William Morris Gallery
London
The William Morris Gallery is located in the Grade II* listed Water House, the former family home of William Morris and is set in its own grounds on the edge of Lloyd and Aveling Park, Walthamstow.
The scope of the project which GuM Studio provided was the 3D design, 2D graphic design, and interpretation strategy for the design of the permanent exhibition of the museum’s collection of over 9000 items. GuM worked closely with the curators on the thematic development, matching the visitor journey with the architecture of the building.
The historic layout of the house influenced the arrangement of the galleries and their themes. At the heart of the visitor offer was the representation of William Morris as a contemporary icon, versatile designer, workaholic, entrepreneur and devoted family man.
Due to the nature of the listed building, every room was carefully analysed, noting the architectural features, and these details informed the layout of each room.
We wanted to celebrate the historic details; our interpretive design needed to suit the architectural detailing. Our 3D design and graphics needed to work with the historic panelling, taking care not to obscure important details.
Working with Benedetta Tiana, we prepared an AV brief and managed the tender process for the AV supplier, including attending contractor interviews. GuM designed and specified the showcases, which were competitively tendered, and were involved in the selection process at supplier interview stage. GuM worked with the showcase supplier and oversaw the drawing approval process and installation on site.
“This truly is museum of the year. Its extraordinary collections, beautifully presented, draw the visitor engagingly through Morris’s life and work and through the building itself. Setting the highest standards of curatorship, and reaching out impressively to its local community.”
Awards
Art Fund Museum of the Year 2013
Museums & Heritage Best Permanent Exhibition Award 2013
Civic Trust Regional Finalist 2013
Architect of the Year Award- Public Building Finalist 2013
London Planning Award 2014
European Museum of the Year Award 2014
Consultants
Architects: Pringle Richards Sharratt Architects
Lighting Design: DHA Designs
Interpretation: BT Museum Consultancy
Graphic Designers: Thomas Manss & Company
Fit-out Contractor: The Moule Partnership