National Science and Media Museum
The Brief
As part of an exciting new visitor experience, the Science Museum Group commissioned Leach to support the visual transformation of Power Up – a re-energised space at the Science and Media Museum in Bradford. The zone is designed to engage visitors of all ages through interactive displays, digital installations and playful visual storytelling.
Leach has a long-standing partnership with the Science Museum Group, having previously worked for their sites on Manchester and Liverpool. This project marked the first time the team had collaborated on a major installation in Bradford, building on the trust, reliability and workmanship demonstrated across earlier projects.
The brief was to produce and install a range of high-quality display graphics and structural elements that would elevate the visitor experience and maximise the layout of what is the paid area of an otherwise free museum. The space needed to feel bold, modern and immersive, creating a strong visual identity that complements the interactive nature of the exhibition.
The Solution
To bring Power Up to life, Leach worked in close partnership with a specialist company responsible for creating the neon elements of the exhibition. Having collaborated with them multiple times before, the teams were able to integrate their solutions seamlessly, ensuring both aesthetic consistency and a smooth installation process.
Leach delivered a comprehensive suite of printed and fabricated components, including:
- 71 window fins
- 2 large-format wallpapers
- Raised acrylic lettering
- 20 object labels
- Graphic applications across key areas of the space
The Leach installation team handled the majority of on-site work, carefully fitting the acrylic, wallpapers and window graphics. While the neon elements were installed by the partner company, close coordination ensured that all components aligned perfectly in terms of placement, quality and finish.
Although working with materials supplied by other companies can occasionally present challenges, the long-standing relationship between all parties meant the process was smooth, efficient and collaborative from start to finish.
With a week-and-a-half turnaround, the project moved quickly, a testament to strong communication, detailed planning and mutual trust. What began as a small project in scale resulted in a bold visual transformation of a high-footfall visitor attraction.
The Results
The completed installation delivered a bright, engaging and contemporary environment that enhances the visitor journey throughout the Power Up experience. The combination of raised acrylic, impactful wallpapers and dynamic window fins helped establish a cohesive look and feel, while maximising the footprint of the exhibition zone.
Feedback from the Science and Media museum team was highly positive, with staff praising the quality of the finished graphics, the professionalism of the installation, and the overall impact the work had on the space.
“We’ve had great feedback on the finished installation, the graphics look fantastic and the space has been completely transformed. It creates a strong visual identity and really elevates the visitor experience.”
Bringing the Project to Life
For Leach, the project demonstrated the power of strong partnerships, both with the Science Museum Group and with trusted specialist suppliers.
“This was a smooth, collaborative project from start to finish” said Emma Isbister, Senior Account Manager at Leach. “Working with familiar partners meant everyone understood the standards expected, and the final installation really shows what can be achieved when high-quality print and fabrication come together in a well-designed space.”
Want to find out how Leach can help elevate your exhibition or visitor attraction with creative, large-format print solutions? Get in touch with our team to discuss your next project.
