Science and Technology Museum located in Bradford
The National Science and Media Museum in Bradford underwent a comprehensive transformation, led by AOC Architecture, which includes the introduction of the new Sound and Vision galleries, a reimagined main public foyer, enhanced public access, and significant environmental performance improvements [1][2].
The redevelopment adds two floors of permanent gallery space, stripping away outdated elements while reorganizing interior spaces to improve visitor spatial legibility and circulation. The Sound and Vision galleries invite visitors on an immersive journey through the evolution of media technologies, from monochrome to digital, using calm, sensory-focused displays and audiovisual immersive scenes that blend local stories with national heritage [2].
Inclusive design is a core principle of the project. AOC Architecture engaged closely with local access groups representing blind and visually impaired, d/Deaf, learning disabled, and neurodiverse communities, ensuring that the exhibition and building design meet diverse accessibility needs. Workshops with young people and local broadcasters enriched the content, embedding community voices within the galleries [1]. This is part of a larger, site-wide masterplan aligned with Bradford’s designation as the 2025 UK City of Culture [1][2].
The redevelopment also incorporated improvements to environmental performance and back-of-house infrastructure, contributing to the museum’s long-term sustainability goals [1]. A fabric-first approach and material reuse have been employed to minimize embodied carbon. Improved ventilation, LED lighting, and new services plant aim to reduce operational energy use.
The museum's foyer has been reconfigured as a more inclusive and welcoming public space. A flexible infrastructure allows it to adapt to a range of daily uses. AOC worked closely with local access groups representing various disabilities to ensure inclusive design principles. The foyer's new design accommodates large objects, cinema visitors, and public events [1].
A double-height void has been introduced to visually and physically connect the two gallery floors. Artist Nayan Kulkarni collaborated with AOC Architecture on an interactive installation named Circus in the new galleries. A natural material palette is used in the galleries, including timber, linoleum, and recycled acoustic linings [2].
The Sound and Vision galleries officially opened in July 2025, marking the latest phase of the masterplan. The redevelopment built on an existing 1960s and 1990s building, with extensive interior reorganization and removal of outdated sections undertaken during the project period leading up to 2025 [1]. The project has been supported by multiple funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, and others, reflecting its cultural and community significance [2].
In summary, AOC Architecture’s work at the National Science and Media Museum delivers an inclusive, environmentally conscious, and culturally resonant transformation centered on the new Sound and Vision galleries that engage diverse audiences through innovative design and programming [1][2]. AOC Architecture is leading the design and delivery of the museum's entire site as part of a long-term masterplan.
- The transformation of the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, led by AOC Architecture, includes enhancing environmental performance, a focal point in the project's sustainable goals.
- The new Sound and Vision galleries, a highlight of the redevelopment, invite visitors on a journey through media technology evolution, combining local stories with national heritage.
- Inclusive design is a cornerstone of the project, with AOC Architecture collaborating with various access groups and local communities to ensure the exhibition and building design cater to diverse needs.
- The redevelopment includes two additional floors of permanent gallery space, a reconfigured foyer, and a double-height void connecting the two gallery floors.
- The museum's foyer has been redesigned to accommodate various daily functions, with a flexible infrastructure to cater to large objects, cinema visitors, and public events.
- The Sound and Vision galleries employ a natural material palette, including timber, linoleum, and recycled acoustic linings, in an effort to minimize embodied carbon.
- Innovative design and programming aim to engage diverse audiences in the new galleries, which officially opened in July 2025, marking the latest phase of the masterplan.
- The project has been backed by various funders, such as The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, and others, underlining its cultural and community significance.
