Museum Dr8888
Drachten, NL | 2024
Mecanoo and Raumplan have been selected by the municipality of Smallingerland and Museum Dr8888 to lead an ambitious renovation and expansion of the museum. This transformative project aims to enhance the museum’s appeal and revitalise Drachten’s city centre. The design will be further developed, with construction slated to start in 2026 and completion expected by early 2028. Museum Dr8888 intends to remain open to the public throughout the entire construction period, ensuring continued access to its collections and exhibitions. Also part of the design team are Pieters Bouwtechniek en Bremen Bouwadviseurs.
Project Details
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- Exhibition space
- Refurbishment
- Extension
- Living room for the city
The Museum Dr8888 is housed in a former monastery. Currently, it has a prominent place on the city of Drachten's Museumplein.
The concept is conceived as a patchwork of abstract shapes, like a De Stijl painting. It offers a diverse range of spaces and multiple routing options.
In Mecanoo and Raumplan’s vision, the monumental building is reimagined as the cultural living room for both locals and tourists. A new iconic entrance transforms the monastery into an accessible, welcoming museum, strengthening its connection to the museum square. The proposal includes an extension with pavilions, designed to a human scale that resonates with Drachten's character. The revitalised museum fosters a strong relationship with both the park and its public garden. A flexible, transparent museum route flows seamlessly between and through the pavilions, guiding visitors effortlessly from interior to exterior and back again.
With respect to the existing building, we aim to increase transparency, flexibility and freedom of movement without reducing the historic quality of the monastery..
While our concept images illustrate the initial vision, the design process will continue to evolve, inviting input from the community. In the coming months, residents will have opportunities to attend open evenings to engage with the plans and share their feedback. We look forward to shaping a dynamic and accessible Museum Dr8888 together.
Team Dr8888
Client
Architect
Construction
Adviser
Year
Museum Dr8888
Raumplan & Mecanoo
Pieters Bouwtechniek
Bremen Bouwadviseurs
2024 - ongoing