Since the beginning, Tilman Thürmer, Founder of COO, has worked closely with Zhang Lin, President of Shanghai Museum of Glass, to create a constantly evolving influential cultural institute. Involved from the beginning, Tilman has helped to keep breathing new life into the museum park which has grown to a major attraction in Shanghai. Instead of eradicating all traces of the past, the park translated existing structures and elements into an impactful design language, fusing with the memories of the place to forge a compelling narrative of the endless possibilities of glass.

Every inch of the museum park is created to unfold a multi‑layered story of glass, as well as its relationship with people and with the memories of the place. Sometimes informative and other times philosophical, the exhibitions and facilities constitute a symphony of artistic presentation and interactive displays.

It is the space’s adjoining elements and features that truly bring the Shanghai Museum of Glass park to life, and make it into a cultural destination. Young visitors are invited to learn about glass in a playful and educational environment at the first design museum built for children in China. The DIY workshops offer parents and children the opportunity to enjoy working with glass. A design-focused museum, connected with the Main Hall with a colourful glass bridge, featuring trendsetting glass design and works of art from the museum’s collection. Other venues, such as a rainbow inspired chapel and a glass maze offer opportunities for a wide range of activities at the park with elevated experiences. Finally, a museum café provides a brief rest and refreshment after a day’s visit. These venues are connected experiences through the same theme — glass. The diversity shows how the museum creates an engaging experience and challenges the traditional idea of a museum.

The strategic decision adding outdoor spaces is crucial to establishing the museum park as a diverse and inclusive cultural landmark. The venues include an outdoor stage, an open-air live glass-blowing theatre and kids playground. Artist studios, created for renowned Chinese artists as part of the collaboration between the museum and the artists, bringing art of glass closer to the public.

Started out with determination to be a cultural destination of global significance, the museum has remained true to its original aspiration, and the achievements are recognised by international awards and the growing popularity both at home and abroad. Tilman has taken the role as Vice President of the museum and helped President Zhang Lin at every step for last decade, to break the rules, to realise daring concepts and make sure that Shanghai Museum of Glass keeps setting new standards for museums in China.