The Victoria and Albert Museum's new 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 visitors with direct interaction with over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives spanning 5,000 years of human creativity.
Unlike conventional museums where touching exhibits is typically prohibited, the V&A East Storehouse encourages hands-on engagement. Many items are available for visitors to touch, and the "Order an Object" service allows individuals to request specific artifacts for closer examination. This innovative approach aims to foster a deeper connection between the public and the museum's extensive holdings.
Situated on a 6-acre campus in the reimagined Olympic Park, the Storehouse is part of a broader cultural district developed after the 2012 Games. 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 transparency and community engagement, the museum features displays on conservation work and allows visitors to observe staff activities. This openness aligns with its mission to make the entire national collection accessible to everyone, inviting a more inclusive and interactive museum experience.
The V&A East Storehouse represents a significant shift in museum practices, moving away from traditional, passive viewing to an active, participatory model. By inviting the public to touch and interact with artifacts, the museum hopes to inspire a new generation of visitors and deepen the public's appreciation for art and history.
