Five international architectural teams have been selected to compete in the prestigious design competition for the transformation of the Louvre Museum in Paris. The French Ministry of Culture announced on October 10, 2025, that these multidisciplinary groups will move forward in the competition to reimagine the world's most visited museum through the ambitious "Louvre - New Renaissance" project.
The groundbreaking initiative, launched by the French President in January 2025, aims to modernize the iconic museum while enhancing visitor experience and improving working conditions for staff. The project represents an unprecedented effort to redefine how visitors experience one of the world's most treasured cultural institutions, ensuring better public reception and an enhanced overall visit experience.
The selection process drew remarkable international interest, with approximately 100 applications submitted from around the globe. Two-thirds of these applications came from international consortiums, demonstrating the project's global appeal and significance. An international jury composed of 21 members convened on October 7 to evaluate the submissions and make their selections.
According to the Ministry of Culture, "The quality, reputation, and multidisciplinary nature of the applications demonstrate both the great interest generated by the project, the unprecedented scope of the program, and the complexity of the challenges to be addressed." The ministry emphasized that this response reflects the project's unique scale and the intricate nature of transforming such a historically significant and operationally complex institution.
The five selected teams bring together expertise spanning architecture, scenography, urban planning, and landscape design. Each consortium represents a combination of renowned professionals with the diverse skills necessary to tackle the multifaceted challenges of renovating and modernizing the Louvre while preserving its historical integrity and cultural significance.
The Louvre Renaissance project represents more than just a physical renovation; it embodies a comprehensive vision for the future of museum experiences. The transformation will address current operational challenges while positioning the museum to better serve the millions of visitors it receives annually. The project also prioritizes the working environment for museum staff, recognizing that exceptional visitor experiences depend on optimal conditions for those who work within the institution.
This major undertaking reflects France's commitment to maintaining the Louvre's position as a world-leading cultural institution while adapting to contemporary needs and expectations. The selected teams will now proceed to develop detailed proposals that balance innovation with respect for the museum's rich heritage and architectural significance.
