Mather & Co, renowned for their innovative exhibition designs, is set to infuse Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens with a breath of fresh air. The esteemed design agency has secured a substantial National Lottery Heritage Fund grant to bring to life a vision that intertwines Sunderland’s proud industrial heritage with modern, interactive storytelling.
The museum’s transformation is poised to encapsulate the essence of Sunderland, a city shaped by shipbuilding, coal mining, glassmaking, and pottery. Mather & Co plans to harness the museum’s extensive collection to create exhibits that echo the past while speaking to the future. The design aims to offer a cohesive narrative that resonates with local pride and invites wider audiences to discover Sunderland’s unique story.
With a grant of nearly £300,000 earmarked for the project’s initial development phase, the ambition is to curate an experience that honours the city’s legacy and fosters community engagement. The proposed redesign will touch upon each of the museum’s four floors, creating a tapestry of the city’s industrial prowess and its indomitable spirit.
Paul Lee, Mather & Co’s Design Director, has expressed the team’s eagerness to collaborate with Sunderland’s community, intending to reflect a shared history while sparking curiosity and learning in visitors of all ages. The agency’s approach prioritises inclusivity and relevance, ensuring that the museum remains a central figure in Sunderland’s cultural and educational landscape.
The comprehensive redevelopment will see the museum’s existing narratives expanded and enriched, with plans to incorporate new, previously untold stories. This inclusive approach aims to draw a more diverse visitor base, enhancing the museum’s reputation as a cherished educational resource.
The successful completion of the development phase will set the stage for a delivery phase application to the Heritage Fund. If this next step is accomplished, Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens could see a transformative renovation that not only preserves but elevates the city’s historical narrative.
Mather & Co’s vision for the museum is a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating spaces that educate, engage, and inspire. As the museum embarks on this journey of renewal, it stands to become an enduring symbol of Sunderland’s vibrant heritage and its commitment to future generations.
