Design Museum to move to the old Commonwealth Institute

OMA’s long-awaited plans for the former Commonwealth Institute have been given the go-ahead by Kensington and Chelsea council. Councillors approved the scheme, which is to include moving the Design Museum into the 1960s grade II listed building.

Recent changes to the design have included a reduction in the height of residential blocks proposed around the striking RMJM-designed building itself, open floors on all levels of the museum new landscape design incorporating a water feature.

Kensington and Chelsea council leader Merrick Cockell said, "“If all goes to plan, Kensington High Street will soon have the Design Museum at one end and an invigorated Kensington Palace at the other. The draw of these unique buildings at either end of one of London’s great high streets will attract visitors, locals and retailers to Kensington, helping to secure its long-term viability, combating the recession and beating off competition from soulless retail malls.”

bd The Architects website