This report discusses the emphasis that should be given to environmental control in museums where historically unique and climatically sensitive objects are displayed and stored in perpetuity. The environmental conditions that should be provided for a range of museum objects are compared to those required by people. The differences and similarities in their respective environmental requirements and the choice between an active and passive approach to climate control are investigated. A discussion of the conversion of the Strand Block of Somerset House for use as an art gallery by the Courtauld Institute of Art illustrates the problem of reconciling the nature of historic buildings with their use as museums and the difficulties of providing suitable conditions for objects and people. The report concludes that a strategic approach to environmental control is required to achieve a balance among the requirements of objects, people and the building.