Dry Deck Displays – Cutty Sark

The Dry Deck exhibition at the Cutty Sark presented a unique challenge in designing a lighting scheme that both complemented the expansive, bright space and highlighted the intricate details of the iconic ship. The design had to strike a balance between natural and artificial light, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the authenticity of the maritime artefacts on display.

A key focus was the figurehead of the ship, Nannie, which received bespoke lighting to accentuate its craftsmanship. The warm glow of the lighting contrasted beautifully with the cool daylight streaming through the surrounding windows, creating a welcoming atmosphere and inviting visitors to pause and appreciate its significance.

Throughout the exhibition, lighting was strategically placed to showcase the textures, materials, and details of the ship and its artefacts. This thoughtful integration of light enhanced the visual impact of the Cutty Sark’s structure and emphasised its historical importance, from the wooden decking to the rigging.

The bespoke lighting fixtures, provided by Basis Lighting and Precision Lighting, offered flexibility to adjust light levels and direction, ensuring each piece was showcased optimally. This collaboration between the Royal Museums Greenwich team, MER Services Ltd, and lighting suppliers resulted in a striking design that brought the rich maritime history of the Cutty Sark to life, offering visitors a visually immersive experience.