The world famous Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is set to reopen on November 7th after nearly a year of renovations. The neo-classical façade of the building remains unchanged whilst inside, the GBP 61 million refurbishment by architect Rick Mather has doubled the available display space. The new layout has been brought completely up to date, and a new exhibition entitled ‘Crossing Cultures, Crossing Time’, emphasises the shared histories of different civilisations and regions of the world rather than highlighting the differences as was traditionally favoured. The faintly stuffy atmosphere of old has been replaced by a truly 21st century innovation.
Of the many stunning new displays, one of the most exciting features Lawrence of Arabia’s robes which can now be shown due to the state of the art environment control system in place. The reopening of the museum also sees the opening of the city’s first rooftop restaurant, which will offer panoramic views of the dreaming spires.
Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1
www.ashmolean.org/
