It is the world's only scientifically curated museum dedicated to lock and security technology, showcasing approximately 1,000 artifacts. The German Lock and Hardware Museum in Velbert has now been expanded with a new building under the direction of architect Karsten Fangmann by the city of Velbert. Positioned prominently in the city center, the structure asserts itself confidently while maintaining respectful consideration of the existing built environment. In conjunction with the heritage-protected Villa Herminghaus, it forms a cohesive ensemble without overshadowing the historic structure, while also commanding a strong presence in relation to the adjacent shopping center.

The museum comprises three building volumes: the meticulously restored Art Nouveau villa, coordinated with the heritage preservation authority; a deliberately modest intermediate structure providing barrier-free access and housing technical and sanitary facilities; and the adjoining new construction. This new section contains the entrance foyer—designed to accommodate special events—as well as the permanent exhibition. The design embodies both Velbert's heritage and its contemporary identity. While the villa once belonged to a local industrialist in the lock and hardware sector, the new exhibition hall represents the present day and the current businesses in Velbert's lock and hardware industry. This connection is particularly evident in the facade treatment, where the hall is clad in brushed aluminum panels while the intermediate structure features umbra-gray lacquered aluminum panels.

The interior embodies the principle of an industrial workshop. This is evident in the use of simple materials, such as the epoxy resin-coated screed commonly found in commercial halls, along with stylized keys embedded directly into the epoxy surface. Exposed concrete walls and visible technical elements—including unclad cable trays and ventilation ducts—further reinforce this aesthetic. A striking focal point is a pendant light fixture fashioned from seven historic wire baskets, which serves as a sculptural lighting element in the foyer. The curved reception desk's cladding, in turn, echoes the facade material. From this point, visitors are guided chronologically through the exhibition. The exhibition walls are custom installations designed in the form of houses, each representing a distinct historical period along with corresponding artifacts. The flooring that connects these "houses" functions as both a wayfinding device and orientation aid.

The museum plaza, which can also accommodate museum events, is accessed via two routes: a steel footbridge from the panoramic cycling path and a paved pathway from the city center. Mature plane trees were preserved on site, complemented by new planting beds that echo the horizontal articulation of the new building's facade.

www.schlossundbeschlaegemuseum.de

Photography Credits:

Maren Frankreiter/City of Velbert

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 01|22)