Submarine Channel

In 1988 art historian Caroline Bos and architect Ben van Berkel set up their architectural practice in Amsterdam, then called the Van Berkel & Bos Architectuurbureau. In 1998 they changed the name of their practice to UN Studio. The initials “UN” stand for United Network, a reference to the collaborative nature of the practice comprising a multi-national team of specialist individuals – with a broad spectrum of skills and technical know-how.

Based in Amsterdam, UNStudio has worked with clients worldwide since its launch and has produced a wide range of projects across numerous disciplines – ranging from public buildings and infrastructure, to offices, furniture and urban master plans.

The remarkable design of the Mercedes-Benz Museum makes visitors forget they are in a museum. Based on a unique cloverleaf concept, it comprises three overlapping circles with the centre removed to form a triangular atrium.

This building reflects the essence of UNStudio’s vision – a company that is currently working on over 30 projects all over the world and just opened a second headoffice in Shanghai. As he travels ceaselessly around the globe, sharing knowledge through lectures and presentations, Van Berkel is constantly re-thinking the role of the architect in contemporary society.

 

Credits
Director: Noud Holtman, Camera: Stef Tijdink, Sound: Benny Jansen, Editing: Casper Sikken, Commissioning editor Submarine: Geert van de Wetering, Production Submarine: Olivia van Leeuwen, Production assistance: Marah Haan, Voice Over: Lotje Sodderland, Music/sound design: Big Orange, Produced by Submarine, Commissioned by DutchDFA.

Dutch Profiles is a series of short documentaries produced by Submarine commissioned by DutchDFA about architects, graphic, product and fashion designers in the Netherlands.
dutchdesign.submarinechannel.com

Dutch Profiles focuses on the conceptual, context-oriented and research-based practice of Dutch designers and includes interviews with, among others: MVRDV, 2012 Architects, Jurgen Bey, Claudy Jongstra, Gerard Unger, Paul Mijksenaar, Marlies Dekkers, Alexander van Slobbe and G-Star.