PLB, the renowned museum design agency, is thrilled to announce its recent success in winning the redesign project for The Gurkha Museum in Winchester. This prestigious project, part funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, stands as a testament to PLB’s commitment to preserving history, celebrating culture, and creating immersive and educational experiences for all.
” This is an exciting time for Gurkha heritage and for The Gurkha Museum. We are thrilled to appoint PLB as our design lead for the upcoming redesign of the Museum,” said Dr Daren Bowyer, Museum Director. “Their design team’s proven expertise and innovative approach assure us that the new space will not only honour Gurkhas’ heritage but also create a more engaging and accessible experience for all our visitors.”
Established in 1990, PLB has garnered a reputation for its innovative and visitor-centred approach to museum design, consistently delivering projects that engage, educate, and inspire. The redesign of The Gurkha Museum represents a significant opportunity for PLB to showcase its expertise and passion for storytelling, as it works to honour the rich history and valiant contributions of Gurkha soldiers.
The Gurkha Museum, situated in the heart of Winchester, serves as a crucial repository of the history and heritage of the Brigade of Gurkhas, a unique organisation within the British Army. The redesign project, part funded by a generous grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, aims to make The Gurkha Museum the global reference point for Gurkha heritage. Our role is to revitalise the museum space, creating a more immersive and engaging visitor experience.
“We are incredibly honoured to be entrusted with the redesign of The Gurkha Museum,” said Jamie McCall, Creative Director of PLB. “This project aligns perfectly with our mission to create museum spaces that tell compelling stories and connect visitors to the rich tapestry of our shared history. We are excited to join forces with our specialist project partners Pritchard Architecture, Fusion, Martin Thomas Associates and Marbas.”
Project Kaida is the Nepali name given to this comprehensive overhaul of the museum’s exhibitions, displays, and interactive elements., PLB is committed to creating a space that is not only visually stunning and informative, but also accessible to all, ensuring that the stories of Gurkha soldiers are shared with the widest possible audience.
“We believe that museums play a vital role in preserving our cultural heritage and educating future generations,” said Jim Holroyd, Project Lead at PLB. “We aim to bring our expertise to bear and deliver a redesign that truly does justice to the bravery, service, and sacrifice of Gurkha soldiers.”
The project is set to commence immediately, with a short period for refurbishment before opening for the public in early 2026. PLB looks forward to working closely with The Gurkha Museum team, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, project managers, activity planners, accessibility consultants and the wider Nepalese community to deliver a museum space that celebrates the Gurkha legacy and contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Winchester.
