The V&A Opens in Dundee as Scotland’s First Design Museum

The building, designed by the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is on Dundee’s waterfront, which was once a part of the coastal city’s docklands. It is here that the geometric structure hangs out over the River Tay, mimicking Scotland’s dramatic cliffs, by which Kuma was inspired.

“The big idea for V&A Dundee was bringing together nature and architecture, to create a new living room for the city. I’m truly in love with the Scottish landscape and nature. It’s as if the earth and water had a long conversation and finally created this stunning shape,” said Kuma.

Inside the light-filled, wooden interior of the V&A Dundee, visitors will find the Scottish Design Galleries, which features 300 exhibits highlighting the V&A’s collections of Scottish design, as well as works belonging to museum and private collections from around the world. Situated at the heart of the galleries is the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Oak Room, which has been conserved, restored, and reconstructed for the museum in partnership with the Glasgow Museums and Dundee City Council.

“This cultural milestone for the city of Dundee is also a landmark moment in V&A history–we’re extremely proud to share in this exceptional partnership, the first of its kind in the UK, and to have helped establish a new international center for design that celebrates Scotland’s cultural heritage,” said Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A.