Modular Exhibition Architecture Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Copenhagen Denmark
Our idea was to reimagine the temporality of the vitrine often discarded after use into something more permanent and reusable, reconfigurable and adaptable. A robust table and glass top suitable for myriad exhibition types. Demountable and re-assemblable, poised for future use, the vitrines can be understood as frame-like objects composed of two component parts, base table and glazed case. Modular, demountable, and re-assemblable they are robust in construction method to allow reassembly and reconfiguration for future exhibition.
Seen as a family of objects their modular format assumes a figurative quality when seen in multiple, the diagrid space frame appears as structural motif lending structural rigidity to minimise section size and weight. It references the glass house motifs of Glyptoteket’s Vilhelm Dahlerup interiors. Similarly the the heavily riveted doors of Hack Kampmann’s later addition. A central beam in mirror polished steel stands in contrast to the table top and split legs it facilitates. The tables constructed entirely in cold rolled steel section are laser cut and mechanically bolted for ease of assembly. Section size and weight is optimised to reduce material for ease of handling.
Lifted from the floor without the weight of a typical plinth, they have a delicate table like quality. The glass vitrine case as with the base is composed of plate glass components, surfaces are pre-drilled and demountable to allow curatorial flexibility. Lighting, temperature and humidity are managed via integrated mechanisms within the self supporting inner structure. The vitrines offer a generous surface, gathering objects of similar thematic content together. Within, climate and surface, angle and orientation are controlled by a felt lined landscape specific to each case.
In multiple the vitrines appear as an ensemble. Without hierarchy or set route this allows a free flow within the exhibit. Viewed in close proximity or from distance, the cases set against a vivid backdrop allow an immersive experience. On closer inspection the vitrines reveal detail, mechanical fixings are robust in scale and mirror polished, illustrative of their function. Subtle inclination within the inner felt landscapes provides a textural contrast to the steel tables beneath. The vitrines and contents within are foregrounded by bright light from above. Arranged in precise spatial composition, cases are pushed close to the edge or centered.