Offices Het Scheepvaartmuseum, Amsterdam

The office floor of the National Maritime Museum has been redesigned as an open and inclusive working environment that reflects contemporary ways of working. Spread across approximately 4,000 m², a cohesive office landscape has been created in which interaction, concentration and flexibility take center stage.

Architecturally, the building is organized into four quadrants that were originally separated from one another. This division has been removed to enhance transparency and mutual connectivity. By breaking down physical barriers, the roof structure now flows as one continuous space, allowing visual connections between the different work areas. The distinctive beam structure forms the starting point for the spatial layout. By positioning circulation routes beneath the beams, a more dynamic and generous spatial experience emerged, with flexible zones for meetings, greenery and informal work.

In close collaboration with the staff, a new layout was developed through interactive workshops. Two quadrants are dedicated to focused work, one to meeting spaces, and one to social interaction. This latter quadrant has a more informal atmosphere, featuring a coffee bar and seating areas that encourage spontaneous encounters.

In the spirit of the museum’s overall sustainability efforts, the furniture was designed using as many circular materials as possible, with existing pieces reused and transformed—from storage units to acoustic booths and a bar made from reclaimed oak. The color palette and custom-made carpets, inspired by the museum’s collection, add a contemporary touch.

Architect: Kim Wandel
Team: Sterre Joore, Liesbeth van der Pol, Wouter Weelink
Number: 1802
Status: Built
Year: 2023-2025
Client: Het Scheepvaartmuseum

Please download the project PDF for more info about this project.