London’s cultural landscape has expanded with the grand opening of the V&A East Storehouse in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This state-of-the-art facility redefines how the public experiences and engages with museum collections. With over 250,000 objects on view and a groundbreaking “Order an Object” service, the space invites visitors to interact directly with hidden gems once kept behind closed doors.
Explore The V&A East Storehouse Experience
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The V&A East Storehouse spans four expansive floors and covers around 16,000 square metres. According to the Victoria and Albert Museum, it now houses 1,000 archives, 350,000 library books, and a diverse collection of objects ranging from Roman wall paintings to Elton John’s extravagant costumes. The building, designed by acclaimed architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro, combines sleek modern design with functionality to encourage public engagement.
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As reported by The Guardian, the Storehouse presents its vast inventory not as a static display but as a dynamic environment. Objects sit in open racks, drawers, and cases—allowing for free movement and discovery. Unlike traditional galleries, the Storehouse blends exhibition space with conservation studios, storage areas, and reading rooms.
A Museum First: ‘Order An Object’
One of the Storehouse’s most talked-about features is the interactive ‘Order an Object’ programme. This new initiative allows visitors to browse a digital catalogue and choose up to five items for private viewing in a dedicated space. The process mirrors a library request—only instead of books, guests can request historical textiles, sculptures, fashion items, and even Picasso-designed stage clothes.
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This unique concept breaks down the barriers between the public and museum collections. It transforms passive viewing into active discovery and adds a personalised layer to cultural exploration.
More Than A Museum: A Space For Creativity
The V&A East Storehouse is not just a place to view objects. It is a creative hub, with studios, community programmes, and study spaces that invite deeper learning. As reported by Stratford Cross, the centre plans to house the David Bowie Centre for the Study of Performing Arts, offering access to over 80,000 items related to the iconic musician. Educational workshops, conservation tours, and local outreach are all integral parts of its long-term vision.
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The V&A East Storehouse makes museum collections more accessible, inclusive, and engaging. It invites Londoners and visitors alike to explore the past in an entirely new way—on their own terms.
Cover Image Courtesy: V&A East Storehouse/website