art

V&A East — one of the most anticipated cultural openings in London

Stratford has become a cultural outpost in East London. It is now home to a new campus of UAL, one of the UK’s most popular fashion universities, as well as BBC Music Studios and Sadler’s Wells East, a world-class dance theatre. On 18 April, V&A East opened within this growing cultural cluster. Its arrival has been highly anticipated for over a year. The nearby V&A Storehouse opened earlier in 2025.

V&A East has an intimate, almost chamber-like atmosphere, yet it clearly feels like a museum for the 21st century, addressing themes that resonate with contemporary audiences. The Words On Beauty team visited shortly after the opening and can confidently say it is an impressive space. The museum houses a mix of artefacts from different eras that feel relevant today.

The permanent exhibition features several iconic fashion pieces, including designs by Comme des Garçons and Issey Miyake. A showstopping shocking pink dress by Molly Goddard greets visitors at the entrance.

The concept behind V&A East centres on contemporary global culture. The museum includes a two-storey permanent display as well as a temporary exhibition, ‘The Music is Black: A British Story’.

The building itself, designed by the Dublin-based architectural practice O’Donnell + Tuomey, is defined by its layered structure and striking angles. There is also a terrace offering impressive views over East London.

The café is run by the team behind Jikoni. The menu is inspired by the diverse communities that have shaped East London’s food scene, featuring global flavours and rotating daily specials. The desserts are equally strong — the rhubarb and peppercorn meringue is a highlight.