The Red Dot Design Museum presents stylish and practically designed objects that have won awards over several decades. The backdrop of the old colliery offers a unique contrast between old industrial machinery and innovative products. The Kulturhaus has over 2000 objects in its collection.
The world's largest exhibition of contemporary design is not located in America or Asia, but in the heart of the Ruhr region. The Red Dot Design Museum has been located in Essen - on the grounds of the Zollverein World Heritage Site - since 1997. In the boiler house of the former colliery complex, it presents stylish and practical objects from several decades that have won the Red Dot Design Award.
The modern cultural venue clearly benefits from the charm of the old industrial plant. The objects on display, which come from a wide variety of production areas, are given special prominence in the historical setting: the bare aluminum body of an Audi A8 hangs from the ceiling between rusty steel beams in an exhibition hall. Visitors gaze open-mouthed at the magnificent showpiece, which was considered particularly innovative at the time of its production. It is easy to understand its shape and characteristics.
Bicycles, vacuum cleaners and coffee machines
Unusual motorcycles can be found in lovingly designed display sections right next to smart bicycles, vacuum cleaners and coffee machines. During the tour, guests will notice practical suitcases or beautiful furniture not far from used machines or worn-out stoves. It quickly becomes clear that worlds meet here.
Lovers of unusual shapes and colors will hardly cease to be amazed, there is something to see everywhere. The museum has collected a total of 2000 objects from over 45 nations and added them to its collection. On 4000 square meters, it presents everyday and industrial objects that stand out from the mass of products. Touching and trying out many of the objects on display is clearly allowed. Because: "Good design also always means functionality, ergonomics, easy handling and ecological compatibility."
Want more industrial museum charm from the Zollverein World Heritage Site? Then a follow-up trip to the Ruhr Museum or the Phänomania Erfahrungsfeld, a hands-on museum, is just the thing. These are located not far away on the site of the old colliery.
