The Victoria and Albert Museum's new V&A East Storehouse in London is redefining the traditional museum visit by offering unprecedented public access to its vast collection. Located in the city's revitalised Olympic Park, the Storehouse provides direct engagement with over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives spanning 5,000 years of human creativity.
Unlike conventional museums, the V&A East Storehouse encourages visitors to touch many items and even book one-on-one "Order an Object" sessions. These sessions allow individuals to interact closely with specific artifacts, such as a 1954 Balenciaga gown or a Vivienne Westwood sweater. This hands-on approach aims to foster a deeper connection between the public and the museum's extensive collection.
Situated in the reimagined Olympic Park, the Storehouse is part of a larger cultural district developed after the 2012 Games. This initiative seeks to engage local communities and promote transparency in museum practices. Designed by the firm behind New York's High Line, the building showcases oversized pieces like Picasso stage curtains and Mughal architecture, creating an immersive environment for visitors.
The V&A East Storehouse also plans to host the upcoming David Bowie Center, further enriching its cultural offerings. Emphasising openness, the museum features displays on conservation work and allows viewing of staff activity, aligning with its mission to make the entire national collection accessible to everyone.
This innovative approach marks a significant shift in how museums engage with the public, moving beyond traditional exhibition methods to create a more interactive and inclusive experience. The V&A East Storehouse sets a new standard for museums worldwide, demonstrating the potential of reimagined spaces to connect communities with art and history in meaningful ways.
