Flexible modular displays are conceived as miniature ‘buildings within the building’
David Kohn Architects for the V&A
Contract value: undisclosed
GIA: 600m2
The new centre consolidates 800,000 pieces from the V&A and Royal Photographic Society collections, in refurbished grade I listed galleries. Flexible modular displays, conceived as miniature ‘buildings within the building’ , match wall cabinets and gallery seating for design coherence. Lighting and bespoke ventilation systems offer climate control of fragile, light-sensitive materials. The ‘Dark Tent’, inspired by 19th century darkrooms, is a new multimedia projection and lecture space. To open the contemporary displays 140 cameras introduce the story of photography, while further interactive displays and a digital wall invite speculation on the medium’s future.