Over the centuries, the building was damaged by fire and different demolition projects. This, however, is about to change as the factory has been subjected to a massive five-year renovation project, which will end in the spring of 2021.
The Maker Movement Inspired the Idea of Resurrecting the Factory
The structure will rise again from ruins and will be used as a museum dedicated to the physical acts of creating and mending. The maker movement is a subculture that honors the skills necessary to craft something out of raw materials. It celebrates woodworking, metallurgy, textile design, and more. It focused on repurposing existing objects, which ultimately allows people to experience the fun and fulfillment of creating something with their hands.
Derby-based development agencies and the local Arts Council were granted a sum of $24 million from the national lottery fund to help with the reconstruction and reopening of the factory. The museum is located in Derwent Valley Mills a World Heritage Site along the River Derwent.
The Derby Community Contributed to the Realization of the Project
The people responsible for the museum held extensive consultations with the local community and used their feedback to shape and design the building. In addition, volunteers cleaned 11,000 bricks from the original factory so they can be reused during the renovation of the structure.
The new museum is designed by renowned firm Bauman Lyon Architects and retains the factory’s Italianate tower, Grade-I listed gates, and arches. The building’s concept is a mish-mash between lots of different periods so the structure itself can tell the story of crafts making.
The Museum of Making will display an amazing collection of 30,000 artifacts, which range from a gigantic Rolls-Royce engine to a tiny 1930s motor that is run by a single human hair. With the opening of the gallery, the world’s first factory will continue to build its legacy.