An official opening of the new museum exhibition will take place in the fall of 2020.
New Permanent Exhibition
The Cuypershuis has begun preparations for a new permanent exhibition on the Roermond architect Pierre Cuypers (1827–1921). The new exhibition will focus on the character and ambitions of Pierre Cuypers.
Starting in 2020, visitors will be introduced to the prolific Cuypers, who is best known as the architect of hundreds of churches, chapels, and monasteries. Central to this is the visitor’s sense of wonder: how was he able to accomplish all of this in the 19th century?
The redesign is in line with the growing awareness and appreciation of Cuypers’ work. Since the opening of the Cuypershuis in 2011 and the reopening of “his” Rijksmuseum in 2013, Pierre Cuypers has been the subject of intense interest. So this is the perfect time to delve deeper into his legacy and get a closer look at who he was.
Closer to Cuypers
In the new permanent exhibition, visitors get to look over the famous architect’s shoulder, as it were, to discover how Cuypers managed to create his incredible body of work. Not only will his personality and character be highlighted, but the exhibition will also focus on his ambitious drive for innovation, his sources of inspiration, and his emphasis on craftsmanship.
To achieve this, the exhibition uses historical photographs, letters, and quotes to evoke the atmosphere, combined with the museum’s collection. An introduction gives visitors insight into this renowned Dutchman’s “construction factory,” and interactive elements ensure a multifaceted experience at the museum. Thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign, the ceiling of the Cuypers family’s former living room can once again be seen in all its glory.
Realization
Bureau Caspar Conijn in Amsterdam was commissioned to redesign the exhibition at the Cuypershuis. The firm has created exhibitions for institutions including the Hermitage Amsterdam and St. Petersburg, the Frans Hals Museum, the Onderwijsmuseum, and the Museum Prinsenhof in Delft.
As part of the municipal “Vitale Stad” program, the City of Roermond and the Province of Limburg have provided funding to enhance the permanent exhibition at the Cuypers House. Donations from Rabobank Roermond-Echt, Friends of the Cuypershuis Roermond, the Roermond Foundation 1880, Rockwool B.V., and various (private) contributions to the crowdfunding campaign have also made this possible.