Museum De Proefkolonie

On May 1st, the renovated Museum De Proefkolonie opened in Drenthe. The museum is located in the House of Benevolence. The former Colonies of Benevolence were established 200 years ago to combat poverty. In this experiential center, you will learn everything about the history of the Colonies of Benevolence (which were nominated for the World Heritage List in 2019) and their influence on contemporary society.

Through land reclamation and continuous improvements in agricultural methods, the poor were offered prospects of a better life. The Colonies were progressive in their social measures and entirely self-sufficient, which was exceptional. They demonstrate faith in the ability to shape individuals and society.

In Pronk's design, the multimedia experience 'The Proefkolonie: an experiment of benevolence' serves as the main attraction, followed by the interactive post-show 'Doing Good Then, Doing Good Now'. Visitors experience what benevolence is, why it was necessary, and why it is still relevant. Museum De Proefkolonie is located in the House of Benevolence in Frederiksoord.

In 2018, Heijmerink Wagemakers was hired by the Society of Benevolence Frederiksoord to collaborate with Studio Pronk, Shosho, IJsfontein, Semmika, and the team of the Society of Benevolence to develop and realize the experience. Hypsos was contracted by Heijmerink Wagemakers to carry out the museum's interior design: the production of the complete experience and on-site installation.

Spatial design - Pronk
Interactives and games - IJsfontein
Video and animation - Shosho
Light and AV hardware - Hypsos
Exhibition build- Hypsos
Projectmanagement, engineering and realisation- Heijmerink Wagemakers
Photography - Mike Bink