New Gallery by Space Popular at Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam
Architecture and design studio Space Popular has unveiled a vibrant gallery space for the Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam, characterized by a colorful gridded carpet that delineates its collection.
Design Concept
The Collection Gallery, housed in a long, narrow section of the museum, aims to provide a permanent exhibition area for the museum’s physical and digital documentation of Dutch architectural history. Space Popular envisioned a cozy setting, contrasting the typical “bright minimalism” found in contemporary galleries. They sought to create an environment resembling a lounge or club, encouraging visitors to linger longer than usual in a gallery.
The gallery features soft furnishings, inviting visitors to relax and engage with the space. According to the studio, the darker tones and warm colors are designed to encourage a slower pace, allowing guests to appreciate the tactile qualities of the carpet and the overall ambiance.
Innovative Layout
In collaboration with graphic designer Mariana Lobão, the gallery’s layout is organized around a specially designed digitally printed carpet featuring a 50×50 cm grid and color-coded sections, which categorize the collection into five thematic areas. This design promotes a non-linear and interactive experience for visitors.
Wooden podiums, crafted by Rob den Dulk, complement this layout with carpeted surfaces and glass display cases showcasing various physical models. Interactive screens are integrated into the cabinetry, enhancing visitor engagement.
Architectural Features
A notable aspect of the gallery is a 40-meter-long concrete wall, serving as a projection surface, adding a modern twist to the exhibition space. This wall, along with the carpet and podiums, creates a cohesive design that frames the exhibition neatly.
The gallery will remain open at the Nieuwe Instituut until May 2029, with the intention of evolving to reflect current events. Previous projects by Space Popular include a colorful installation at the MAXXI museum in Rome, which aimed to reinterpret Aldo Rossi’s architectural theories for the metaverse.
Photography by Special Thanks Studios.
This gallery showcases not only the history of architecture but redefines how spaces can provoke thought and interaction in the exhibition setting.
