Natural History Museum

SVM have been engaged to undertake several projects at London's Grade 1 Listed Natural History Museum.  The Collections Storage Infrastructure Programme (CSIP) currently consists of four projects termed 'The Wilderbeest Project,' 'The Quarantine Project,' 'The Molecular Collections Project,' and 'The Archives Project.'

The Wildebeest Project - This project involves the relocation of the Entomological and Zoological Collections and their respective departments.  This included the design of all services within the new location of the former Origins Gallery.

The Quarantine Project - This project involves the creation of quarantine facilities at both sites to reduce the risk of contamination and also provide the ability to treat infestations.  The project includes the provision of a Mount Making Facility and Large Vertebrate Preparation Facility in order to allow the preparation of collections under appropriate conditions.  This includes dissection tables, fume cupboards, 2 tonne manual block and tackle, and freezers large enough to contain a Rhinoceros.

The Molecular Collections Project - The aim of this project is to create a world leading specialised and centralised storage facility for the management and maintenance of molecular collections including DNA, tissue samples, cryogenics and liquid nitrogen storage.

The Archive Project - SVM have extensive experience and expertise in archive design to BS5454 standards.  SVM are responsible for providing a modern records storage and archive facility environmentally controlled to BS5454 to maintain the Museum's 'place of deposit' status.