The Foundling Museum

London​

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Architect: Jestico + Whiles

Client: The Foundling Museum

Project completion: 2004

 

David Bonnett Associates has been appointed as Access Consultants for many major museum project in the UK, several of them in listed buildings. In common with many older buildings, the Foundlings Museum required a complete overhaul of entry and circulation arrangements as well as provision for cloaks, wet areas and teaching spaces for relatively large groups of children. That no child should be excluded on the grounds of disability was a clear statement of intent in the design brief and was, in some senses, a condition of funding.  

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DBA’s response was to undertake an access audit of the existing building to ensure complete familiarity with internal arrangements and the scope for change. Several key requirements were identified including a ramped entrance that would enhance, rather than detract from, the historic frontage; an internal lift that would complement the internal hall; and classroom spaces that were accessible with step-free emergency escape. 

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With these and other objectives jointly agreed, DBA worked directly with the design team and museum staff to devise effective solutions. The final outcome has proved to be a great success and the museum has, in consequence, received several awards. 

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Awards:

Camden Design Awards - Commendation 2004

Design Week Award Finalist 2005

Gulbenkian Prize for Museum of the Year Finalist 2005

Design Week Award Finalist 2005

RICS Award Finalist 2006

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