The histories of Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn and the city of Zaandam are inextricably linked. At the flagship branch of the supermarket near Zaans Medical Center, shoppers are immersed in the chain's rich entrepreneurial history.

Step into the world of Albert Heijn

Design agency Silo selected highlights from the company's 125-year history to create a surprising, humorous and delicious graphical storyline. The hand-drawn illustrations show the quality products for which the supermarket is renowned – wine, coffee, biscuits, and fresh vegetables – but also the facade of one of its first locations. The drawings also include interesting facts about Albert Heijn.

Better take the stairs

Using the stairs to go up to the parking deck, you walk through a small village of typical Zaanse houses, constructed from fruit and vegetables. With the spatial identity, Albert Heijn stimulates its clients to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Moreover, the illustrations aid orientation and promote the respectful use of the space.

Identity to unite a district

The supermarket is part of a healthcare-focused district, designed by architecture practice Mecanoo. Visitors, patients, staff, and neighbors can combine their stay at the adjacent Zaans Medical Center with daily grocery shopping. By extending the hospital's iconic spatial identity to the supermarket, the entire district feels like one coherent place.