Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, Denver

When I was planning my visit I saw this museum and it was top on my list. Kirkland did not disappoint. First, the building is beautiful, and the staff was incredibly friendly. The museum packs a lot of amazing design history inside and does a great job of it. Unsurprisingly, the layout is well thought out. The rooms along the promenade walk you through the history and evolution of design better than any history class or any other museum I have seen. The museum is set up more like a furniture store or the home of a collector than a white-walled modern art museum. Each room offers a holistic glimpse into that era of design. The items are presented in a way you rarely see at other museums, in a more natural and contextual space. The studio space feels like it is still someones home. It does not feel like much was changed to make it a museum. The smaller space and more natural layout makes for a unique experience. A fantastic museum filled with a great history.

Most museums will only give you fine art, or textiles, or pottery, etc. But the Kirkland does a wonderful job of combining several art forms all at once within engaging period presentations that immerse you in the exhibits far more effectively than traditional museums. It was a wonderful experience. I only wish it was larger and there was more of it to enjoy!!