Biotopia Sinne

The "Biotopia Festival", organised by the Bavarian Museum of Natural History – a two-day science outreach festival expected to attract 7,000 visitors and featuring around 100 scientific exhibits – required a design concept.

The commission included the development of an overall design and spatial concept, the design and production of suitable exhibition furniture, and a wayfinding system for the 1,000 m² event site.

Concept

The basic concept behind the exhibition design builds on the "frames and banners" principle that we had developed in previous years and on elements that have already been produced. These have been specifically expanded and adapted: for example, the "Central Display" - the interactive index of all thematic areas - has been supplemented with exhibition platforms made of folded metal elements, which showcase the diversity of the exhibits on multiple levels.

We developed all the newly designed exhibition elements, starting with sketches, moving on to quickly produced model mock-ups, and finally creating 3D models for visualisation and small-batch production.

Exhibition and interactive elements

Functionality and material efficiency were central to the entire concept development process for the exhibition elements, which were designed specifically for a temporary event. Each element was bespoke, tailored to meet specific requirements, including elements for displaying objects and projects, as well as a number of interactive, educational stations that allow visitors to experience the exhibits first-hand.

A wide range of display stands in various designs complements the existing exhibition furniture.

The newly developed, foldable "Biotopia information stand" can be customised with graphic designs for future events.

We developed the "Haptic Station" exhibit, an item to provide a playful tactile experience of various materials that are initially unfamiliar to the visitor.

In the "Acoustics Station", visitors were invited to guess what sounds they were hearing.

Wayfinding system

The tried-and-tested, universal "Biotopia wayfinding system", which we developed as generously proportioned frame-and-banner structures, enabled visitors to find their way around the sprawling event site with ease.

Production

We were able to carry out the final assembly and pre-storage directly on site. This minimized logistical efforts and allowed for quick setup and takedown.

Festival

The festival was attended by more than 7,000 visitors, including both adults and children. The audience was able to enjoy a wide range of activities, including installations, workshops, talks, guided tours, art projects, hands-on activities and concerts.

Entrance panel to the festival