After having been closed for renovation and expansion for the last decade, the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art has finally reopened its doors to the viewing public. This architectural marvel stands as a proud example of the marvels already found in Amsterdam. Designed by the world-famous firm Benthem/Crouwel, the Stedelijk has already been dubbed ‘The Bathtub’ by locals for its bulbous, ceramic look.

The new space, which consists of an additional floor above the original, is light and airy; a far different feel than the 1895 ground floor building, and far more suited to the exhibition of a contemporary collection. With such a preponderance of space, the Stedelijk is now able to showcase a whole variety of art from the 1870’s up to now.

One half of the ground floor is dedicated to earlier modern art, focusing on visual arts from 1870 to the 1960’s, spread across multiple galleries. A massive variety of artwork is on show from such powerhouses as Pollock, Kandinsky, Matisse, Mondrian, Van Gogh and artists of the CoBrA group amongst others. There is also a delightful photography exhibition as well as some changeable installations.

The other half of the ground floor is dedicated to industrial and graphic design and applied arts. These are divided into three historical periods; modernism (1900-1950), post-war modernism (1950-80) and post modernism (1980-present). A whole variety of artwork, using different materials is on show; glassware, jewellery, ceramics, furniture, posters and textiles from some of the world’s most prolific designers.

The new second floor is solely dedicated to showcasing art from 1960 onwards. There is a rotating selection of pieces from a plethora of different names including Warhol and a nice selection of young Dutch artists are also on show. The art on the second floor really fits in with the feel of the building and everything about it screams Modern Art Museum.

After such a long wait, it seems only right to go and have a look at the new-and-improved Stedelijk. Whether you’re a returnee traveller who hasn’t seen it yet or a first-timer to the city, a visit to Amsterdam would now not be complete without a leisurely few hours stroll around this vast complex of modernism.

Contact Information

Address: Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Phone: +31205732911

Cost: €15

Hours: Tues. and Wed. 11-5; Thurs. 11-10; Sat. and Sun. 10-6; closed Mondays

Website: www.stedelijk.nl