New galleries & ongoing works: Phase 2 2010 onwards

摘要

Originally completed in 1869, the Lydia and Manfred Gorvy Lecture Theatre forms part of the V&A's Grade I-listed building status. The theatre space hosts the museum's busy programme of design-themed talks, lectures and performances. Its refurbishment included designs for a new decorative acoustic lining, control box and finishes. Minimal changes to the fabric of the building were possible due to its listed status and budget constraints, and so the choice of materials - which also had to improve the acoustic performance of the space - was limited. The existing decorative motif within the cupola ceiling was restored and extended in a contrasting varnish with a crisp finish onto new timber panels. The chosen timber now forms the lining of the curved wall of the theatre stage and extends to the perimeter of the surrounding space to provide a coherent and unifying finish. The varnished motifs catch the light from certain angles, creating a clear, modern feel that retains a memory of the past. In addition, lighting was upgraded and new walnut-veneered acoustic panelling installed, along with a new acoustic ceiling, audiovisual equipment and new seating pads.