Re-opening of the Exhibition Road tunnel, 2004

View of the Exhibition Road tunnel.

In 2004, the tunnel entrance which had previously been closed off was re-opened to provide the Museum with a third entrance, giving visitors access from the public subway that runs from South Kensington underground station to the three museums in the area. The V&A is the only museum to have direct access to South Kensington underground station.

The refurbishment by Eva Jiricna Architects was contemporary yet respectful to the historic fabric of the building. Its main features included a new glass and steel staircase, a stunning blue glass resin floor, the restoration of the original wall tiles, steel and ironwork, and three new sets of doors.

The blue glow from the new lighting spine created a dramatic atmosphere to entice the public into the Museum. There was also provision for future installation of a wheelchair lift when South Kensington station becomes fully accessible.

Designer

The designer was Eva Jiricna Architects Limited (EJAL).