Bagvæggen

Bagvæggen, meaning “the back wall” in Danish and Norwegian, is a term used to describe the rear wall of a space, building, or stage set. In architecture and construction, the bagvæggen forms part of the building envelope and typically bears structural loads, provides insulation, and helps define the room’s depth and proportions. It may include openings such as windows or service penetrations, though these are often positioned on the principal or front-facing facade. The choice of materials and finish for the bagvæggen—such as plaster, gypsum board, brick, concrete, or timber—affects thermal performance, acoustics, and moisture management.

In stage scenery and exhibition design, the bagvæggen serves as a backdrop. It provides a fixed surface for scenery, projection, lighting effects, or mounting of display elements, and is often treated for color, texture, or compatibility with lighting.

Interior design practitioners may treat the bagvæggen as a feature wall, applying paint, wallpaper, tiling, or cladding to create visual emphasis or to coordinate with furnishings. For older or exterior walls, the term also appears in renovation contexts, where retrofit insulation, vapor barriers, and moisture control are important to prevent damp and cold bridging.

The exact implications of the bagvæggen vary by context, but it generally refers to the rear boundary of a space and plays a role in structural integrity, energy efficiency, and aesthetics.