THE architect behind Scotland’s landmark new museum was in Dundee yesterday to see his cliff-inspired vision revealed for the first time.

Kengo Kuma took inspiration from Scottish geography when drawing up plans for the new V&A Museum of Design Dundee by the Tay.

Yesterday the Japanese architect was on site to see progress as the temporary cofferdam, which allowed the £80 million centre to be built into the river, was removed.

This work revealed the building’s waterside front, while all 2500 cast stone panels have now been hung on the curving exterior walls.

While the work is on schedule for a 2018 opening, the final date has yet to be announced.

Yesterday Kuma said: “I’m truly in love with the Scottish landscape and nature.

“I really hope once finished this project will attract many people from the UK, and around the world, to the city and the museum.

“I hope as well that people from Dundee will use it as an everyday part of their city, that they will go there to enjoy the building with its surrounding public space and find a harmonious relationship between the museum, the riverside, the city and themselves.

“I am delighted and satisfied with what we’ve achieved so far. The realisation of the strong facade is great. We were able to express the dynamic scale of the interior, too – just as we had planned.”

Philip Long, director of the new museum, called Kuma’s visit a “real pleasure”, adding: “Everyone working on the design and construction should be incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone when we open the museum next year.”

Meanwhile, Dundee City Council leader John Alexander commented: “V&A Dundee is a very visible and tangible example of the city’s growing confidence, culture and regeneration – something which everyone in Dundee has bought into.

“The city has a new energy and vibrancy and this is a clear example of our bold ambition.”