This idea for a secret art gallery came about as a response to a client who keeps a collection of unusual curiosities. In this residence, we proposed a unique vitrine design that could contain a special exhibition, one which could be shared when desired but could otherwise hide in plain sight. By combining lighting and two-way mirrored glass, dark display niches can remain concealed behind discrete operable panels until narrow beam spotlights are invoked to highlight the collection of objects inside. When vitrine lights are off, the panels provide only a reflection of the gallery space and the collection vanishes. It’s technologically simple, an old theatre trick in fact, but this way the client can conjure an exclusive collection that will materialise in front of special guests.
