Do you have a price list for your display cases?

Most of our exhibit furnishings are manufactured-to-order per our client's unique requirements. Although our projects tend to have similar characteristics, most differ with regard to materials, required access, conservation issues and aesthetic detailing. Detailed estimates are provided on the basis of drawings and/or written specifications.

How does one get inside the display space?

Over the years, we've developed a number of sophisticated hardware systems that not only provide a visually unobtrusive means of access, but also tight seals for controlling dust or maintaining microenvironments. Typically, a specific hardware approach is recommended after careful analysis of the access requirements for a given exhibit along with other criteria such as access frequency or budget. Our standard hardware is often modified and in many instances, new hardware developed to accommodate individual project requirements.

What types of options or accessories are available?

With regard to the aesthetic detailing of our display cases, the variation is virtually limitless. In general, display cases may be: framed or frameless, any type of wood or metal finish, capable of providing a micro-environment, and constructed in a wide range of acceptable materials. Other accessories include shelving, interior display platforms or mounts, lifts or moving devices and several types of lighting systems (including fiber optic).

How do you address the issue of security with regard to your display cases?

Security is addressed in a number of ways including measures specified by the client or their consultants. Where practical, locking mechanisms are concealed to minimize visitor curiosity. Access to all ancillary spaces such as the light hood or desiccant storage compartment are separate from that of the display space, ideally under separate lock and key. Laminated safety glass or special alarm glass may be specified for extra protection of exhibits in unsupervised locations. Should an alarm system be required, we will coordinate with your consultant regarding the placement of contacts or devices within the display case and install them per their specification.

Why do you use glass rather than acrylic in constructing your display cases?

Our display cases are built for long life. In fact, clients have told us that they have come to expect a 50-year life span for our high quality museum cases. To assure quality in terms of craftsmanship and materials, we feel that glass is the only practical choice for long-term exhibits. Unlike various acrylic materials, glass is not electrostatic and does not attract dust to the same extent. Likewise, glass is far more resistant to scratching that may result from frequent dusting or cleaning. For purely practical reasons, acrylic sheeting does not offer the strength, rigidity or security we prefer for constructing unframed or especially large display cases.