The museum's oldest structure, Hotel de Coninck, was built between 1752 and 1754 for a wealthy merchant family.
The 1992 modern wing was designed by architect Willy Verstraete, intentionally creating a contrast with the 18th-century mansion.
The collection originated from the private gathering of the 'Union des Arts Industriels' at the end of the 19th century.
The museum holds a significant collection of Art Nouveau furniture, reflecting Belgium's historic influence on the movement.
It was the first museum in Belgium to be recognized as a museum for design, securing its status as a national reference point.
Design Museum Gent holds the only collection in Belgium dedicated exclusively to design, spanning from the 15th century to the present day. It is housed in two distinct parts: a preserved 18th-century mansion, Hotel de Coninck, and a stark, modern wing built in 1992. The collection comprises over 22,000 objects, focusing primarily on furniture, lighting, and industrial design. The historic wing features authentic stucco ceilings and period-appropriate decorative arts. The modern wing hosts temporary exhibitions that often focus on contemporary design practices and social issues. The museum emphasizes the evolution of Belgian design alongside international movements like Art Nouveau and Art Deco. It serves as an active research center for material culture and historical design preservation.
The staircase inside the historic Hotel de Coninck mansion for its preserved period architecture.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding historic Patershol neighborhood.
Check the official website for temporary exhibitions, as they rotate frequently and occupy a large portion of the museum space.
Do not mistake the modern wing's entrance for the only way to experience the building; ensure you traverse the passage leading into the 18th-century mansion.
Closed on Mondays.
