Cornwall Museum + Art Gallery | UK

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery has been at the heart of cultural life in Truro for more than 200 years. Home to over one million objects, the museum celebrates the stories, identity and heritage of Cornwall through collections of art, artefacts and photography.

The museum embarked on an ambitious transformation to improve accessibility, secure its historic building, and reimagine its galleries for future generations. The project marked a milestone in the institution’s history, culminating in its reopening in March 2025 with a new name, refreshed mission and revitalised visitor experience.

Michael Grubb Studio worked with architects Wignall and Moore to deliver a comprehensive lighting design strategy across the museum. Our work focused on the Mineral Gallery, Heart of Cornwall, and Nature Galleries, as well as the creation of a striking new upper-level art gallery. These interventions not only showcase the collections in a new light but also enhance accessibility, storytelling and visitor engagement.

Lighting Strategy for Museum Conservation and Visitor Experience

The design balances respect for the museum’s historic architecture with contemporary techniques. Carefully tailored lighting brings drama and clarity to mineral displays, introduces atmosphere to the immersive Heart of Cornwall, and sensitively illuminates natural history exhibits. In the art gallery, controlled and flexible lighting allows the museum to display its collections to the public for the first time in an environment that meets both conservation and curatorial standards.

The project has already received national recognition, with the Mineral Gallery shortlisted for Permanent Exhibition of the Year at the Museum & Heritage Awards 2025 and named Winner of the 2025 Cornwall Heritage Awards for Innovation. These accolades highlight the museum’s forward-looking approach and the role of design in shaping an engaging and sustainable visitor offer.

Our collaboration has helped deliver a museum that honours its 200-year history while confidently stepping into the future, providing a cultural hub for Cornwall that will inspire and connect audiences for generations to come.