Pien Niehe
Europe Press Office,Amsterdam
On 13 April the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam will be reopened by Queen Beatrix, finalising a ten year renovation project.
For the first time in history the 19th century museum building received a huge transformation as well as the presentation of the collection. The architects Cruz and Ortiz were commissioned to lead the design team responsible for the refurbishment and modification of the Rijksmuseum.
Arup – in joint venture with Royal Haskoning / Van Heugten and DGMR – was subsequently appointed to work on the buildings services and building physics aspects of the renovation, as well as the lighting design of the iconic building, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Amsterdam.
“"The architecture of Cruz y Ortiz blends and contrasts with the restored Cuypers masterpiece bringing the Rijksmuseum back to international prominence. The unseen hand of Arup (and its JV partners) creates a balance in art conservation and display." Joop Paul, Project Director Arup
The renovated museum is expected to attract 1.75 million to 2 million visitors annually, which would bring the Rijksmuseum into the top 20 most visited museums worldwide.
“"The museum has regained much of its 19th century grandeur, paired with 21st century lighting and technology." The New York Times
After the successful completion of the main building and its corresponding annexes, the ‘Philips Wing’, which housed the exhibition while the main building was being renovated, is now set to be refurbished, again with Arup’s involvement.