Visum Mundi Cinema, The Netherlands public architecture photos, Dutch design images

Visum Mundi Cinema in the Netherlands

20 December 2024

Design: Fare Inc.

Location: Wageningen, Netherlands

Photos: Vigo Jansons

Visum Mundi Cinema, Holland

Visum Mundi is an eco-conscious, boutique cinema located in the heart of Wageningen, Netherlands, that stands as a testament to sustainability, inclusivity, and thoughtful design. More than just a place to watch films, Visum Mundi offers an immersive experience that integrates nature and history, while celebrating the building’s significant past. Designed by FARE INC., the cinema is a harmonious blend of modern sustainability practices and homage to cultural heritage.

The project brief called for a space that not only provided an exceptional cinema experience but also resonated with the site’s historical significance. The building holds a key place in history as the site of the peace treaty marking the end of conflict between Dutch and German forces in World War II. FARE INC. embraced this context, weaving subtle references into the design. Army green tones, for instance, pay homage to the site’s military past without overwhelming the aesthetic, balancing remembrance with contemporary vibrancy.

The cinema’s color palette is both thoughtful and evocative. Military greens are featured prominently, extending from the bar ceiling to the upholstery and even the screen. Complementing these are warm wood tones that adorn the vaulted ceilings, adding a sense of coziness and organic texture. Pierre Frey tapestry fabrics and a lighting scheme inspired by the natural world enhance the connection to Wageningen’s surrounding beauty, creating a space that feels both rooted and inviting. In the bar area, camouflage-inspired fabrics in light blue tones offer a fresh, modern twist, maintaining the thematic cohesion while avoiding cliché.

The bar itself serves as a centerpiece of the cinema’s social space. Its horseshoe shape, paired with backlit steel panels, evokes the glamour of classic cinemas, bridging the past and present. Bespoke artwork curated by FARE INC. further deepens the storytelling, including pieces that reference the building’s origins in 1935. Plans for phase II of the project include a dedicated exhibition space, ensuring that the cinema continues to serve as a cultural hub for the community.

Visum Mundi represents a significant step for FARE INC. as the studio’s first international venture. Known for their expertise in hospitality design, the team has brought their signature attention to detail and atmosphere to this project. Every material choice and design element reflects Wageningen’s unique character, from its natural surroundings to its historical and cultural significance.

The cinema also emphasizes sustainability at every turn, aligning with the eco-conscious values of its local audience. By seamlessly integrating green design principles, Visum Mundi not only reduces its environmental impact but also enhances the overall experience for visitors, blending aesthetics with responsibility.

Visum Mundi is more than a cinema—it’s a celebration of storytelling, history, and community. Through its thoughtful design, it redefines what a cinema can be, offering an inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich experience. By marrying past and present, nature and design, FARE INC. has created a space that resonates deeply with its audience, setting a new benchmark for boutique cinemas worldwide.