Engaging a new generation through interactive design

NATIONAL NORDIC MUSEUM

The National Nordic Museum in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood tells the story of the heritage of the Nordic-American life and the role it has played in the culture of the Northwest.

It is an internationally recognized museum and cultural center where people of all backgrounds can be inspired by the values, traditions, art, and spirit of the Nordic peoples. The facility is designed around a linear “fjord” which takes visitors through both the stories of the homeland and the Nordic American experience.
The museum is 57,000 SF in size and includes both permanent and changing exhibit space, an auditorium for hosting events, a welcoming grand entrance with a public kaffe (café), and museum store. The facility also has classrooms, offices, temperature-controlled collection areas, and a full-size commercial kitchen. Both the active location and a grander interactive experience are meant to engage a new generation of visitors. The museum has been designed and built to target LEED Silver.
RLB | Robinson has been involved with this project for over a decade, from the program and preplanning stage through final completion, providing project management services for the owner, Nordic Museum.