National History Museum Colchester
Colchester
In 2021, PRS Architects and GuM Studio collaborated to produce the Feasibility Report for Colchester + Ipswich Museum Services, focusing on the revitalization of the NHM Museum in Colchester.
This initiative presents a significant opportunity for Colchester to elevate the overall visitor experience, transforming the Natural History Museum into an enhanced destination within the Town Centre.
The project involves the development of a new exhibition within a Grade II* Listed church, housing a vast natural history collection with hundreds of thousands of specimens. The aim is to elevate on-site facilities by introducing a new cafe, toilets, shop, and dedicated learning spaces. This endeavour will not only bring numerous artefacts out of storage but also reinterpret the collection to resonate with both existing and target audiences. The emphasis is on fostering increased interactivity and understanding of the natural world, particularly focusing on Essex wildlife.
GuM Studio collaborated extensively with stakeholders, staff, visitors, family groups, and wildlife experts to explore the potential for reinterpreting this unique collection. The goal is to highlight species adaptation and human impacts on nature. This initiative offers an excellent opportunity to introduce a significantly improved exhibition, providing a modern and immersive understanding of local, regional, and national wildlife topics.
In the process, collaborative research with the client has deepened the understanding of the collection's significance. Themes and exhibition techniques were tested through stakeholder and public consultation, with feedback influencing GuM's proposed strategic concept design and visitor journey. Recommendations for additional display and interactive spaces within the historic setting have been incorporated.
GuM Studio has also worked closely with the Quantity Surveyor (QS) to provide costed options that align with the allocated budget. The proposal has been framed to support a National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Round 1 bid.