The Cutty Sark Pavillion exhibition was designed to maintain public interest in the ship whilst structural and restoration work was carried out. The exhibition also offered visitors an opportunity to see on going works and provided the Trust with an additional fund raising vehicle.
Designmap were appointed as interpretation design specialists, joining architects Youmeheshe and digital interactive firm Heritage Multimedia to form a cross-disciplinary design team. All members of the team have crossover responsibilities.
The Cutty Sark restoration process involved the removal of masts, planks and cabin areas for storage and conservation at Chatham Historic Dockyard. Cabin elements and other artefacts were also used as feature exhibits within the Pavilion exhibition.
The exhibition was inspired by the concept ‘voyage’. Objects and interactives are displayed simply in a system of ‘Tea Chest’ cases, alluding to the Tea Clipper’s working past and suggesting items in transit.
Graphics were printed on sail cloth with object captions made from luggage tags.
In addition to interpretive design, Designmap created a new brand identity for the project which was applied external signage and advertising as well as a range of printed materials and branded merchandising. The brand is seen as a transitional identity which will evolve when the ship reopens.
The Cutty Sark fire has unfortunately led to the closure of the Pavilion exhibition.
We are currently working with the Trust to develop the new displays and interpretive design for the restored ship, due to re-open in 2010.