Objects displayed on large plinths foregrounding cultural or physical relationships rather than disciplinary contexts

Designs of the Year

Exhibition design for the Design Museum’s annual review of the best design in the world.

David Kohn Architects was commissioned by the Design Museum to design the exhibition ‘Designs of the Year 2011’. The resulting design approach was to display objects on large plinths that foregrounded their cultural or physical relationships rather than their disciplinary contexts.

The plinths were minimal modular frames constructed of carbon fibre rods, brass connectors and fabric-wrapped aluminium tops. These elements could be reconfigured to suit the objects eventually chosen for the exhibition. Slotting together much like tent poles, the plinths were quick to erect and deconstruct whilst light and compact to transport. Consequently the Museum could re-use the system rather than disposing of the materials which usually happens after each show.

Colourful canvas banners and bunting were draped over a horizon of cables spanning the ceiling, giving the space a street festival atmosphere appropriate to the celebratory nature of the exhibition.

The innovative display system was subsequently included in the Aram Gallery exhibition, ‘Bauhaus Live,’ which explored the influence the Bauhaus continues to exert on contemporary design.