The Anning Open: A Captivating Blend of History, Science, and Modernism
The Anning Open, nestled in the heart of the bustling city, stands as a true architectural marvel that captivates visitors from around the world. This iconic stadium, named in honor of the pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning, is a testament to the rich history and scientific heritage of the region.
Constructed in the late 19th century, the Anning Open was initially designed to house the botanical department of the British Museum’s Natural History section. The towering South Central Towers of the Grade I listed Waterhouse building played host to a hive of activity, as the rooms bustled with researchers, curators, and scientists studying the vast collections of specimens and artifacts housed within.
In the early 20th century, the Anning Open underwent a series of renovations and modifications, as the botanical department’s facilities were expanded and updated to meet the growing demands of the museum’s research and public engagement initiatives. The tower rooms were transformed into a veritable hub of scientific exploration, with specialized laboratories, mounting rooms, and collection spaces.
However, the Anning Open’s story took a dramatic turn during the Second World War. In the midst of the Blitz, the building sustained significant damage, with a broken roof and shattered windows. The ensuing decades saw further alterations, as the tower rooms were adapted to serve as laboratory and office spaces for the museum’s various departments.
It was not until the recent past that the Anning Open underwent a remarkable transformation, one that has breathed new life into this historic structure. As part of the museum’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its facilities and enhance the visitor experience, the tower rooms have been meticulously restored and repurposed, now serving as an exclusive space for the museum’s Members and Patrons.
A Celebration of Nature and Science
The Anning Open’s new incarnation is a testament to the museum’s commitment to celebrating the natural world and championing the contributions of women in science. The exquisitely curated suite of rooms, designed by Dannatt Johnson Architects, pays homage to the legacy of Mary Anning, whose pioneering work in palaeontology and fossil collecting has left an indelible mark on the field.
Upon entering the Anning Open, visitors are immediately captivated by a breathtaking sight – a U-shaped staircase built around a five-metre-tall cabinet of curiosities. This stunning display, inspired by the 16th-century Wunderkammer or “wonder rooms,” showcases an extraordinary collection of over 150 specimens and objects, ranging from ancient stone tools and antique instruments to glistening minerals and vibrant insects.
The attention to detail in the Anning Open’s design is truly remarkable. The walls are adorned with a wallpaper print that draws inspiration from the museum’s vast collections of botanical illustrations, showcasing a vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, and grains. This seamless integration of nature-inspired elements creates an immersive and visually captivating environment.
The restaurant and dining rooms, which can accommodate up to 54 diners, continue the celebration of the natural world. The menu features locally sourced, ethically procured seasonal dishes, complemented by the stunning views of Cromwell Road and the distant Crystal Palace and North Downs.
But the Anning Open is more than just a feast for the senses; it is a sanctuary for contemplation and learning. The Study provides a space for visitors to engage with the museum’s rich history and collections, surrounded by a curated selection of natural history books and framed facsimiles of Waterhouse’s exquisite sketches of the building’s terracotta beasts and flora.
Embracing Sustainability and Honoring History
The Anning Open’s commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. The carpets used throughout the space were sourced from the Net-Works initiative, which tackles the issue of discarded fishing nets in coastal communities by recycling them into carpet fibers. This innovative approach not only reduces the environmental impact but also provides a source of income for the participating communities.
Beneath the Anning Open’s modern elegance lies a deep respect for the building’s historic roots. The post-war additions have been carefully removed, revealing the original Victorian Gothic architecture and allowing the space to be reimagined in a way that seamlessly blends the past and the present.
The Anning Open’s transformation is a testament to the museum’s dedication to preserving its rich heritage while embracing the future. By naming the rooms in honor of Mary Anning, the museum is not only celebrating her groundbreaking contributions to science but also championing the role of women in the field – a cause that remains deeply important in the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the scientific community.
Captivating Visitors and Inspiring the Future
As visitors explore the Anning Open, they are treated to a multisensory experience that transcends the traditional museum setting. The stunning architecture, the meticulously curated displays, and the breathtaking views all come together to create a truly immersive and engaging environment.
The cabinet of curiosities, in particular, has become a focal point of the Anning Open, captivating visitors with its eclectic collection of specimens and artifacts. The display not only reflects the breadth and diversity of the museum’s holdings but also serves as a reminder of the enduring fascination with the natural world that has driven scientific exploration for centuries.
But the Anning Open is more than just a showcase of the past; it is a space that inspires and informs the future. The museum’s ongoing research and conservation efforts, as well as its commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues like climate change and ocean acidification, are woven into the fabric of the Anning Open.
As visitors explore the Anning Open, they are encouraged to engage with the museum’s work, to ask questions, and to delve deeper into the topics that pique their curiosity. Whether it’s learning about the intricacies of insect diversity, the marvels of the mineral collection, or the latest advancements in marine biology, the Anning Open provides a gateway to a world of discovery and wonder.
Conclusion: A Captivating Fusion of Past and Present
The Anning Open stands as a testament to the enduring power of architecture, science, and human ingenuity. This iconic stadium, nestled within the storied halls of the Natural History Museum, has been transformed into a captivating fusion of past and present, where the legacy of Mary Anning and the museum’s rich scientific heritage are celebrated and brought to life.
As visitors step through the doors of the Anning Open, they embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and inspiration. From the awe-inspiring cabinet of curiosities to the serene spaces for contemplation and learning, every aspect of the Anning Open is designed to captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.
Whether you’re a seasoned museum-goer or a first-time visitor, the Anning Open offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It is a place where the past and the present converge, where the natural world and the human endeavor to understand it come together in a harmonious celebration of knowledge, curiosity, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
So, if you find yourself in the heart of the city, be sure to visit the Anning Open and immerse yourself in the captivating world of architecture, science, and the enduring legacy of Mary Anning and the Natural History Museum. It is a experience that will linger long in your memory, inspiring you to continue exploring the wonders of the natural world.
