Vandalorum – art, design and nature in the heart of Småland
For those of you who live in Smålandstorpet and are looking for a day trip that combines culture, aesthetics and tranquility , Vandalorum in Värnamo is a place not to be missed. Here – amidst fields and granite hills – rises an architectural masterpiece that houses world-class art exhibitions, designs from the Nordic region’s leading designers and an award-winning restaurant. All in a context that is both rooted in the Småland soil and open to the world.
A museum with an international pulse
Vandalorum is a vibrant art and design center where Swedish and international contemporary artists and designers exhibit. It hosts 10–15 exhibitions each year, always focusing on relevant and engaging themes. One of the iconic red barns is home to Smålands Konstarkiv , where artists with connections to the region can take a seat and meet the audience.
The buildings were designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano , known for the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Whitney Museum in New York, among others. His vision was to create a museum that “grows out of the ground” , taking inspiration from the site’s former haystack. The result is a harmonious, bright and functional space where art can breathe – and the visitor can get lost in thought.
Art to experience – indoors and outdoors
In addition to the changing indoor exhibitions, you can also discover art in the open air , in the form of sculptures by, among others, Joseph Kosuth and Gustav and Ulla Kraitz. Indoors, you will be greeted by designer furniture by names such as Bruno Mathsson, Jonas Bohlin and Mats Theselius.
Whether you are a seasoned art visitor or a curious beginner, you will be met here by a museum that speaks an accessible language , where thoughts can grow and curiosity can flourish.
Piet Oudolf's garden – a living work of art
One of the gems at Vandalorum is the garden, designed by Piet Oudolf – one of the world’s most celebrated garden architects. The 3,500 square meter perennial meadow is created with a naturalistic philosophy , where the plants are allowed to show their beauty all year round, not just in bloom.
The garden is Oudolf's first at a Nordic cultural institution and a work of art in constant evolution. Here, art, biology and a sense of landscape intertwine into an experience that awakens both the senses and thoughts – just as inspiring in May as in November.
A taste experience amidst art
A visit to Vandalorum would not be complete without a meal at the award-winning restaurant . The food is cooked from scratch using the best seasonal ingredients. The bread is baked on site, and both the lunch and à la carte menus are of high quality. It is no coincidence that the restaurant has been named both Cultural Restaurant of the Year and Best Roadside Restaurant along the E4 .
The restaurant is a lively meeting place where artists, designers, travelers and locals gather over lunch or coffee. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and easy to enjoy – just as we think it should be.
Design store with a Nordic expression
Don't forget to visit Vandalorum's design shop before you go home. Here you will find carefully selected design products, art, books, organic toys and unique objects – often with a local or Nordic focus. It is a place where every object carries a thought, an idea, a story.
Discover Vandalorum – with Smålandstorpet as a starting point
From Smålandstorpet you reach Vandalorum within easy reach – a perfect excursion for those seeking inspiration, culture and Småland character in a contemporary form . It is a place where art feels close and the people are inviting.
We at Smålandstorpet are happy to advise you on current exhibitions and help you plan your trip there – whether you want to wander in the garden, delve into design or enjoy a long lunch among the art.
👉 Read more or book your accommodation on our website:
www.smalandstorpet.se
Welcome to a place where the nature of Småland and art meet – in perfect harmony .
