✦ The Museum Every Global Designer Must Visit: the Design Museum

📜 History This museum’s “rags-to-riches” story is nothing short of inspirational! From a basement to the design world’s “big shot.” In 1981, it was a small, unnoticed exhibition in the basement of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), focusing on modern design. But every underdog has a dream of rising to the top, right? In 1989, it moved to the riverside of the Thames, and later “upgraded” to the former Commonwealth Institute building on Kensington High Street, becoming the design world’s “top-tier” institution. 🏛️ Architecture The building was jointly designed by OMA + Allies and Morrison. The interior architecture was handled by the legendary John Pawson. Originally a modernist building from the 1960s, the renovation is renowned for its minimalist style, combining the geometric structure of the original building with contemporary design language, such as the folded roof and the use of wood. This “new-old fusion” approach is common in the renovation projects of contemporary British architectural firms. The interior design seamlessly integrates the historical feel of the old building with modern steel structures, perfectly blending the old with the new. Honestly, I came here for the architecture. 🪑 Museum Mission Bringing design to the everyday home The museum’s slogan could be: “Design is not a luxury, but oxygen!” The permanent exhibition, themed around designer-maker-user, features nearly a thousand exhibits, from vintage typewriters to futuristic chairs, from graphic posters to haute couture, showing you in every way: “Design makes life cooler!” ☕️ Café The café on the second floor has a retro, green-themed vibe. It’s a great spot to relax if you’re in the area. 🎫 Tickets The permanent exhibition is free! Occasionally, there are limited-time free special exhibitions. For example, in 2021, the “Conran Effect” exhibition was free and showcased the legendary life of design magnate Terence Conran. April special exhibition: Tim Burton’s “Strangeland Party.” Check the official website if you’re interested. Monday to Thursday: 10:00-17:00 Friday to Sunday: 10:00-18:00 Next door is Holland Park, where you can have a picnic after your visit. #TodayIAmAnExhibitionist #ArtInTheAir #LondonLife #InspirationFromLife #LondonWorker #Designer #MuseumDesign #LondonMuseum #FreeExhibitions #LondonWeekend #JohnPawson #LondonArchitecture #UKTravel