V&A DUNDEE

CONTEMPORARY DESIGN CLOSE TO HOME



This is another quick follow up from my previous blog on effective modern examples of architecture. I’ve been trying to think of some closer to home. The perfect example keeps popped into my mind recently. During my D&T research into Yinka Ilori, I stumbled upon an exhibition for the V&A in Dundee. Naturally this has made me think about the design behind the building itself, something which I found really appealing when I visited.
 

V&A Dundee, Kengo Kuma, 2018
It is designed to give the impression of a coastal cliff, helping it relate to its location and surrounding. I think this is a really important aspect when designing new buildings and has hopefully come across through some of my earlier blogs. Buildings of the past inherently had a style almost organically, crafted from the smaller communities that built them and the materials available nearby. As we see materials advance so far, to the point that anything is possible anywhere in the world, I feel it is important to keep a sense of heritage in some small way. As we see architects from all corners of the globe design buildings in other completely different corners of the globe, it again is good to see a sense of history make its way into this new work.



 
Kuma is seemingly known for his work having links to nature, and the coastal town of Dundee provides the perfect backdrop for this design. It links it to the cliffy coastline of this country in a subtle yet effective way. The upside-down pyramid shape, almost giving the effect that it has been eroded on the underside. Having travelled around the coast of Scotland I have a great appreciation for these cliffs and our stunning landscapes, and it feels good for someone to notice this and embrace it. 

I also feel the overhangs give the sense of a large ship, linking back to the rich shipbuilding history in Scotland. It is unclear if this is intentional as part of the design, but I have seen it referenced a few times. I think this is also a credit to the design. The simplicity makes it almost open to interpretation.




"I'm truly in love with the Scottish landscape and nature, I was inspired by the cliffs of northeastern Scotland – it's as if the earth and water had a long conversation and finally created this stunning shape." - Kengo Kuma

When you look at photos of the Scottish coastline you really can see directly how this influenced this design, from the shape down to the material with the chosen concrete cladding panels. The layered effect mirroring the lines commonly seen on eroded rocks partnered with the harsh angles and seemingly random shapes.




This is extremely effective when you get even closer, with the large panels almost towering over you. It feels massive, bold, and important. The building is made from two of these sections that connect in the centre, creating an underpass. This is supposed to act as a visual link between the city and the sea, which I think is a really nice concept.




This shape also works really well for the interior, doing what modern buildings do best, harness natural light. It creates a grand sense of scale that grows larger as you walk further into it and travel up the stairs. Again, this is really effective and a standout moment from my visit was walking up these stairs.

"I hope the museum can change the city and become its centre of gravity," - Kengo Kuma

I think this quote is a good summary of this building. I feel like it does exactly that. It has such a strong presence when you come towards it, when you are near it and when you are inside. So, in my eyes, that means it is a great design. It feels new and exciting in Dundee while still having ties to the history of the city.

Also, a random addition on the end here that you can feel free to ignore. This interior room is featured in a great scene from one of my favourite TV shows, Succession. I suppose it is only really funny or interesting when you’ve seen the show or know the characters, but I think it is always cool to see places closer to home in media from around the world. Here is a link if you are interested... Language is terrible for the record so not sure if this is an appropriate addition...  WATCH HERE