Museum expansion

Rijksmuseum Boerhaave is expanding with a new building opposite the museum, on the current site of Het Kijkhuis in Vrouwenkerksteeg. Once the cinema has relocated, the existing building will make way for the new development. The site is expected to be handed over in 2028, after which construction can begin.

Why expand and renovate?

Rijksmuseum Boerhaave is expanding with a new Pavilion on the site of the former cinema opposite the museum. It will give current developments in medicine and the life sciences a permanent place alongside the museum’s historical collection. The Pavilion will house the Life Science & Health Studio, a conference and lecture hall, and a Discovery Square for educational activities.

The project will also create more exhibition space in the existing museum, improve the visitor route and make better use of the historic building.

render van de nieuwe inrichting van het huidige museumcafe en de entree

Life sciences

New medicines, more sustainable production methods and innovative ways of producing food: the life sciences play a role in many areas that affect our daily lives. The field brings together knowledge from disciplines including biology, medicine and technology.

In Rijksmuseum Boerhaave’s new Pavilion, visitors will discover current research in the life sciences. Through concrete examples, the museum will show how scientists work, what their research produces and what it could mean for people and society.

Changes to the existing museum

Moving the conference and lecture hall to the new Pavilion will increase the temporary exhibition space on the ground floor from 235 to 400 square metres. The visitor route will also become easier to navigate, while the first floor of the Turfmagazijn will open to the public. A covered courtyard will reveal the historic structure of the former Dolhuisgracht.

The entrance area will become more spacious and gain a new staircase and lift. This will improve accessibility and provide more room for school groups, conferences and other events.

About the new building

Architecture firm KRFT designed the new building as a contemporary addition to the historic museum.

Its receding façades give the Pavilion a distinctive character. The materials and colours connect it to the Turfmagazijn and its historic surroundings. In this way, old and new form a recognisable whole while retaining their own identities.

The expansion will also make the museum more visible from Vrouwenkerkhof. Clear routes will connect the two buildings and help visitors find their way easily.

Frequently asked questions

We understand that you may have questions about the museum’s expansion. Below, you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

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