British Library
Magnificent Maps interactive exhibits and website
London, UK
About the project
Magnificent Maps provided a showcase for a rare display from the British Library’s map collection. Challenged by the Library to allow visitors to explore some maps in more detail and find out more about them, we conceived a set of multi-user interactives with no apparent interface. Users picked up a device, shaped like a magnifying glass, that ‘magically’ enlarged the projected display underneath it. Moving the glass over projected hotspots provided access to further information.
For online support, we produced a microsite that reinterpreted the same content. Both exhibition and microsite received impressive reviews and record numbers of visitors. Cogapp devised and delivered the software and hardware, including the magnifying-glass devices.
"The Magnificent Maps exhibition, including the beautifully created and unique interactive magnifying glasses from Cogapp, surpassed all expectations within the first few weeks. Cogapp hit the nail on the head with their interpretation of the brief – they have truly enhanced our visitors' experience of the exhibition content by adding a fascinating new level of experience for everyone that comes along.
The interactive displays were top of the scale in terms of interpretation, creativity, quality and delivery. We’re delighted to add something to the experience of the exhibition visitor without adding any complication or showing the technology involved – it’s not necessary! Cogapp’s displays need no learning curve and use intuition to really engage every visitor, whatever age or background.
We have had a fantastic and positive response from visitors about the interactive displays, with people often asking me how they work because the technology is so wonderfully hidden – I tell them it’s simply Magic!"
Ryan Doherty, Multimedia Production Manager, The British Library
“The Magnificent Maps exhibition, including the beautifully created and unique interactive magnifying glasses from Cogapp, surpassed all expectations within the first few weeks. Cogapp hit the nail on the head with their interpretation of the brief – they have truly enhanced our visitors' experience of the exhibition content by adding a fascinating new level of experience for everyone that comes along.”
Key services
- Graphic Design
- Interactive Installations
- Special Technologies
- Usability Testing
- User Experience
- Web Development