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 over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives from its extensive collection. Unlike conventional museums, visitors are encouraged to touch many items and can even book one-on-one "Order an Object" sessions to engage directly with specific artifacts, such as a 1954 Balenciaga gown or a Vivienne Westwood sweater.
Situated in the city's reimagined Olympic Park, the Storehouse is part of a larger cultural district developed after the 2012 Games, aiming 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. The site also will host the upcoming David Bowie Center.
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 challenges the traditional notion of museums as places where visitors are passive observers, encouraging a more interactive and engaging experience.
The V&A East Storehouse is part of a broader trend in the United States, where approximately 90 new cultural projects were announced last year, including major expansions and renovations across the country. This surge in museum development reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cultural institutions in community engagement and education.
As museums continue to evolve, the V&A East Storehouse stands out as a pioneering example of how institutions can adapt to meet the changing needs and expectations of the public, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the cultural artefacts they cherish.
