Paintings come to life in Parc Broekhuizen
Parc Broekhuizen is a no-nonsense concept offering a visual and culinary journey of discovery taking place in the grounds of an authentic country estate. The estate has had various functions and residents over the years, including once being home to wealthy merchant Cornelis Jan van Nellesteyn, who died there in 1832. Parc Broekhuizen is where it all comes together: an inspirational setting, a beautiful history and, above all, a remarkable culinary experience – coordinated by top chef Marco Westmaas – for all who hunger for high-quality innovative cuisine. The estate offers two restaurants, a hotel, room for corporate events and is, undoubtedly, the perfect setting for a better brand of party.

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Historical becomes hysterical
Strategic and creative agency Fitzroy was asked to think about the positioning, identity and translation of all necessary elements to make Parc Broekhuizen a success. The buildings on the estate have a historical feel, but all this grandeur can be intimidating too. So Fitzroy wanted a more light-hearted approach to communication in order for Parc Broekhuizen to broaden its appeal to also include a younger crowd. Not by going crazy, but by turning historical elements into something hysterical. The estate houses five impressive works of art painted by Willem Joseph Laguy in the 1780s. These paintings, which depict Voltaire’s tragedies, now form the basis for all Parc Broekhuizen communication.

Leading figures reworked by gif-artist James Kerr
A number of leading figures from the aforementioned artworks now play leading roles in Parc Broekhuizen’s communication. They find themselves placed in a new setting and have been given a social upgrade with a dose of online humour. These new “pieces of art” can be found throughout the estate including on menus, beermats, memo pads, as gifs, but also as part of the buildings’ interiors (designed by interior architect Judith van Mourik). Canandian gif-artist James Kerr was invited by Fitzroy to help with the creation of these hysterical situations. Parc Broekhuizen’s communication has also inspired the creation of its very own font.

Concept: Fitzroy Amsterdam
Gif artist: James Kerr