Cruz y Ortiz Architects

the long version

The restoration of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the biggest and most discussed renovations in Dutch history. This book shows the new Rijksmuseum, which will open to the public in April 2013, through the eyes of the architects: the Spanish duo Antonio Cruz and Antonio Ortiz. Cruz and Ortiz have wide experience with alterations to old buildings and are internationally renowned for their sober yet recognizable, clear additions. For the Rijksmuseum they designed a plan centred on routing and orientation. The building, which had 'silted up' over the years, had to be made open and accessible again. Author Jaap Huisman introduces the reader to the design principles of Cruz y Ortiz. He follows their search for solutions for the many problems presented by the complex building - which was for many years the largest building in the Netherlands. The result is a purified museum that has rediscovered its dignity and is ready to display its world-famous collection to over 1 million curious visitors a year.