I am quoted as saying I had “no interest in the culture of the labouring classes” (News April 5).

David Chipperfield, Geffrye Museum

View of proposed garden gallery looking south

This is absolutely not my opinion and it has almost certainly been reported inaccurately. As a historian and museum professional, the idea that I would restrict my interests according to classes within society is nonsense.

Through a series of period rooms, the Geffrye explores the homes of the urban middle classes. However, through our research, exhibitions and learning programmes, our interest and approach to the home includes any and every type of home, regardless of class, culture, place or time.

We want to open the museum up to more people from local and wider communities to enjoy, learn from and engage with the Geffrye. The new scheme will help us to do this and ensure the Geffrye remains one of London’s most friendly and best-loved museums.

David Dewing
Director, The Geffrye

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