Venue Review

Character: Finely detailed and original Victorian ‘architectural scrapbook’ with some modern additions.

Funky Features: Spectacular new garden focal point; magnificent entrance dome with hanging glass sculpture; ideal space for catwalk shows in Raphael galleries.

Location and History

The V&A stands on Cromwell Road at the heart of London’s museum district in South Kensington. It’s across the road from the Science and Natural History Museums and a few hundred metres west of Harrods and the smart shops of Brompton Road. Founded by Henry Cole in the 1850s, the museum was intended not just to house exhibits but to be an exhibit in itself, a built example of the best design.

In recent years, the Future Plan initiative designed to reshape the museum for the 21st century has gathered momentum and a series of spectacular galleries have been launched including the New British Galleries, the Jameel Gallery of Middle Eastern Art, the Dorothy and Michael Hintze Sculpture Gallery. Towards the end of 2006, a new museum café will open in the wonderfully elaborate Morris and Gamble rooms behind the John Madejski garden which were once the museum’s tearooms.

Interior

When it was built the V&A was defined by a new ‘collage’ style of architecture. Designed by Captain Francis Fowke, architect of the Royal Albert Hall, the building drew on older buildings – from 16th century Italian interiors to classical revival of 16th century France – as influences. But it also used modern production techniques and materials in new ways. Its influence was huge, especially in the revival of terracotta and mosaic in Victorian Britain.

Spaces for Hire

This world-renowned museum offers a plethora of stunning and unique spaces for hire.  World-class craftsmanship and beautiful objects will amaze guests unfamiliar with the building. Fabulous flooring, double-height ceilings and hanging galleries are awesome, and the constant company of Old Masters is inspirational.

The entrance dome acts as the museum’s Reception during the day, is a flexible space that lends a drinks reception or dinner elegance and grandeur while providing a contemporary edge for more informal events. With the stunning Chihuly glass sculpture glittering above, the Information desk becomes a bar and dancing can also be accommodated.

The Raphael Gallery is the perfect setting for a monumental evening: the splendour of the double-height ceilings, black and white mosaic floor and elegant columns are but a frame for the eight masterpieces housed here.  A formal dinner in this space is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

The Paintings and Silver Galleries are spectacular settings for any drinks reception. Sip drinks in the company of Millais, Constable, Turner, and Gainsborough or dazzle guests with the fine silverware in a room that boasts Doric columns and exquisitely painted ceilings. 

Whilst the Cast Courts and Gilbert Bayes Sculpture Gallery act as separate venues, together they form an epic setting.  Enjoy pre-dinner drinks under the soaring ceilings that house casts of sculptures, friezes and tombs dominated by a large-scale replica of Michelangelo’s David.  Ascend to the Gilbert Bayes Sculpture Gallery overlooking the Cast Courts to enjoy an elegant and intimate dinner.

Finally, the recently relandscaped John Madejski Garden is one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the capital featuring broad walkways, a paved elliptical terrace, and lush grassy spaces. This space has been given a contemporary twist with glass potted lemon trees (bay trees in the winter) and an ornamental paddling pool, which has become a magnet for design and art hungry parents.  The Italianate 15th century style of the rear terracotta façade is now visible in all its splendour and provides a dramatic and beautiful backdrop for any event.