Cité de la dentelle et de la mode

The museum and collection

Located in an authentic 19th century lace factory in Calais, Cité de la dentelle et de la mode is the point of reference for the history of loom woven lace. The site has been restored throughout and enlarged by a contemporary extension whose flowing lines were designed by Moatti et Rivière. Its glass façade, screen-printed with Jacquard card motifs, gives the premises a new identity, determinedly turned towards the future. As an institution for the exchange and conservation of knowledge, Cité de la dentelle et de la mode is a showcase for the profession. In this way, the museum contributes to the reputation of Calais as the world capital of machine made lace.

The collections are displayed in an exhibition space of 2500 m² and divided up into five galleries that highlight know-how and techniques behind lacemaking and the use of lace in fashion and design. The resource centre provides professionals and researchers with a specialised book and fabric library.

The assignment

The museum selected us in a tender process after scoring qualified suppliers by weighing price and quality as well as responses to technical challenges.

The works comprised the manufacturing and integration of wood, metal and glass display cases and the mounting of the artefacts. We developed most of the cases to a special design. Some of the large freestanding cases for instance, required a base structure integrated in a plinth. We also manufactured and installed freestanding cases with curved glass, and the table cases were of a special design with a unique scenographic effect. The outside surfaces of the table cases are mirrors, while on the inside lace is laid out on transparent glass in such a fashion that the external downlighting projects the lace onto the floor.