Mu.ZEE
2021–
In 2025, Mu.ZEE will close for a major refurbishment of its main galleries. This project aims to redefine the museum’s relationship with the city by drawing on its rich architectural history.
Originally designed by Belgian architect Gaston Eysselinck (1907-1953), the site was first occupied by Spaarzaamheid Economie Oostende (SEO), a cooperative organisation founded in 1892, which developed the Romestraat location as a department store.
In the early 1980s, the complex of buildings connecting Amsterdamstraat, Genstraat, and Romestraat was transformed into an art gallery housing regional artworks, including paintings by the renowned Flemish artist Léon Spilliaert (1881-1946).
After decades of modifications, the design team’s proposal focuses on restoring Eysselinck's original vision. This includes reopening windows to flood the deep-plan building with natural light.
The ground floor will be revitalised for public use, featuring an entrance dedicated to events, activities, and new displays. By revisiting the original material palette of simple steel elements and ceramic floor tiles, the design will reintroduce historical features that bring colour, pattern, and a sense of playfulness back into the space.
New elements will enhance the museum's character as an open resource, inviting broader public engagement. The top floor will now feature spaces for education and restoration with panoramic city views, accessible for the first time.
Working remotely, the design team faced the challenge of understanding and enhancing the existing buildings, an amalgamation of three interconnected buildings, all housing different functions. They began with a detailed 1:50 scale model, aiming to reintroduce original features from Gaston Eysselinck’s design and clarify the building's layout for visitors.
The approach treats the building itself as an artefact to be explored, part of Oostende’s architectural history. Large-scale sketches and 1:10 models were used to test ideas and relationships between spaces, which were then reviewed in Belgium during meetings. This collaborative process highlights the integration of heritage with modern design, creating a museum that is both a historical site and a vibrant public space.