Enhancing wayfinding for Drents Museum
04 April 2025
In 2024, Silo collaborated with Drents Museum in Assen to elevate the visitor experience through a comprehensive new wayfinding system. This project launched alongside the museum’s refreshed brand identity and the unveiling of Labyrinthia—a bold, immersive reinterpretation of its permanent collection.
Navigating a unique cultural space
Drents Museum occupies a remarkable and eclectic architectural setting, blending historical structures with modern design. While rich in character, the museum’s layout – featuring underground sections and a maze of corridors – can be difficult to navigate.
Early version of the design – neither a floorplan, nor a section, nor an axonometric view.
To improve orientation, we developed a visitor-centred wayfinding system that simplifies complexity without oversimplifying the experience. By exploring various visual strategies and testing them directly with museum visitors, we arrived at a custom solution that bridges clarity and character.
Testing our design on site with visitors.
More than directions: a curated experience
Our approach to wayfinding goes beyond signage. It guides visitors through the museum as a curated journey, connecting exhibitions and spaces through thematic and experiential links. This encourages intuitive exploration and a deeper connection with the museum’s stories.
The system adapts effortlessly to the museum’s varied environments, from listed historical buildings to contemporary galleries – enhancing flow while respecting the integrity of each space.
Built on a strong brand foundation
This project is closely aligned with the museum’s new brand identity, ensuring that every visual element—from signage to spatial cues—reinforces a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere. The tone, typography, and design language reflect the museum’s commitment to accessibility, storytelling, and cultural discovery.
A full case study with detailed insights and outcomes will be published soon.
Visitor record for renewed UMU
