Din behind Althorp Diana tribute

Retail specialist Din Associates is creating a visitors centre in a listed stable block at Althorp in Northamptonshire, in tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales.

The consultancy has created interior and exhibition design proposals, plus work on ticketing, graphics and signage. It is working with conservation architect Giles Quarme and English Heritage to agree acceptable developments to the 200-year-old building on the Spencer family estate.

The centre will open from 1 July to 30 August every year, starting this summer. It will include a restaurant, information centre and shop.

The Spencer family is still deciding what merchandise to sell in the shop, says consultancy founder Rasshied Din. The family does not want to be perceived as cashing in on Diana’s reputation, but many visitors demand mementos to be available.

Much of the exhibition will concentrate on Diana’s work for good causes. “The whole point is to celebrate her work, rather than being a mausoleum,” says Din.

Din confirms that a replacement for graphics director Valerie Wickes is about to be appointed.

Wickes left the consultancy for a New York advertising company late last year.