After an eight-month renovation by the Dutch-based firm Studio Marco Vermeulen, the Biesbosch Museum in Holland is finally open to the public. Located in the southern town of Werkendam, the museum is home to permanent exhibitions that detail the historical development of the region, and also holds temporary galleries for more contemporary art. The museum’s original hexagonal structure, which is surrounded by a river and marshlands, has been retained. A 10,764-square-foot wing, which features a restaurant and gallery space, was added during the renovation.

The most striking change done by Studio Marco Vermeulen is the roof, which is covered with grass and herbs, adding ecological value, while aligning with the region’s landscape. The design, which allows visitors to walk through the canopy of grass, minimizes energy consumption, and serves as additional insulation and a heat buffer in the summer months. What’s more, water from the surrounding river flows through the same piping to cool the museum.

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