The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has a rich and varied collection of artwork by Van Gogh and other artists of the 19th century. The museum was a success and it started to substantially exceed the number of visitors planned per year. This resulted in logistical and security challenges. Moreover, the Museum Store was outdated and could no longer keep up with the international image and reputation of the museum. There was a strong need for a new environmental design and we took on the challenge, keeping in mind the iconic monumental status of the building, designed by Gerrit Rietveld in 1973.
Solution
By taking Rietveld’s architectural framework and guidelines as a starting point, we started integrating our concept and vision into the building. We wanted to draw attention to a staircase shaped object. The interior elements were designed in black and white, allowing the colorful products to stand out and shine. Also, we placed a central cash register desk in the middle, which allowed for an easy access and flow.
Result
A strong impulse in visitor’s experience and a steep increase in sales. The project won the ‘Best of the Best’ award at the Red Dot Design Awards in Germany.
Designed by DAY