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Protecting art and culture

Vienna’s Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) in Vienna bridges the gap between past and future, design and contemporary art. To protect rotating exhibitions and the high number of visitors, the MAK relies on state-of-the-art video surveillance technology from Dallmeier.

The museum’s historic building, with its high ceilings, changing exhibitions, and demanding lighting conditions, presents unique challenges for security infrastructure. The varying spatial configurations and atmospheric lighting – designed to enhance the presentation of the art – make it particularly difficult for conventional surveillance cameras. Effective monitoring calls for precisely tailored installation solutions to ensure uninterrupted visual coverage.

“The technology used must not only deliver high quality, but must also be flexible and efficient enough to adapt to frequently changing conditions. By installing more than 100 high-resolution single-sensor cameras, Dallmeier created a customised solution capable of meeting all our challenges,” says Gerald Schön, owner of Gerald Schön Elektro- & Sicherheitstechnik.

Discreet and unobtrusive

In addition to protecting exhibits and preventing theft, burglary, and vandalism, MAK´s focus is on visitor safety. At the same time, security technology should help to maintain a pleasant atmosphere. The surveillance cameras are therefore installed very discreetly throughout the museum complex, including the exhibition rooms, corridors, the MAK Design Shop, access roads, and entrances.

[Image credit: © MAK/Georg Mayer]

Remote camera configuration and smart AI functions

The installed 4K Domera cameras deliver high-resolution images even in difficult lighting conditions. Thanks to the RPoD (Remote Positioning Dome) function, camera angles can be adjusted remotely via the video management system, eliminating the need for labour-intensive physical reconfiguration. This is especially advantageous for the museum’s high ceilings and frequently changing exhibitions. AI-based features such as intrusion detection and loitering detection ensure precise alarms and significantly reduce false alerts. These technologies not only detect manipulation attempts during operating hours, but also play a vital role in protecting sensitive areas after hours.

Fisheye cameras provide full situational awareness, even in the museum’s largest exhibit halls. The integration of Dallmeier’s SeMSy Compact video management system enables centralised recording management, intuitive operator control, and powerful tools such as the AI-driven SmartFinder function. This allows staff to analyse incidents quickly and with minimal effort.

The MAK’s decision to use Dallmeier products was not based solely on image quality and features. Data protection and cybersecurity were equally decisive, which are areas where Dallmeier delivers strong value. Dallmeier products feature the highest level of technical security, enabling customers to implement and operate their video security solutions in a GDPR-compliant and cyber-secure manner. They also meet all the criteria crucial for successfully presenting evidence in court.

Museum of Applied Arts [Image credit: © Hertha Hurnaus/MAK, 2023]

Implementation without interrupting museum operations

Executing the project without disrupting daily operations was a logistical feat. From the initial planning phase to final installation, every detail was carefully coordinated.

Working closely together, Schön and the MAK’s internal security department analysed the museum’s needs and developed a tailored solution.

“Thanks to thorough planning and close coordination, we were able to complete the project with 100% planning reliability and zero complications,” explains Schön.

With the modernisation of its security infrastructure, the MAK has taken a significant step toward the future. The video system integrates seamlessly with the museum’s historic and architectural features, ensuring reliable protection of valuable exhibits and a smooth, undisturbed experience for all visitors.

“The ability to remotely adjust the camera angles has proven to be an invaluable benefit, especially with our high ceilings and the frequent exhibition changes,” emphasises Peter Tampier, MSc, head of security at the MAK.

The transition from blurry images to Ultra HD was executed smoothly thanks to the teamwork and deep expertise of all involved partners.

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