New Energy
for the Last Farmhouse in Manhattan
The Dyckman Farmhouse Museum is Manhattan's oldest remaining farmhouse and the only Dutch Colonial structure in New York City. Dating back to 1785, the half-acre property serves as both historic landmark and community resource, hosting exhibitions and educational programs in Inwood. The challenge was creating a visual identity that communicated the museum's unique character while highlighting its garden amid the dense urban landscape.
Inspired by the museum's rustic artifacts and botanical collection, the identity blends raw outlines of simple forms with a surprising color palette—juxtaposing earthy and acid tones to stand out against the surrounding cityscape. Straightforward typography and minimal compositions echo the property's singular presence while nodding to contemporary Dutch design, bridging 18th-century roots with its role as a vital cultural asset for contemporary communities.
Unrealized Proposal
Studio: Bruce Mau Design
Team: Elvira Barriga (Creative Direction), Tom Keogh (Project Management)
Role: Identity Design
Year: 2014
Inspired by the museum's rustic artifacts and botanical collection, the identity blends raw outlines of simple forms with a surprising color palette—juxtaposing earthy and acid tones to stand out against the surrounding cityscape. Straightforward typography and minimal compositions echo the property's singular presence while nodding to contemporary Dutch design, bridging 18th-century roots with its role as a vital cultural asset for contemporary communities.
Unrealized Proposal
Studio: Bruce Mau Design
Team: Elvira Barriga (Creative Direction), Tom Keogh (Project Management)
Role: Identity Design
Year: 2014