Technology in Architecture

Materials and Fabrication

The V&A Dundee - Kengo Kuma

The V&A Dundee is a world-class museum located in the Scottish city of Dundee, and it is a must-visit destination for design enthusiasts. Opened in 2018, the museum showcases a wide range of design objects, from fashion and textiles to furniture and architecture, and features both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Designed by the acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the V&A Dundee is a stunning piece of architecture in its own right. Its distinctive shape, inspired by the cliffs of Scotland’s east coast, makes it a striking addition to the city’s waterfront. The building’s exterior is clad in 2,500 pre-cast concrete panels, each with a unique shape and texture, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.

Once inside, visitors are greeted by a spacious and airy atrium, which serves as the museum’s main entrance and gathering space. From there, they can explore the galleries, which are spread across two floors and feature a mix of permanent and changing exhibitions.

One of the highlights of the museum is its Scottish Design Galleries, which celebrate the impact of Scottish design on the world. The galleries feature over 300 objects, ranging from textiles and ceramics to furniture and fashion, and showcase the work of both established and emerging designers.

Another must-see exhibition is the Ocean Liners: Speed and Style exhibition, which explores the design and cultural impact of ocean liners from the mid-19th century to the present day. The exhibition features over 250 objects, including original furniture, fashion, and artwork from some of the world’s most famous ocean liners.

In addition to its exhibitions, the V&A Dundee also hosts a wide range of events and activities, including talks, workshops, and family-friendly activities. The museum’s restaurant, Tatha Bar and Kitchen, offers a range of delicious dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, and its shop stocks a wide range of design-led gifts and souvenirs.

Overall, the V&A Dundee is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in design, architecture, and culture. With its world-class exhibitions, stunning architecture, and engaging events and activities, it is a museum that is sure to inspire and delight visitors of all ages.

Kengo Kuma – the lead architect who designed the building’s distinctive shape and façade.

Pieterjan Ginckels – the project architect who oversaw the construction of the building.

James Fobert – the exhibition designer who worked on the Scottish Design Galleries.

Gareth Hoskins – the architect who worked on the interior design of the museum.

BAM Construction – the main contractor responsible for building the museum.

Dundee City Council – the local government authority that provided support and funding for the project.

The Victoria and Albert Museum – the London-based museum that partnered with the project to create the V&A Dundee.

The Scottish Government – the government body that provided funding for the project.

Dundee Waterfront – the urban regeneration project that the V&A Dundee is a part of.

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