Development of the garden, 2005

The John Madejski Garden

The John Madejski Garden at night.

The John Madejski Garden was opened officially on 5 July 2005 by HRH Prince Charles to provide a refreshing, light space at the centre of the Museum for visitors to relax.

Covering an area of 2,800m², the new V&A garden scheme was a simple and traditional courtyard. Echoing the steps at the Grand Entrance, steps and ramps curved to form an ellipse, paved with red sandstone. The surrounding York stone terrace was softened by lush lawns, glass planters and the dappled shade of liquidambar trees. As a new smooth and level circulation space, overlooking the central ellipse, café-style chairs were provided to allow the visitor to choose their own spot to sit.

Designer

The John Madejski Garden was designed by Kim Wilkie a landscape architect, urban designer and environmental planner. He set up his practice, Kim Wilkie Associates, in 1989 to promote projects that explore the relationship between land and culture, community and place.

This development was completed as part of FuturePlan

FuturePlan is transforming the V&A by revitalising visitor facilities and redisplaying the collections. Using the best architects and designers, we are bringing the V&A into the 21st century and restoring modern design and innovation to the heart of the museum.