Just over two years ago, the transformation of Museum Hindeloopen began, when the former town hall was completely stripped back. “That was a good starting point, because it gave us a blank canvas for the renovation,” Bernard explains. “After that, we focused on sustainability, redesigned all the exhibition rooms, and expanded with a visitor centre. The result of this transformation? We are now truly a museum. And the SDB display cases complete it perfectly.”
Reopening by Queen Máxima
That Museum Hindeloopen is something special became clear on 18 June 2024, when none other than Queen Máxima officially reopened the museum. Of course, this was due to the museum’s social and cultural significance—but there is also a personal connection. “Members of the royal family have been admirers of Hindeloopen painting for decades,” Bernard says. “When Willem-Alexander was a baby, he was even presented to the public on a Hindeloopen sleigh decorated with this distinctive art. That sleigh is now on display here.”
“Visitors really switch into museum mode.”
Three-quarters of the gallery behind glass
Museum Hindeloopen has five exhibition galleries. Due to a tight deadline, these were designed by different exhibition makers. The collaboration with SDB resulted in several display cases for Museum Hindeloopen, which now enhance the maritime gallery, the only gallery featuring display cases. “About three-quarters of the gallery is now behind glass,” Bernard explains. “There is a large square display case, an L-shaped wall display case, and a straight version. Our visitors truly switch into museum mode. Thanks to the display cases, it is immediately clear that the objects inside are important.”
A good feeling from the start
The director of Museum Hindeloopen is not only pleased with the final result, but also with the collaboration—from start to finish. “I immediately had a good feeling about SDB, because they were able to move quickly, deliver custom solutions, and really think along with us. For example, they suggested extending the glass in the wall display cases all the way down to the floor, which gives the gallery a more spacious feel. Their lighting advice also worked out beautifully. I can honestly say that this gallery now feels the most museum-like of them all.”
“The execution also went flawlessly: they stick to agreements and take action,” Bernard concludes. “That was extremely helpful given the tight schedule. And if additional requirements came up along the way, they didn’t make a fuss—they simply took care of it. That’s not always the case elsewhere. I’m extremely satisfied!”
Curious to see what exactly is on display behind the glass?
Then read Display Case Story 11: Colourful Hindeloopen.
