Established in 1960, the National Army Museum (NAM) tells the story of the British Army from the middle-ages to modern day. A Cocoon team worked closely with the museum to re-configure the dated narrative journey through its labyrinthine home with a view to updating and revitalising both the storytelling and the visitor experience.

At the core of the masterplan was a desire to open up the museum building and, working with BDP Architects a series of interventions were made to create a new central court and arrival foyer capable of orienting visitors and housing a striking new entrance installation, shop and cafe. The introduction of new windows allowed light into the space, enhanced the welcome contributed to improved circulation.

Rather than the previous, and more traditional, chronological approach to the narrative, a thematic display was created that enabled visitors to better connect to the life and activities of soldiers across time - a soldier’s life, war, peace, innovation and technology.

Across all themes, stories bring the subject matter to life and promote connections and interactives allow visitors to step into the shoes of a soldier, including military drill and battlefield tactics. NAM also gives a voice to those who have served and seeks to open discussion and debate rather than present a single perspective.