Do All Display Cases Require the Same Conservation Standards?
Do All Display Cases Need the Same Level of Conservation Control?
Not every display scenario requires the same level of conservation control. Applying the highest conservation standards indiscriminately can add unnecessary complexity and cost without delivering meaningful benefit.
The appropriate level of specification depends on the nature of the objects displayed, their material sensitivity, and the intended duration of display. A proportionate approach ensures that conservation measures are targeted where they genuinely protect collections.
When High Conservation Standards Are Essential
Display cases designed around rigorous material control and Oddy Testing are critical when exhibiting:
- Metals, particularly silver, lead, and copper alloys
- Organic materials such as paper, textiles, parchment, leather, and wood
- Composite or mixed‑media objects
- Archaeological material
- Objects on long‑term or permanent display
In these scenarios, enclosed micro‑environments must be carefully engineered. Even low levels of off‑gassing can accumulate over time, leading to corrosion, embrittlement, discolouration, or irreversible surface change. High conservation‑grade specifications help ensure long‑term stability and minimise cumulative risk.
When a Lighter Specification May Be Appropriate
For inherently inert or highly stable objects, including:
- Glass
- Stone and ceramics
- Certain mineral specimens
- Robust contemporary materials
The risks posed by low‑level emissions from construction materials are significantly reduced. In these cases, particularly for short‑ to medium‑term exhibitions, a full conservation‑grade specification may not be necessary.
Adopting a lighter specification can still deliver safe, professional display solutions while avoiding unnecessary cost and technical complexity.
A Proportionate, Risk‑Based Approach
True conservation expertise lies not only in knowing how to meet the highest standards, but in understanding when they are required.
Access Displays applies a risk‑based approach informed by Oddy Testing, object sensitivity, display duration, and environmental context. This allows us to deliver display cases that are:
- Appropriate to the objects they contain
- Aligned with institutional priorities and budgets
- Scalable across different gallery types and exhibition programmes
Our advice is honest, defensible, and transparent—ensuring conservation resources are focused where they add genuine value.
Confidence for Institutions and Collections
By specifying display cases using an informed and proportionate conservation strategy, institutions gain:
- Reduced conservation risk where it matters most
- More efficient use of budgets and resources
- Increased confidence in specification and procurement decisions
- Alignment with recognised museum and heritage best practice
Access Displays delivers display solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality, and conservation performance—applying the right level of protection for every object, every time. This measured, expert‑led approach positions Access Displays as a trusted authority in conservation‑grade display case design.
