The small Frisian town of Hindeloopen has fewer than 900 residents, but it carries stories as if it were a metropolis. These stories come to life even more vividly after a major renovation of Museum Hindeloopen. “Thanks in no small part to our great collaboration with SDB,” says director Bernard Hilgers. “They really thought along with us—about the budget, the design, and the planning.”

More than two years ago, the transformation of Museum Hindeloopen began when the former town hall was completely stripped down. “That was great, because it gave us a blank canvas for the new build,” says Bernard. “We then made the building more sustainable, redesigned all the exhibition rooms, and added a visitor center. The result of this transformation? Now we truly are a museum. And the SDB display cases are the finishing touch.”

Reopening by Queen Máxima

The significance of Museum Hindeloopen was made clear on June 18, 2024, when none other than Queen Máxima performed the official reopening. Not only because of the museum’s social value, but also due to a personal connection. “Members of the royal family have been fans of Hindeloopen painting for decades,” Bernard explains. “Willem-Alexander was even shown to the public as a baby in a Hindeloopen sleigh decorated with this artwork. That very sleigh is now on display here.”

“Visitors immediately switch into museum mode”

Three-quarters of the room behind glass

Museum Hindeloopen has five exhibition rooms. Because of the tight deadline, several exhibit designers worked on the setup. SDB played a key role in the maritime room, the only one with display cases. “About three-quarters of that room is now behind glass,” Bernard says. “There’s a large square display case, an L-shaped wall case, and a straight one. Visitors immediately switch into museum mode. The display cases make it instantly clear that the objects inside are important.”

A good feeling from the start

The museum director is not only happy with the final result, but also with the cooperation throughout the project. “I had a good feeling about SDB from the start. They’re quick to respond, offer tailor-made solutions, and truly think along with you. For example, they suggested extending the glass in the wall cases all the way to the floor, making the room feel more spacious. Their lighting advice also turned out beautifully. I can honestly say this is now the most ‘museum-like’ room of them all.”

“The execution was flawless, too: they stick to their promises and get things done,” Bernard concludes. “That was a huge relief given the tight schedule. And if something extra came up, they didn’t make a fuss—they just handled it. That’s not always the case elsewhere. I’m extremely satisfied!”

Curious to know what’s actually behind the glass?

Then read Display Story 11: Colourful Hindeloopen.