V&A Museum of Design Dundee at-a-glance

Despite delays and budgeting concerns, Scotland’s first-ever Museum of Design is set to bring world-class art to Tayside
By SOFIANE KENNOUCHE
Published 24th Sep 2015, 13:29 BST

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A rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' timeA rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' time
A rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' time

What’s with the unusual design?

The V&A’s striking formwas penned by award-winning Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and beat over 120 entries to become the public’s chosen design back in November 2010. Designed to be a “living room for the city,” members of the public have been invited by V&A staff to submit their favourite objects, style ideas and designs from places where they feel “surrounded by the things you love”to the #LivingRoom project.

When can I visit it?

Contract holders BAM Construction began work on the site in March 2015 after months of delays. With the original opening date of 2014 long since abandoned, BAM are aiming for the building to be finished by the close of 2017. The museum is then expected to open to the public by June 2018 once all the exhibits have been put in place.

How much does it cost?

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The project’s budget has nearly doubled to £80m from initial 2010 estimates of approximately £45m. The Scottish Government has allocated £25m as a capital contribution to the project, with the People’s Postcode Lottery stumping up $150,000 for the V&A’s community outreach activities.

Why was Dundee chosen?

A rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' timeA rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' time
A rendering of architect Kengo Kuma's vision of the V&A Museum of Design set to open in three years' time

The design museum is Dundee’s flagship attraction as part of the city’s £1bn waterfront regeneration programmeand is designed to attract both tourists and investors to the city. Once known as a city of declining industry and unemployment, Dundee plans to make the most of its digital industry as well as its oil and gas industry decommissioning facilities. The addition of the only purpose-built museum of design in Britain outside of London is part of Dundee’s continued redevelopment.

How can I get involved?

The V&A have set up a contact page on their websitefor investors and supporters alike, with regular updates also posted on their Twitter feed.

Related topics:DundeeScotlandScottish Government