Museums are institutions that last hundreds of years, therefore they always purchase the best equipment to showcase their many priceless artifacts. When museums look to purchase museum display cases they require high standards and particular features. Museum display cases have many similarities as well as differences with other categories of glass display cases. They possess similar appearances with jewelry display cases and pedestal display cases, however they differ in that they are generally built more sturdy and are more secure. Museums prefer a clean appearance that offers unobstructed viewing of the items displayed. This means that there is usually no frame surrounding the glass. Security is enhanced by utilizing 3/8" glass and pneumatic locking systems that have no visible key hole. Overall museums require high quality display cases that are delivered fully assembled that are built to last decades. Visually, museums prefer neutral designs and finishes that do not distract visitors from the items being displayed. The most common finishes are standard white, standard black and neutral wood grains which can include stained veneers. Lighting is another important aspect for museums. Lighting can make an exhibit successful or not so much. Good lighting allows the visitor to see the details of objects being displayed. I have been to museums where the lighting was not sufficient or non existent, and although the artifacts I was viewing were incredibly interesting, the lack of light really detracted from the experience and my ability to fully enjoy my visit. LED lights are now standard in all display cases today and provides exceptional lighting. LED bulbs can be installed with different color temperatures from soft warm white to cool white starting around 5000 Kelvin. If color temperature is important, a museum purchasing museum display cases can request a specific color temperature for the LED lights.
Several display case manufacturers offer standard museum display cases. These are generally comprised of counter height display cases and pedestal display cases. Floorboards is an element that can be customized even on a standard model. Different cloths can be selected to complement the artifacts displayed. For example, you may decide that a white cloth wrapped on the floorboard will better serve to display an item or alternatively that a tan cloth made be better suited. Perhaps a museum needs display cases with specific features that are not offered on the standard models, or custom dimensions. If this is the case then the museum should seek out a domestic manufacturer with the ability to produce a custom museum display case. Often times the customization will only require the modification of the dimensions of a standard display case model. It is best to speak to a reputable manufacturer that has experience with this type of production. The manufacturer should work closely with you to determine your needs and outline your requirements on a detailed quote. Beyond the decision of purchasing new display cases, the holistic experience you would like to provide your visitors is a key element to take into consideration when purchasing display case for a museum. This includes the number of display cases, their sizes, their finish and the type of lighting. Inspiration for this can be found by looking at other museums' exhibits and manufacturer websites.
Museum Grade Display Cases