Immerse yourself in the wonder of writing by hand with this brand-new immersive experience.
Our handwriting differentiates us from one another, and forms a part of our identity. Even as we type our way into work and play in this digitalised world we live in, very little comes close to the feeling of receiving a handwritten note. Montblanc has created a journey of discovery at the new Montblanc Haus in Hamburg, a city central to the history and identity of the brand.
We envisioned to create a special home for the art of writing, a place where people could discover or rediscover the incredible power of handwriting and the creativity, imagination and emotion it unlocks in everyone.”
Nicolas Baretzki, Montblanc CEO
Designed by Nieto Sobejanos Arquitectos and inspired by Montblanc’s heritage, Montblanc Haus is located right next to its headquarters and the manufacture where its writing instruments including the iconic Meisterstück are crafted. The design concept of the building itself is an homage to the historical shape of writing instrument packaging with the iconic colour combination of the Montblanc brand reflected in the building’s dark silhouette with shades of white on the inside.
Set across 3 levels and 3600sqm, this immersive brand experience brings to life Montblanc’s belief in the value of writing and the ways in which it helps people express their full potential and ultimately leave their mark on the world. Stepping into Montblanc Haus, visitors will encounter the work of Paris-based artist Wendy Andreu – a piece created from wool coloured with ink and filled with surprising details that reveal themselves with every look: words, waves, the shape of mountains. Visitors will then journey through the permanent exhibition that is defined by different themes:
- The Pulse of Writing – an immersive experience that highlights the power and value of writing
- Montblanc’s Legacy and Vision – the story of the Maison and its icon the Meisterstück
- Craftsmanship and Innovation – a showcase of the know-how of the brand’s writing instrument creation and production
- Handwriting from around the World – different types of handwriting translated into artwork
- Montblanc Collections – an exploration of different collections including Limited Editions and High Artistry pieces
- The Mark Making space – an Autograph Library with 30 original handwritten notes from Ernest Hemmingway and Albert Einstein, to Frida Kahlo to Spike Lee combined with a digital guestbook experience for visitors to leave their own mark
The Montblanc Haus has allowed us to uncover some treasures from our archive that we are eager to share with the world. This experience is not only dedicated to all the incredible stories that have been written over time including our very own, but to all the great stories that are yet to be written, as we invite our visitors to be inspired to leave their mark.
Vincent Montalescot, Montblanc EVP of Marketing
Other than uncovering more about the story of Montblanc from its founding days more than a century ago to the present, visitors can also experience the wonder of writing by hand in a very personal way, including testing Montblanc writing instruments and sending postcards with their thoughts around the globe. The Writing Atelier within, also opens a series of classes including the art of calligraphy, creative writing and children’s classes to visitors. As part of its commitment to the culture of writing, Montblanc will also host special classes for disadvantaged children and young adults to inspire them to use writing to express themselves creatively.
Finally, there is also a chance to tour the Montblanc Archives (by special arrangement), shop for exclusive Montblanc Haus products at the boutique, or simply round off the visit by resting at the café within.
Images courtesy of Montblanc, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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