Dutch studio MVRDV renovated a neoclassical chapel into the main entrance for The Stedelijk Museum Schiedam, a modern art museum located in Schiedam, the Netherlands. Formerly, the museum's entrance was located in a basement that was difficult to navigate. The renovation of the chapel, which was built by Italian architect Jan Giudici in 1787, gives new purpose to an otherwise neglected space, making the entrance more obvious.
The architects were responsible for adding the bright red shelves, brightening up the somberly classic space. The shelves, which cover one full-height wall and all of the surrounding lower walls, incorporate the reception, cloakroom and cafe counter.
MVRDV co-founder Nathalie de Vries explains, "With one clear and monumental gesture, we have combined many functions whilst at the same time keeping the space as open and usable as possible."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Neoclassical Chapels as Entrances
- Opportunities exist for other museums and public buildings to repurpose underutilized neoclassical spaces as main entrances.
- Incorporating Color in Classic Spaces
- There is potential for designers to use bold colors and modern design elements to update classic spaces such as chapels and create a new ambiance.
- Combining Multiple Functions in One Space
- The trend towards efficiency and flexibility in design creates a growing opportunity to repurpose spaces to accommodate multiple functions at once.
Where This Applies
- Museum Renovations
- Renovations of classic buildings to modernize and improve public spaces are a potential area for growth in the museum industry.
- Hospitality Design
- The use of color and playful design elements in spaces like cafes and dining areas creates opportunities for those in the hospitality industry to stand out and create exciting experiences for their customers.
- Flexible Office Design
- The trend towards multi-functional spaces in modern design also applies to workplace design, creating potential opportunities for those in the office design industry to create more flexible spaces.
