Studio MB to recreate life of Russian Imperial family

National Museums of Scotland has appointed Edinburgh design group Studio MB, following a six-way pitch for a six-figure sum, to design the Nicholas and Alexandra exhibition, celebrating the life of the Imperial Russian family.

The exhibition, opening in July, will feature up to 450 artefacts sourced from the state hermitage museum in St Petersburg. It will be the first time the collection has visited the UK and includes state costumes, Fabergé jewellery, personal possessions, photographs and paintings.

Studio MB co-founding partner Charlie Barr says the group is creating a ‘story of the short but significant life of the family’. Eight zones will present a variety of visual and sensory experiences using light, scale, sound, audiovisuals and temperature.

‘The concept is to create a diverse platform that will give the artefacts dramatic context and enhance the gripping story of Russia’s last Imperial family. [It will be] an emotional journey,’ says Craig Mann, lead designer on the project and co-founding partner.

Studio MB is also developing the identity for the exhibition.