Picture: IGLHAUT + von GROTE
The Deutsches Marinemuseum (German Naval Museum) shows the history of the German naval tradition through the ages. It collects and preserves exhibits relating to all German navies and investigates their historical context. The permanent exhibition is being remodelled with the aim of enhancing representation of parallel events in culture and politics. The exhibition is conceived as a didactic preparation before the visitor encounters the large-scale open-air exhibits. Integrating themes and images from contemporaneous events in cultural history while also incorporating personal histories produces a broader picture of the navy’s socio-historical context. This is underpinned by projections and audio features which allow each section of the exhibition to tell its story creatively. Rounded and curving architectural elements reference the contours of ships, with space partitioned by an oval display case and sinuous walls. Graphic floor lines, a reference to the depth contours found on sea charts, create a dynamic impact. An extension (architecture: Dirk Lohe, Wilhelmshaven) provides additional space for a large foyer and café.