ARoS: Eternal Rainbow Above Aarhus

The museum, situated in an area with several prominent public buildings, appears as a single, massive tile-clad cube partly embedded in the sloping site.

The sharp-edged cube is cut vertically by a ‘museum street,’ a glass-covered curved section. The vertical cut corresponds to a horizontal cut in the east facade, creating a dynamic flow and interaction between the interior and the surrounding city and park. The context is further enhanced by long ramps connecting the museum to its surroundings.

From the north and south, two ramps lead into the brightly-lit reception area, where a giant spiral staircase and two elevators, provide visitors with access to the art and service departments in the building.

Balconies and ramps in the day-lit 'museum street' connect functions in the ten-story building both through circulation and views. The exhibition galleries are situated on one side of the 'museum street', with administration offices, lecture rooms, a library, and a shop on the other. A café, terrace, and a sculpture garden overlook the city from the occupiable roof.