Exploring Dundee’s Cultural Renaissance

Dundee isn’t an obvious destination in a country with so much to offer, but Scotland’s fourth largest city has significant plans to transform its gritty, post-industrial landscape into a thriving hub of culture and design excellence, with a particular focus on the new V&A Museum. Opening in September 2018, Kengo Kuma’s architectural marvel is the centerpiece of urban redevelopment that has garnered attention both locally and internationally.

A City in Transition

Arriving on a frosty Sunday evening, I head to Malmaison, enjoying a front-row view of the new V&A Dundee. The sun sets over the River Tay, casting a golden hue on the museum’s concrete strata, inspired by the Arbroath cliffs, embodying both ancient and modern designs—akin to a space-age vessel inviting exploration.

The V&A, a sister institution to the original Victoria & Albert Museum in London, serves as more than just a landmark; it’s a catalyst for broader transformation. Situated at the heart of a £1 billion waterfront redevelopment, initiated in 2001, the museum replaces a tangle of old roads with open spaces, Slessor Park, a revamped train station, and an emerging array of hotels and restaurants such as Waters Edge.

After decades of detachment from its docks, Dundee is reconnecting with the River Tay, with the museum inviting citizens back to Craig Harbour to celebrate Scottish design and culture. The city’s revitalization is a community effort, showcasing notable projects like the Dundee Rep, Scotland’s only repertory theatre, born from public appeal and donation efforts. Similarly, Dundee Contemporary Arts transformed from an old car park into a thriving arts organization.

In the past 25 years, Dundee Council has not only approved the Waterfront Masterplan but has also facilitated the creation of The Space, a multi-purpose performance venue; completed a £2 million redevelopment of Dundee Science Centre; and restored High Mill at the historic Verdant Works jute textile museum. Cllr John Alexander, passionate about his hometown, emphasizes the opportunity to transform Dundee forever.

A Cultural Bridge

Previously, Dundee’s beloved museum was the McManus, a magnificent Gothic Revival structure designed by George Gilbert Scott. This library and gallery highlight the city’s historical achievements in trade and manufacturing through a beautiful collection of artefacts.

When visiting on a misty Monday morning, the galleries are alive with families deeply engaged in the ‘Making of Modern Dundee’ exhibit. Guests point out various artifacts—from hand-loom mill shuttles to iconic local food products—creating an enriching experience that fosters connections across generations.

Director Philip Long aims to cultivate these connections at V&A Dundee, transforming the museum into a dynamic institution reconnecting locals with their manufacturing heritage while also introducing international visitors to Scotland’s design significance. The museum’s inaugural exhibit, Ocean Liners: Speed & Style, aptly showcases the engineering marvels shaped by Scottish creativity.

The museum includes learning spaces and a Michelin Design Gallery, showcasing outreach programs like the Scottish Design Relay and the innovative Bonnetmakers project. Dundee’s design narrative not only connects to its rich past but also charts a course for future creativity.

Designing a City Fit for the Future

Dundee’s revival from one of Scotland’s most deprived cities reflects a conscious strategy, leveraging cultural investments and fostering a creative economy. The city is home to outstanding designers, game developers, graphic artists, dancers, and medical innovators who are driving a new economic narrative. UNESCO recognized this shift in 2014, designating Dundee as a City of Design.

The prestigious title is commemorated each May during the Dundee Design Festival, where local creatives showcase their work and develop collaborations with international cities like Detroit and Shenzhen. The festival fosters a spirit of innovation, with events hosted in the historic settings of the local print works.

Motivated by Dundee’s new optimistic outlook, returning locals like Duncan Alexander have opened enterprises such as the craft brewery 71 Brewing. This site, close to Verdant Works and the WASPS Studios, offers a space for emerging artists. There are plans for food trucks and collaborations with local street art collectives like Open Close.

On my final day, a visit to Broughty Ferry for lunch at Adam Newth’s beachside restaurant, The Tayberry, proves delightful. With the River Tay sparkling under the sun and the possibility of dolphin sightings, it is a serene environment. Enjoying a meal of sustainably-sourced Scrabster Coley, it’s clear that Dundee, with its dynamic design landscape and cultural richness, is undoubtedly worth exploring.

Paula Hardy traveled to Dundee with the support of VisitScotland and Dundee, One City, Many Discoveries.