This year, the global cultural landscape will be enriched by the opening of several ground-breaking museums and galleries. These institutions not only showcase artistic and cultural treasures, but also emphasise sustainable design that pushes the boundaries of architectural innovation. Here’s a round-up:
1. V&A East Storehouse – London, UK
Opening on 31 May, the V&A East Storehouse in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is designed by architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro. This new facility will house over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books and 1,000 archives from the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collections. Visitors will have unprecedented access, gaining insights into conservation and research processes within a working museum environment. The design highlights transparency and accessibility, reflecting a modern approach to museum architecture. vam.ac.uk/east
2. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi, UAE
Set to open in 2025, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum aims to showcase modern and contemporary art from around the world, with a particular focus on Middle Eastern artists. Gehry’s design features a series of asymmetric cones and galleries, creating dynamic spaces that challenge traditional museum layouts. The building incorporates sustainable elements, including natural ventilation and optimized daylight, to reduce its environmental footprint. guggenheim.org
3. The Nederlands Fotomuseum, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
The Nederlands Fotomuseum, is set to relocate to a new site in Rotterdam’s historic dock area by mid-2025. The museum will occupy the iconic eight-story Santos building, a designated national monument originally constructed in 1903 as a warehouse for Brazilian coffee. The new museum will offer expansive gallery spaces to showcase both its permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. A darkroom for professional photographers and hobbyists will support traditional photographic techniques, while a rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the Rotterdam skyline. nederlandsfotomuseum.nl
4. Museum of Modern Art Warsaw (MSN Warsaw) – Warsaw, Poland
The permanent collection at MSN will open in February 2025, after a soft launch in October 2024. Designed by architect Thomas Phifer, the museum serves as a central hub for contemporary art in Poland, featuring works by both Polish and international artists. The gallery includes flexible exhibition spaces, educational facilities and public areas, fostering community engagement. Sustainability is a key focus, with energy-efficient systems and materials integrated throughout the building. artmuseum.pl
5. Fondation Cartier Pour l’Art Contemporain – Paris, France
In late 2025, the Fondation Cartier will relocate to a new site on rue de Rivoli, opposite the Louvre. Architect Jean Nouvel transformed the former Louvre des Antiquaires into a contemporary museum space, featuring vast exhibition areas illuminated by natural light through an impressive glass ceiling. The design harmoniously blends historical architecture with modern elements, creating a sustainable and inspiring environment for contemporary art exhibitions. fondationcartier.com
6. National Science and Media Museum, Bradford, UK
Bradford’s National Science and Media Museum reopened on 8 January, following an 18-month closure for an extensive refurbishment. The £6 million Sound and Vision project has led to the creation of two new permanent galleries, the addition of a new passenger lift, and enhancements to the main entrance and foyer. To celebrate its reopening, the museum worked with Aardman featuring film screenings and stop-motion animation workshops. In line with Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture, the museum opened David Hockney: Pieced Together, which continues until 18 May 2025. scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk
These upcoming institutions exemplify a commitment to sustainability and innovative design, reflecting a global trend towards environmentally conscious and community-focused cultural spaces.
Words: Shirley Stevenson
Image Credits:
1. National Museum of Photography © Photo Studio Hans Wilschut.
2. View of the Collections Hall at V&A East Storehouse © Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
3. Courtesy Saadiyat Cultural District.
4. National Museum of Photography © Photo Studio Hans Wilschut.
5. National Museum of Photography © Photo Studio Hans Wilschut.
6. Courtesy Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw.
7. View of the building, Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Paris, 2013. © Jean Nouvel, Emmanuel Cattani & Associés. Picture: © Luc Boegly.
8. Image courtesy of the Science Museum Group.
