The History Behind the Museum
The Vitra Design Museum was founded in 1989 by Swiss furniture manufacturer, Vitra. The museum was designed by architect Frank Gehry and is located in Weil am Rhein, Germany. The museum’s collection focuses on design from the 19th century to present day and includes furniture, lighting, and other design objects.
The museum has hosted many notable exhibitions, including “Memphis: Plastic Field,” which showcased the work of the Memphis design group, and “Alexander Girard: A Designer’s Universe,” which highlighted the work of the influential designer. The museum also features a design library, archives, and a variety of educational programs and events.
Exploring the Museum’s Collection
Visitors to the Vitra Design Museum can expect to see a wide variety of design objects, ranging from classic furniture pieces to cutting-edge contemporary design. One of the museum’s key areas of focus is the work of Charles and Ray Eames, whose designs for furniture, architecture, and film have had a lasting impact on design culture.
The museum’s collection also includes works by other influential designers such as Alvar Aalto, Philippe Starck, and Jasper Morrison. Visitors can expect to see pieces like the Panton Chair, designed by Verner Panton in 1967, and the LC4 Chaise Lounge, designed by Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand.
Current Exhibition: “Night Fever: Designing Club Culture 1960-Today”
The museum’s current exhibition, “Night Fever: Designing Club Culture 1960-Today,” explores the role of design in creating and shaping the experience of club culture. The exhibition features a range of design objects, including furniture, lighting, graphics, and video installations, and traces the evolution of club design from the 1960s to the present day.
Visitor’s will experience the “Night Fever” exhibition curated by Konstantin Grcic in person, or through Virtual Reality technology designed exclusively for the exhibit by art collective Electronic Shadow.
The Museum Shop
For those looking for design inspiration or a unique souvenir, the museum’s shop offers a variety of design objects, books, and other merchandise. Visitors can find iconic design pieces as well as exclusive products created specifically for the museum.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit Destination for Design Lovers
The Vitra Design Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in design, architecture, and contemporary culture. With a rich collection of design objects from the 19th century to today, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and evolution of design.
Whether you’re interested in classic furniture design, contemporary cutting-edge design, or the role of design in shaping social and cultural experiences, the museum’s exhibitions, archives, and educational programs will provide you with a memorable and enriching experience.
