Poole Museum in Dorset has reopened following a 20-month redevelopment.

The revamp has created a new entrance and glass atrium featuring a model of Poole harbour, as well as a terrace and visitor lounge with views of the harbour and old town.

The original fabric of the 18th century harbour warehouse – which houses the main displays – has been revealed to tell the story of the city’s ships trade and the lives of its inhabitants from prehistory to the present time.

The new Ceramics Gallery features a collection of Poole Pottery and other ceramics throughout the ages, while a new temporary exhibition showcases four textile works depicting local themes and information by community textile group, Thread.

The Sense of Place gallery is showing the first of a series of community displays called Hamworthy Voices, which includes stories and objects contributed by local people.

Architects Horden Cherry Lee designed the project and funding came from the Heritage Lottery Fund (£750,000) and local sources.