Stars of Creativity Over Michelin Glory
Francois Vattel Cooking School
Client
Stroom, Den Haag
Indentity design and art installation by Tjep.
Design team
Frank Tjepkema, Annekatrien van Meegen, John Maatman
Production
Bruns
Location
Den Haag
Year
2000
A Creative Kitchen Where Students Shape Their Own Soundscape
In the heart of Den Haag, Tjep. collaborated with François Vatel VMBO cooking school through the Kunst en Bedrijf program. This project blends art and education, empowering young chefs to transform their daily routine—starting with the school bell they often dread.
Three Ovals: Stars of Creativity Over Michelin Glory
At the center hangs a striking artwork of three large oval shapes, each representing one of the three creative stars we awarded the school. Unlike stuffy Michelin stars, these symbolize fun, bold imagination. Spanning 3 x 4 meters and crafted from translucent polyester over a stainless steel frame, the ovals glow softly with internal LEDs, casting a warm light over the atrium and inviting students to gather below.
Interactive Bell: Your Voice Rings the School Day
The real magic lies in the interactive school bell hidden within. Students record whatever they want—laughter, recipes recited aloud, kitchen sounds, or playful tunes—and it becomes the actual bell signaling the start of lessons. This simple twist gives them control over what they love to hate, turning a monotonous chime into a daily burst of their own creativity.
Empowering Spaces with Playful Precision
This installation endures as a lively part of school life, blending Tjep.'s whimsy and craft to prove that even everyday moments can spark extraordinary engagement.