim Commons was built to create a signature entrance and event space for the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, a multi-building campus housing one of the world’s largest collections of Norwegian folk art and historical objects.

The contemporary three-story structure, an urban infill project, stands out among the other historic buildings on the street. Architects used glue-laminated timber (glulam) beams and columns, glue-laminated timber (GLT) panels, and other wood elements to create a warm and welcoming space while meeting the museum’s sustainability goals.

A soaring exterior wood canopy is immediately visible to visitors. Glulam mullions add contrast to the glazed curtain wall, a design decision that not only created a beautiful façade, but also reduced the project’s carbon impact and saved money over steel alternatives. Inside, visitors are bathed in light thanks to a wood oculus which connects the first two floors. Structural GLT decking reflects natural light; it also allowed mechanical systems to be concealed within gaps between the panels, leaving visual focus on the beautiful wood.

Architects thoughtfully combined wood with other materials like brick, making a statement that supports a long Norwegian tradition of using honest and humble materials.