INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE • EXHIBITION DESIGN
SCHLAF
An Immersive Exhibition Exploring the Depths of Sleep
Role
Interior Architecture M.A.
Task
Development of an immersive exhibition exploring the depths of sleep
Service phases 01–03, partial phase 05
Timeline & Scope
03–07 2020:
Master's Thesis, at HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Hildesheim
Tools
Vectorworks, Adobe Creative Suite
Challenge
The relentless societal pressure to perform leaves millions of Germans unable to find rest. Although sleep makes up a third of our lives and is essential for recovery, many suffer from sleep disorders – with serious consequences such as severe accidents and long-term health damage. This called for a preventive, experiential solution that bridges knowledge and emotion.
Concept
Horizontal Experience Layers
The exhibition follows a clear horizontal zoning from light to dark. Nine thematic zones guide visitors on an intuitive journey through the depths of sleep – from a gentle introduction to an uplifting farewell.
Multi-sensory Discovery Tour
Knowledge from somnology, psychology, history, and medicine is woven together with interactive, multi-sensory experiences. Visitors hear, feel, smell and actively encounter sleep – not just theoretically, but in a direct, embodied way.
From Knowledge to Experience
The visitor becomes the protagonist: analysing their own sleep, exploring historical sleep cultures, testing their inner clock, and diving into dream worlds. Complex knowledge becomes tangible and personally relevant.
Prevention through Entertainment
The exhibition makes sleep hygiene entertaining and motivating. Every visitor leaves as an expert on their own sleep – equipped with practical tools and the desire to make daily life more sleep-friendly.
Design & Visualization
The design transforms the 700 m² exhibition space into an atmospherically warm and deeply calming environment. As visitors move further into the space, darkness gradually deepens – a leitmotif symbolising the journey into the depths of sleep. Each of the nine zones has its own distinctive staging: from the gentle "Good Night" introduction through the darkened maze of sleep disorders to the luminous "Good Morning" finale with light simulation and the scent of coffee and tea. The final renderings reveal the immersive power of the exhibition: flowing forms, interactive exhibits such as oversized nightcaps, the transparent human figure, and the great balance of sleep hygiene.
Results & Insights
A Vibrant New Gathering Place
The exhibition creates a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to talk about sleep – a social space that reduces isolation and raises awareness.
Respectful Transformation
What began as pure information-sharing became an emotional journey of experiences. The historic fabric of the building is used sensitively and combined with contemporary design – a successful dialogue between past and present.
Lasting Value
Visitors leave not only informed, but changed. They take with them practical tools, new routines, and a deeper understanding of their own sleep – a meaningful contribution to societal health prevention.
The exhibition "Schlaf" proves: with sensitive interior architecture, a societal problem can become an inspiring, vibrant place – one that not only conveys knowledge, but strengthens community and motivates people toward a healthier life.