The David Bowie Centre will open its doors on September 13, 2025, granting unprecedented access to the extensive David Bowie archive for the first time. This facility will be a highlight of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)’s new East Storehouse location in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, which will partially open to the public on May 31, 2025.
The V&A secured the David Bowie archive in 2023. The archive features over 90,000 items, chronicling Bowie’s extensive career and impact as a cultural icon. Standout items include the “Ziggy Stardust” ensembles designed by fashion designer Freddie Burretti in 1972 and original lyrics for the musician’s top hits, such as Fame and Heroes.
The David Bowie Centre will be organized into three zones, offering a mix of curated displays and interactive audiovisual installations. Visitors can also explore quieter study areas, where an array of Bowie’s personal and professional memorabilia will be on display, such as stage costumes, musical instruments, makeup charts, and original sketches.
The development is part of the East Bank project, designed to attract visitors to a new cultural and educational district in East London. The V&A East Storehouse, which will have free entry, will house over 250,000 objects and 350,000 books in its 170,000-square-foot space. Among these items are pieces relating to Elton John, PJ Harvey, and the Sex Pistols, as well as iconic fashion items from designers like Biba, Balenciaga, and Schiaparelli. Visitors will be able to book in advance to view any item from the museum’s collection.
“Through V&A East Storehouse, visitors will be encouraged to immerse themselves in the magical behind-the-scenes world of museums and empowered to make their own journeys through the V&A’s global collections,” said Tim Reeve, deputy director and COO of the V&A, and chair of the East Bank Board.
