Transformation of our space
Over the past six months, we have worked intensively to transform the building into a functional and inspiring space for art and community. The progress we have made would not have been possible without the extraordinary effort of our extended team, friends, and family. Countless hours of volunteer work, practical problem-solving, and hands-on dedication have allowed us to stretch every kroner far beyond what would normally be possible.
Before pictures
A lot of documentation during the process
Electrical
All outdated lighting has been replaced with modern, energy-efficient solutions. The new system allows for zoned lighting control, adaptable for exhibitions, production work, and development processes. Extensive amounts of old wiring and electrical equipment have been removed. Circuits and power points have been reorganized and expanded according to current needs. Emergency lighting has been installed, and power access to the kitchen and backstage areas has been secured.
Construction
Several tons of pipes and metal structures have been removed from the ceiling, including remnants of the former sprinkler system, central vacuum installation, and other mill-related infrastructure. Two internal rooms have been demolished to create a more open spatial layout.
New hatches and doors have been installed in the stairwells leading to the second floor and basement, improving both safety and thermal insulation. We identified the possibility of connecting the toilet unit directly to the municipal sewage system, significantly simplifying the accessibility-compliant restroom solution. A wheelchair ramp has been built at the main entrance and to the toilet facility.
Extensive work has also been carried out to seal and level floors and ceilings, which previously contained numerous holes left from old pipes and machinery.
Painting
The ceiling and columns have been pressure-washed, scrubbed, primed, and spray-painted. The walls have been scraped, sanded, and primed. We have grown fond of the industrial character of the space and have therefore chosen to preserve the walls in their current raw expression.
The floors have been thoroughly cleaned, primed, leveled, and finished with two coats of epoxy paint, with a third coat planned.
Plumbing & Technical Installations
Water has been installed in the building, and damaged pipes have been replaced, enabling connection to the municipal water supply. The toilet has been directly connected to the sewage system and fitted with frost protection.
Two outdated heat pumps have been removed and replaced with two new units (generously sponsored by the property owner).
The hole in the ceiling
All floors contained a large opening previously used to transport machinery between levels. We re-centered this opening toward the entrance area by relocating a beam and adjusting the flooring. A new finished ceiling was constructed beneath the third floor, transforming the area into a visually interesting space suitable for hanging art.
The kitchen transformation
Funding from ARENA also enabled us to apply for kitchen support, resulting in a donated kitchen from Strai Kjøkken and Sør-fondet (see images below).
Some random and cute after pictures
Thank you so much to everyone who has made this transformation possible!
William Arthur Nilsen
Niel Benjaminsen
Siren Axelsen
Siren and Christian Wulff
Oshild Gunvaldsen
Tor og Tippi Noraas
Eirik Larsen og the gang at Vige Interiør
Jo Abusland
Mikkel Wennesland
John Paulsen
Advisory board: Eirik Pirolt, Ann Cathrin November Høibo, Ingrid Michaelsen, Lene Dalgaard
Martin Vinje
Sven Persson
Mari Haaland Andersen
Stian Haagensen
Olto
KS Elektro
Vavik og Tønnessen
Extra thank you to our financial supporters:
Kulturdirektoratet
Cultiva Stiftelsen
Kristiansand kommune
Agder fylkeskommune
Sør-fondet
Strai kjøkken
By Henriette Wulff24 February 2026