Learning LONDON FESTIVAL OF ARCHITECTURE AUDIO-DESCRIBED SENSORY TOUR

AD Sensory Tour: The Architecture of the Design Museum

Celebrate London Festival of Architecture 2024 and discover the fascinating story of the museum building, in this group tour for blind and visually impaired visitors and their companions, led by guide Poppy Levison.

What to expect

The architectural firm RMJM was commissioned to design a building to house the Commonwealth Institute, which opened on this site in 1962. The activities of the Commonwealth Institute ceased in 2003 and the unique landmark Grade II* listed building stood vacant for over a decade, before being transformed by John Pawson’s design team, who made the building fit for a 21st century museum.

From the magnificent hyperbolic parabola rooftop to unique spatial qualities and lesser-known features and attributes, the tour fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of this very special structure.

This tour forms part of the London Festival of Architecture, a month long celebration of architecture and city-making, taking place every June across London.

Facilitator

Poppy Levison

Levison’s lived experience as a blind woman gives her a particular expertise in the politics of inclusive design, architecture’s tendency to fixate on the visual, and the accessibility of architecture education. She is a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at DSDHA, design researcher and disability activist. She regularly speaks on subjects around disability and the built environment.

Book Online

Booking information

• Pre-booking required

• Please ensure you only book if you plan to attend and please cancel your booking in advance if your availability changes

• Suitable Age 12+

• Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible, ticket holding adult

Pay-What-You-Can supports visitors who might find the standard ticket price a barrier.

Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Visit our Terms & Conditions page for further information.

In Partnership with LFA

The London Festival of Architecture, 1 – 30 June, is a month long celebration of architecture and city-making, taking place across London. The Festival’s mission is to open up discussions around architecture, test new ideas and uncover and promote new talent.

Related event

Manifestos: Architecture for a New Generation 2024

Join our annual collaboration with the London Festival of Architecture showcasing progressive manifestos envisioning a more inclusive London, developed by emerging voices in architecture and the built environment.