The Design Museum in London has confirmed that Zaha Hadid has purchased their original building, which they've called home since 1989, just over a year after placing a bid with a private backer. According to the Architects' Journal, Hadid will use the building to house her practice's archive as well as serve as an occasional exhibition space. "The building will give an opportunity to consolidate our archive in a single location,” she said, “and also engage in a collective dialogue by exhibiting the research and innovation of global collaborations in art, architecture and design.”
Proceeds from the sale will be used to help fund a new, £80 million museum at the former, RMJM-designed Commonwealth Institute in Kensington. Here, Pawson will redesign the interior while OMA draws up the plans for the surrounding residential development.
Under the terms of the sale agreement the Design Museum will continue to operate at Shad Thames in Southwark until 2015. Once complete, the new location will offer three times the amount of exhibition space and attract 500,000 visitors per year.
In a press release provided by the Design Museum, Zaha Hadid stated: “This important acquisition of the Shad Thames site will preserve its significance and we look forward to the future use and occupation of the building.”
News via BDOnline, Design Museum
