Miffy museum, Utrecht

Architect: Soda

Wood type: American Red Oak
Dimensions: Linear ProLine 15x90 mm with a 15 mm joint
Finish: Transparent

During the renovation and expansion of the Miffy museum in Utrecht, the elegant and versatile Derako® wooden walls and ceilings were used. This renovation, which nearly doubled the available space, was essential to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

In collaboration with architectural firm Soda, responsible for the design, Hunter Douglas Architectural supplied a solid wood linear ceiling and wall system totaling 680 m². This high-quality solution integrates perfectly with the playful and modern identity of the museum.

Seamless integration of wood in design
The solid wood linear ceiling and wall system was applied throughout the museum, both on flat and sloping surfaces. This creates a unique and sleek aesthetic. Thanks to the precision and high-quality finish of the Derako^® linear system—featuring crafted wooden slats and an innovative suspension system—it was seamlessly integrated into Soda's creative and playful design.

The implementation
The system supplied by Hunter Douglas Architectural was crafted from red oak (15x90 mm with a 105 mm modulation) and covered an impressive 463 m² of ceiling space and 215 m² of wall surface. This solid wood linear system proved to be the ideal choice for this project.

Peter van Laar, General Manager at Derako^®, the wood solutions brand of Hunter Douglas Architectural, explains: “The solid wood linear system was the perfect choice for this project because it offers both aesthetic beauty and practical functionality. It adds warmth to the museum's contemporary design and meets the strict requirements of both the architect and the client. We are proud to have contributed to the renovation of a museum with such significant cultural value.”

The power of wood in architecture
The Miffy museum, where learning, discovery, and connection take center stage, benefits greatly from the unique properties of wood. Research shows that wood reduces stress, encourages movement, and supports healthier development in children. Additionally, it fosters social interaction, making it an ideal choice for an environment designed for young visitors and families.