Born in the Netherlands, Willem Sandberg established himself as a significant figure in 20th-century design and museum administration. During World War II, he was active in the Dutch resistance, a period that preceded his long and influential tenure at the Stedelijk Museum.

Sandberg is widely recognized for his distinct typographic style, which often utilized bold, sans-serif lettering and a minimalist aesthetic. His work as a curator transformed the Stedelijk into a hub for modern art, emphasizing a dynamic relationship between graphic design and the presentation of contemporary works.

His legacy continues to influence the institutional identity of the Stedelijk Museum, which remains a primary site for the study of Dutch graphic design history. Recent programming at the museum continues to highlight the lineage of designers who, like Sandberg, have shaped the visual language of the institution.