Den Natur Musée emool aanescht.
Embracing new ideas and a curious attitude, the redesign isn't just a facelift – it's a gateway to a realm of discovery and learning like never before. Step into a world where curiosity knows no bounds, where every click leads to a new adventure, and where the magic of the natural world comes alive at your fingertips.
Challenge
Currently, the MNHN (Musée national d'histoire naturelle) has a main page and 8 accessible subpages. Unfortunately, this setup easily leads to losing track, and the charm of the local events is by no means reflected. The current page, created in 2011, has struggled to withstand the passage of time.
Strategy
Experience the museum like never before with our new initiative focused on accessibility and fun for all ages! We've created a vibrant platform that goes beyond just imparting knowledge; it's a hub for interactive learning and enjoyment. From engaging exhibits to hands-on workshops, there's something for everyone.
Solution
An immersive redesign that goes beyond the standard museum website. I have curated a virtual experience that invites visitors to delve deeper into the wonders of nature from the comfort of their own homes. Through interactive exhibits, engaging videos, and in-depth articles, users can explore the museum's collections and learn fascinating facts about the natural world.
Navigating the NNHN website felt like an arduous trek through disjointed terrain. Each element seemed to exist in isolation, with no clear connection or cohesion. With a labyrinth of eight separate subpages, finding your way around felt like embarking on a solitary expedition, each destination a world unto itself, disconnected from the broader journey.
Previous design
The museum's design language is diverse yet consistently structured. I emphasise using organic shapes without perfection and incorporating curves throughout the corporate identity for a lively yet structured appearance. Focus on nature, evolution, and history to create a base for exploring and expanding various areas for the coming years, so the design can grow with the progress. The new design should be inviting and exciting to explore.
Design approach
Branding
I've created additional symbols to illustrate the ever-changing nature of history and life, reflecting the museum's core pillars of history, biodiversity, and animals. These symbols are interchangeable and color-coded for clarity: blue for biodiversity, coral for history, and neon yellow for animals/exhibits. They'll also guide navigation within the museum, covering areas like the cafeteria, cloakroom, museum shop, and toilets. More symbols for staff rooms, elevators, and staircases are in the works.
Signage/Symbols
Web & App Design
To enhance the museum experience, I've introduced an app. It offers predefined tours, allows for custom tours, and provides extra exhibit information. A unique feature is a children's section with a playful scavenger hunt, turning kids into museum explorers. Completing tasks earns points, and once enough are accumulated, participants can join Panda or Science Club events for free. The app must be used with headphones in the museum.
Get your guide.
Your ultimate guide to an immersive and interactive museum experience! Explore predefined tours, create your own, or join fellow visitors' tours.
Explore from anywhere.
Explore the diverse range of offerings, from virtual tours to in-depth articles, all designed to ignite your curiosity and spark your imagination. Join us on a journey of exploration and learning, right from the comfort of your own home.
Social Media
For social media, I focused on Instagram due to MNHN's active presence there. Using green-colored posts to mark the transition, I introduced a "Time for change" post, followed by a logo animation and a video from the museum director. Other post ideas include event schedules, exhibition previews, staff behind-the-scenes, quizzes, and informational tidbits in English for a global audience.
Sneak peek content of the current exhibition
Museum event schedule/program
Object of the month explanations
Behind-the-scenes image or video of staff
Recent project image or video material
Quiz with subsequent answers
"Did you know?" informational posts
Promotion of own projects or other museums
Quiz answers
Boradgame
Unable to visit 'Natur Musée'? Play at home! Explore the Natural History Museum through games. Compete in 5 categories, collect pieces for right answers, form rows quickly. Find hidden bonus points in squares with subcategory questions. Master tough questions for max points.
