The Lapworth Museum of Geology at the University of Birmingham is one of the recipients of the 2018 Centenary Renaissance Award from Birmingham Civic Society.
A wide range of projects were nominated in the awards that recognise the most successful building, structure or public space that was once derelict, vacant or under-used that has been brought back into life.
Speaking about the project Richard Perry, Director said:
“The University of Birmingham challenged us to provide a scheme of transformation that would rejuvenate the museum, substantially increasing its capacity. We also looked to improve the collection’s accessibility using new interpretive methods of display and providing dedicated facilities for school and community groups. Our aim was to do this whilst retaining the museum’s research focus.
We worked closely with the Museum team and the exhibition designers, Real Studios, to ensure that the spaces were tailored to the museum’s requirements and offered innovative and inclusive exhibiting solutions.
The project is a carefully considered balance of historic and contemporary elements that has delivered tangible benefits and more than doubling visitor numbers since its opening.”
Jon Clatworthy, Director of The Lapworth Museum of Geology said:
“The project has seen a total transformation of the museum, creating an engaging and inspiring attraction at the University of Birmingham. Working with Associated Architects and Real Studios we have maintained the historic character of the museum, combined with an innovative use of new space and one of the UK’s premier geological collections. We can now engage visitors with popular topics such as dinosaurs, fossils, evolution, volcanoes and crystals and related cutting edge research taking place at the university. Visitor numbers have dramatically increased, and we are receiving fantastic feedback from our existing and new audiences.”
