The Museum of Applied Art Cologne, also known as Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln (MAKK), is a significant cultural institution situated in the heart of Cologne, Germany. Established in 1888, this museum is dedicated to the fascinating world of design and applied arts, with a particular emphasis on arts and crafts. The history of MAKK is as rich as its collection. The initial idea for the museum was sparked by the 1880 Gewerbeausstellung, a trade exhibition that showcased a wide range of artistic and industrial products. Inspired by this, the mayor of Cologne, Hermann Heinrich Becker, decided to create a permanent exhibition site, marking the birth of MAKK. The museum was initially located in the Overstolzenhaus, a late Romanesque residential building, before moving to its current location in 1955. MAKK is housed in a building designed by the renowned Cologne architect Rudolf Schwarz. The museum's exterior is characterized by its modernist style, featuring clean lines and a simple, rectangular shape. The concrete and glass facade is punctuated by large, square windows which allow natural light to permeate the galleries. As you step inside, you are greeted by an expansive interior that houses more than 100,000 objects spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. The collection includes furniture, textiles, ceramics, metalwork, glassware, graphic design, and jewelry. The museum's layout is thoughtfully designed to guide visitors through various periods and styles, from the Gothic and Renaissance to Art Nouveau and contemporary design. MAKK is also home to the "Design Department - Collection of the 20th and 21st Century". This permanent exhibition traces the development of design from the beginning of industrialization to the present day and includes iconic pieces from designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Philippe Starck, and Dieter Rams. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and diverse educational programs, making it a vibrant hub for design enthusiasts and art lovers. Its unique combination of historical and contemporary pieces provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of design and applied arts over the centuries. Throughout its over a century-long existence, MAKK has remained committed to its mission of inspiring and educating visitors about the world of design and applied arts. It is a place that bridges the past and the present, serving as a testament to Cologne's vibrant cultural history and its enduring love for art and design.