V&A Dundee has been a trending topic here in Scotland for the best part of 2018; with design lovers, students and locals excitedly awaiting its completion on Dundee’s waterfront. And, who could blame them? The stunning contemporary construction - designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma - has been three and a half years in the making.
Earlier this month, the doors of V&A Dundee finally opened, inviting Dundee locals and tourists alike to explore its light-filled space. I was able to get in a couple of days early for a sneaky preview peek and was absolutely BLOWN AWAY by Scotland’s first design museum and all it has to offer!
I was so impressed by V&A Dundee that I’ve been sitting wondering how to even begin describing it to you guys - there’s so much to see!
Instead of covering every nook and cranny (what’s the fun in seeing it for yourself if I do that?), I thought I would give you my top 3 reasons to visit V&A Dundee…
The Building for a Start!
Before you begin to take in the galleries, you will no doubt be in awe of Kengo Kuma’s dramatic design - made up of 2,429 pre-cast concrete panels which hang in striking inverted angles and curves above the water. The structure of V&A Dundee is inspired by Scotland’s cliffs and Kuma’s vision is for it to bring together nature and design; acting as a true ‘living room’ for the city.
Inside, keep your eyes peeled for little details such as glass panels that jut out directly over the water (you might even spot a seal if you’re lucky!) and limestone flooring studded with real fossils of sea creatures and plants from millions of years ago.
A Celebration of Scottish Design
In the Scottish Design Galleries you’ll find around 300 pieces from Scotland’s design heritage, with everything from fashion to furniture playing a starring role. There are items dating back as far as 1844, as well as more familiar modern design achievements like video games!
Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s iconic Oak Room also features in the galleries, which is like stepping into a piece of history, while the Michelin Design Gallery is an ever-changing space dedicated to current design projects.
Say AHOY to Speed and Style!
V&A Dundee’s exhibition gallery space is the largest of its kind in Scotland and it’s first showcase is Ocean Liners: Speed and Style. Confession time - I almost made up my mind about this one before giving it a chance and thought I wouldn’t like it. I know! Not cool, huh? I’m so glad that I visited this awesome exhibition because now I have a second confession…it was my FAVOURITE part of the museum!
Opulent interior design, vintage fashion pieces and dynamic engineering are just a few ways this display pays tribute to the grand tradition of cruise liners. I just loved exploring the rooms filled with more than 250 objects! A Christian Dior suit worn by Marlene Dietrich and a menu for pampered first class pups were among some of the pieces that made me smile the most.
Ocean Liners: Speed and Style will run until 24th February 2019 - toot toot!
These are just a few of my highlights from visiting V&A Dundee but you really have to come and experience it for yourself. Whether you love design, are a history buff, or just appreciate a fabulous day out, there’s a lot to enjoy.
