Haynes Motor Museum
A landmark transformation for learning, community and tourism
Client
Haynes Motor Museum
Location
Sparkford, Somerset
RIBA Work Stages
0-6
Services
Architecture
Overview
BoonBrown was appointed to deliver the £6 million transformation of Haynes Motor Museum, reimagining one of the UK’s most significant motoring attractions for future generations. The redevelopment enhanced visitor facilities, expanded exhibition space and created a distinctive new identity, helping establish the museum as the largest international motor museum in Britain.
The two and half year building project was split into two phases. Phase one, revealed the first of the new exhibition areas, a huge two-storey display area overlooking the Haynes test track and a £250,000 new family entertainment zone featuring a 1,500 square metre adventure playground with a myriad of motoring themed interactive games and miniature vehicles for children to enjoy.
Reimagining the visitor journey
The museum remained opened throughout the transformation. As visitors were welcomed into the museum to see phase one, work continued behind the scenes on completing phase two which includes the remodelling of the other display halls to ensure a more logical and easy to navigate layout and more room for the exhibits to be displayed.
The existing conference and banqueting suites have all been redesigned as well as a new additional larger suite added with landscaped external areas allowing the museum to offer hospitality packages to parties of all sizes up to 400 guests. This includes a private garden and parking area that can be used for exclusive vehicle displays
Inspired by motion
The final stage of phase two saw an impressive new museum frontage put into place that marked the start of the visitors’ journey. With stylish nods to motoring throughout, such as the sweep of the new external façade emulating the aerodynamic profile of a car and the modern yet minimalistic features of the new reception area reflecting a Bentley dashboard, leading to the welcoming new foyer.
Building a sustainable future
Sustainability was embedded within the redevelopment strategy. Investment in new infrastructure and modern facilities improved operational efficiency, reduced long-term running costs and created the flexibility needed to accommodate future expansion. These improvements help secure the museum’s educational mission, preserve its historic collection and support its long-term financial resilience.
At a glance
Scale
£6 million redevelopment of one of the UK's largest motoring attractions.
Design
New exhibition halls, hospitality facilities and an automotive-inspired entrance that redefines the visitor experience.
Sustainability
Future-proofed infrastructure supports long-term growth, operational efficiency and the preservation of a nationally significant collection.
Wellbeing
Interactive exhibits, family attractions and modern visitor facilities create an engaging experience for all ages.
Community
A major regional destination supporting education, events, tourism and the local economy.
Impact
Transforming a respected museum into a world-class visitor attraction and centre of excellence for historic motoring.
Summary
The transformation contributed to international recognition, including the museum receiving the prestigious Museum or Collection of the Year award at the International Historic Motoring Awards. Haynes Motor Museum demonstrates how thoughtful design can enhance heritage, strengthen communities and create lasting economic value. By combining architectural ambition with sustainability, education and visitor experience, the redevelopment has secured the museum’s future as a world-class destination, delivering benefits that will continue to be felt by visitors, businesses and the wider region for generations to come
Leisure and Tourism category