Real Architecture: Michiel Riedijk, Neutelings Riedijk Architects presents the The Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision, Hilversum

17 October 2007

  • Michiel Riedijk, presenting in Tate Modern's Starr Auditorium
  • © Neutelings Riedijk Architects
  • Alex de Rijke and Michiel Riedijk in conversation

Rotterdam practice Neutelings Riedijk Architects have created a magical, striking structure to house their nation's repository for audio and television recordings, The Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision. With a brief that included the need for tightly controlled climatic and artificially lit storage areas, as well as creating a workable, attractive environment for visitors and staff, Riedijk explained how they created a structure part hidden-and-subterranean and part local landmark as a response. The striking, stained-glass five floor façade, the result of a collaboration with graphic designer Jaap Drupsteen, made with coloured, high relief glass panels belied the five floors of storage securely below ground. The exterior imagery came from video stills taken from the institute's archives linking form and usage.

Putting the questions to Riedijk was Alex de Rijke, founding director of dRMM and architect of the much lauded £21m government-funded Kingsdale School project.