Design Museum — Where Creativity Shapes the Future

A Home for Design in All Its Forms

Located in Kensington, the Design Museum is one of London’s most dynamic cultural spaces — dedicated entirely to the past, present, and future of design.
From everyday objects to cutting-edge inventions, it explores how design influences the way we live, work, and connect with the world.

Founded by Sir Terence Conran in 1989, the museum continues to inspire new generations of designers, thinkers, and problem-solvers.

From the Ordinary to the Extraordinary

The Design Museum believes that great design is everywhere — in furniture, fashion, architecture, and even digital experiences.
Its award-winning exhibitions reveal how creativity shapes innovation and how design drives positive change.

In 2016, the museum moved to its stunning new home in the former Commonwealth Institute — a landmark of modern architecture redesigned by John Pawson.
Today, it’s a bright, open space where ideas come to life.

Exploring the Design Museum
1. The Permanent Collection

The museum’s free-to-enter Designer Maker User exhibition explores design’s role in everyday life.
From the first Apple computer to iconic furniture by Charles and Ray Eames, it celebrates human ingenuity in form and function.
In addition, interactive displays invite visitors to think like designers — observing, testing, and creating.

2. Temporary Exhibitions

The Design Museum hosts major exhibitions on topics ranging from sustainable fashion to AI and robotics.
Past shows have featured designers like Dieter Rams, Stanley Kubrick, and Paul Smith, each revealing how creativity connects with culture.
Therefore, every visit offers something new and thought-provoking.

3. Learning and Innovation

Workshops, talks, and digital programs encourage visitors of all ages to explore the design process.
The Design Ventura initiative, for instance, helps students turn creative ideas into real-world products — blending imagination with entrepreneurship.

Learn more at the Design Museum official website

A Building Designed to Inspire

The museum itself is a masterpiece of minimalist architecture.
Its sweeping glass roof, clean lines, and natural light reflect the principles of modern design — simple, functional, and elegant.
Furthermore, its location near Kensington Gardens places it among London’s cultural landmarks, alongside the V&A and Science Museum.

Visiting the Design Museum
How to Get There

Address: 224–238 Kensington High Street, London W8 6AG

By Tube: High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines).

By Bus: Routes 9, 10, 27, 28, 49, 328 stop nearby.

By Car: Limited parking; public transport recommended.

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, 10am–6pm. Main collection free; special exhibitions ticketed.

Facilities

Café and gift shop

Learning centre and event spaces

Step-free access throughout

Family-friendly interactive exhibits

Nearby Attractions

Victoria and Albert Museum: A global showcase of art and design.

Science Museum: Innovation and discovery for all ages.

Serpentine Galleries: Contemporary art in Kensington Gardens.

Royal Albert Hall: Iconic London venue for music and culture.

Together, they form a creative Kensington Design and Culture Trail.

Why Visit the Design Museum?

The Design Museum is more than a gallery — it’s a celebration of human creativity.
Every exhibit reminds visitors that design shapes everything — from the chair you sit on to the city you live in.

Whether you’re a designer, student, or curious traveller, you’ll leave inspired by the power of imagination to transform the world.

It’s where creativity meets purpose — and the future is being designed every day.