Darwin Centre Phase 2 is a 180,000 square foot building adjoining the Grade 1 Listed Natural History Museum. The scheme was designed by Danish architects C F Møller and incorporates a 65-metre long, eight-storey-high cocoon encased within a glass box.

The facility was developed to house the Natural History Museum’s collection of 22 million insects and 4 million plants within a controlled environment. The innovative design allows greater public access to view the collection, whilst also providing new state of the art laboratories for the Museum’s scientific staff.

DML’s original role in the project was extended to include responsibility for
supporting the design and delivery of innovative, hands-on learning displays and resources that allow the public to explore the natural world and encourage their involvement to help conserve biodiversity.

The facility includes an interactive lecture theatre abd a live communications space in honour of Sir David Attenborough. The project was completed and opened by HRH Prince William in September 2009