Come visit the Ploeg Complex in Bergeijk!
Roughly fifty years ago the architect and furniture designer Gerrit Rietveld the factory of Weverij De Ploeg. In those days Ploeg's director Piet Blijenburg believed that employees should be able to work in a pleasant and natural environment. And so he hired landscape architect Mien Ruys to design a park. The result was a striking industrial complex in green surroundings. For decades the famous fabrics of De Ploeg were designed here, and the international furniture company Spectrum had its origins at this site.
In 2007 De Ploeg left Bergeijk. Until this location has been redeveloped for future use, guided tours, exhibitions and activities will be held in the vacant factory building.

Architectural gem
The factory and park form a unique ensemble and have now been declared a national monument. Being moreover the only industrial building designed by Rietveld, the factory should be put on the 'must see' list of anyone interested in architecture. Its specific characteristics include curved sawtooth roofing, extended glass facades and a unique incidence of light: an architectural gem in terms of its light, airiness and sense of space. Guided tours are available on request.

Exhibitions
In one of the factory spaces, various permanent displays on design have been set up. Admission to these is free. Added to this is a broad survey of the work carried out by Rietveld and Ruys in Bergeijk, the history of De Ploeg and the ideals of the foundation Goed Wonen, represented in furniture by 't Spectrum. Short films, photographs and information panels take us back to a time when Bergeijk was manufacturing progressive design.

Rietveld & Ruys village
Around the Ploeg complex and in the village, visitors will find 'viewing frames' in the style of Rietveld. These indicate sites where Rietveld and Ruys once left their mark on Bergeijk. Among the works are two homes, a bus shelter and a town clock by Gerrit Rietveld as well as landscaping and public gardens by Mien Ruys. All in all, Bergeijk has a unique concentration of objects by Rietveld and Ruys within its few square kilometers. In a single visit Bergeijk lets us experience the historic achievements of a modern culture.

Recreation in natural surroundings
Mien Ruys's Ploegpark has been landscaped with lawns, borders and special types of trees—a perfect place for a walk. Or sign up for a guided tour of the park. Now and then the park will be used as the setting for special events, such as the 'Ploeg Festival', which includes a varied program of music and activities for children. And for those who wish to explore the area, there is the Rietveld & Ruys cycling route. This begins in Bergeijk and continues to sites in Waalre, Eindhoven and Knegsel.

Office
The office volunteers at De Ploeg look forward to welcoming you. They can provide information on exhibitions, activities, cycling routes and guided tours. They also offer coffee, tea and cold drinks.

Address for visitors to De Ploeg:
Riethovensedijk 20, Bergeijk
E bureau@rietveldenruys.nl
T 0497 33 69 02
www.rietveldenruys.nl

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