SPACE Architects Celebrate the Opening Festivities of Beamish Museum's New Exhibits

SPACE Celebrate the Opening Festivities of Beamish Museum's New Exhibits

The Remaking Beamish project has ushered in an exciting new era for Beamish Museum, marked by the opening of several new exhibits.

Over the course of two weekends, the Living Museum of the North welcomed its first visitors to experience the meticulously crafted new spaces, transporting them back to the Georgian era and the vibrant 1950s. The festivities began with the opening of the Drover's Tavern and Pottery in the Georgian Landscape, followed by the unveiling of the 1950s Grand Cinema, Toy, and electrical shops, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) learning space. The debuts of these new exhibits represent significant milestones in the museum's mission to preserve and animate the region's heritage.

SPACE, appointed as Architects, Landscape Architects, and Lead Designers of this comprehensive project, are proud to have played an important role in the creation of these new attractions.

Associate Director of SPACE Phil Lloyd shared his pride in the project, stating, "The Remaking Beamish project has been a truly collaborative effort. We are incredibly proud to contribute to such a meaningful cultural endeavour, which not only preserves but vividly brings to life the rich history of the region. These new additions will undoubtedly offer visitors an immersive and educational experience, and we are thrilled to see it all come together."

The opening of the Drover's Tavern and Pottery took place from June 21st to June 23rd. Highlights from the opening weekend included a spectacular fire show, traditional Georgian music, clog dancing, pottery-making sessions and the engaging Drover's Challenge. Visitors enjoyed musket-firing demonstrations by the Durham Light Infantry re-enactment group and also had the opportunity to meet farm animals and speak to members of the Gardens and Woodland Team.

SPACE designed and managed the renovation and transformation of these structures located near the original Pockerley Old Hall, including converting an outbuilding into the authentic Georgian 1820s Drover's Tavern, and the rural Pottery complete with a unique external beehive kiln. These new additions also feature comprehensive back-of-house facilities, including a full commercial kitchen, storage areas, staff areas, and restrooms. Additionally, adjacent farm buildings and cottages have been converted into self-catering accommodations, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to stay overnight.

The celebrations continued with the opening of the 1950s Grand Cinema and shops on July 6th. Our team were delighted to attend and showcase their work to family and friends, marking a full-circle moment for Phil Lloyd and Carinna Gebhard, whose personal connections and history of many family trips to the museum added special significance to the project. Attendees were awed by the bespoke elements in the spaces, from custom art deco carpets to recognisable toys from their childhood. Reflecting a love of archiving and passion for the project, alongside the individually chosen pieces of history woven throughout the exhibits, Carinna even included a family heirloom light fixture in the repair shop, as well as handles from her children's school after discovering the original ironmongery was to be replaced by more modern fittings.

Reflecting on the experience, Carinna Gebhard explained, "It was so great to attend the opening of the 1950s cinema and shops on Saturday with my family, to finally share this unique project and see the visitors flocking through the doors. Working with the Remaking Beamish Team, starting through covid, having meetings outside on the grass, through to now opening the doors of the cinema and shops to the public, has been an absolute pleasure. I can certainly say this has been a completely one-of-a-kind project."

The Grand Cinema, originally from Ryhope, was inaugurated by Bill Mather, a former trainee projectionist at the Grand in the 1950s, and Gary Hepple, who donated the cinema to the museum. Mather shared his fond memories and called the cinema his "Palace of Dreams," celebrating the recreation of the beloved venue.

The toy shop, named after Romer Parrish's popular 1950s shop in Middlesbrough, was opened by his son, Brian Parrish. Visitors can explore the story of Romer Parrish, view toys from Beamish's collection, and purchase 1950s-style toys and games. Additionally, the Reece Ltd Radio and Electrical Services shop, named after North East engineer Alan Reece, offers a glimpse into 1950s appliances and music. Visitors can browse the latest 1950s gadgets in the showroom and listen to popular hits in the record shop's listening booths.

The opening of the 1950s exhibits was another splendid affair. It featured a parade led by the Ryhope Allstars Jazz Band, community groups, music, and dancers. Displays from the Cleveland Miniaturists, local schools, and community groups were showcased alongside vintage vehicles and bowling activities.

During the opening, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness explained,"Beamish is a huge asset to our region, and not only brings enormous joy to people who visit, it plays a crucial role in our economy, supporting local jobs and attracting 800,000 visitors every year. It embodies everything that is great about the North East: steeped in our rich culture and heritage and the great pride we feel about our region, and optimistic about the future. The opening of these wonderful new 1950s Town exhibits demonstrates the growing strength of our tourism offer."

Thanks to the contributions of National Lottery players and the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Beamish Museum and SPACE Architects have collaborated to create dynamic, educational, and historically rich environments that promise to captivate and educate visitors for years to come. While the Georgian Landscape additions deepen the narrative of droving, packhorse trails, and early industry, providing a rare glimpse into historical lifestyles and practices, the Grand Cinema, Toy, and Repair shops speak to the importance of community and togetherness. These new exhibits provide spaces for grandparents and grandchildren to share the joy of watching a film together in a 1950s cinema, for friends to catch up over lunch at the Drover's Tavern, and for students to engage in hands-on learning in the STEM space.

While all the exhibits mentioned are now open to visitors, the self-catering cottages will welcome their first guests later this summer.