Crucially, a new dynamic staircase encourages better circulation between the ground and second floors, inviting visitors to the refurbished Research Library, existing and new gallery spaces and a destination restaurant. The redevelopment creates a major new thematic gallery which hosts year-long exhibitions and a dedicated youth events studio space to support a wide range of activities including workshops, performances and discussion events.

The Hub, a new interdisciplinary research centre, and a Science Media Centre, also encourage engagement and collaborations between the scientific community and the public.