Glowing caterpillar

In Tilburg, Studio Samira Boon and NEXT Architects created a foldable structure to adapt the large Concert Hall to an intimate space during smaller events, such as small chamber music concerts.

Studio Samira Boon and NEXT Architects created a foldable structure to transform the imposing Concert Hall in Tilburg into an intimate space during smaller events.

Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © David de Jong

The TextielLab at the TextielMuseum was closely involved in the project, from the selection procedure through to the development. The new exhibition “Highlights TextielLab: Glowing Caterpillar” traces the process from design to final result.

Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © David de Jong

The desire to adapt the large Concert Hall during small chamber music concerts led to a design competition. Overseen by the TextielLab, designers from a number of renowned Dutch agencies were invited to develop a partition. From the proposals submitted, the theatre’s directors and an expert jury eventually selected the most innovative proposal.

Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © David de Jong

The result of the collaboration between Studio Samira Boon and NEXT Architects is a foldable structure measuring 30 metres in length and almost 3 metres in height. The design takes into account Jo Coenen’s architecture and Peter Struycken’s light art in the auditorium.

Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © David de Jong

The width of the partition is adjustable and the structure can be folded and stored. The design, inspired by the slender shape of a caterpillar, can also change its appearance. The most surprising change becomes apparent when the lights are dimmed and the design’s glow-in-the-dark yarns glimmer softly.

Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © Jeroen de Jong
Samira Boon, Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Theaters Tilburg. Photo © Jeroen de Jong
Samira Boon, detail of the fabric. Photo © David de Jong
Samira Boon, detail of the fabric. Photo © David de Jong


Textile Transformer Glows in the Dark, Tilburg, Netherlands
Designer: Samira Boom and NEXT Architects
Production: TextielLab, frame and textile cover by Beerens Intercover B.V.
Material: glow-in-the-dark yarn, felt yarn
Technique: weaving