Hans Christian Andersen Museum
CUSTOMER
Architect: Kengo Kuma & Associates
Client: WIEHAG
Owner: City of Odense / AP Moeller Foundation
PROJECT
CHALLENGES
In the historic center of Odense, a new experiential museum has been created in tribute to the world-renowned writer Hans Christian Andersen. Spanning approximately 6,000 square meters, this architectural and narrative landscape invites visitors into the world of The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen, The Princess and the Pea, and The Emperor’s New Clothes.
The project was initiated by the City of Odense with generous support from the AP Moeller Foundation (Maersk Logistics). The aim: to transform the small existing museum around Andersen’s birthplace into a new spatial and conceptual experience.
Architecture and construction
The design was created by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, known for his philosophy of replacing concrete with natural materials. Accordingly, wood played the central role in the material concept.
WIEHAG was responsible for the structural engineering, detailing and installation of the five interconnected timber pavilions.
The supporting structure was inspired by traditional timber-framed houses.
Multiple circular building volumes were constructed on different levels.
The use of wood-glass façades created a balance between traditional form and modern expression.
ADVANTAGES
A complex 3D model was developed for the planning and execution of the timber structure. The curved geometries of the pavilion shapes and the flowing spatial transitions between inside and outside required a high level of accuracy and coordination – ideally supported by bocad’s features for modeling, detailing, and drawing derivation.