The National Gallery launches competition for architect to design new wing for central London site

The National Gallery has launched a global architecture competition for a new wing.

 

Founded on the principal of making art accessible to all in 1824, the National Gallery has grown to host a collection of 2,400 artworks and paintings.

 

The third stage of an ambitious masterplan is underway with St Vincent House to create a new wing. This site sits between the existing gallery in Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square among the Trafalgar Square Conservation area. The existing building is considered a ’negative feature’. 

 

The goal of The National Gallery to enhance visitor experience with this new extension, providing both permanent and temporary gallery spaces. At approximately 5,500-7,000 sqm, the new wing will merge with the existing Sainsbury Wing and North Wing whilst reimagining the public realm between the spaces.

 

“By creating opportunities for unique programming, community engagement, national and international partnerships, this new chapter will redefine how art is experienced and celebrated,” says Sir Gabriele Finaldi, Director, The National Gallery.

 

Consideration of sustainability is also key with The Gallery aiming for net zero which may include reuse of the existing St Vincent House. Designs should be beautiful and striking to extend the seamless internal movement with the external appearance.

 

Sir Finaldi continues that, "Architecturally striking and thoughtfully integrated, the new wing will symbolise the UK’s commitment to culture and heritage, standing as a landmark of both local and international significance.” 

 

Both Leicester and Trafalgar square form great gathering spaces with many other nearby streets turning towards pedestrianisation or public realm improvement. However, much of the space is heavily trafficked and served by back streets.

 

The exterior design should invite users to experience the quieter back streets of Leicester Square, showcasing the new wing as more than  a ’backdoor entrance’. This area should reflect the great London Squares the Gallery is sandwiched between, forming an urban intervention that is not only a journey, but also a welcoming invite to the Gallery. Overall, this will see the new wing and public realm extended beyond the red line of St Vincent House to transform the wider context and provide a new space for communication between the public and the Gallery.

 

Deadline for Stage 1 of the project is on 17 October. Interested parties should complete the Procurement Specific Questionnaire on The National Gallery’s Delta Portal: www.delta-esourcing.com/delta/respondToList.html?accessCode=C2Z8RA73MZ

 

Up to six architects will be shortlisted to move onto Stage 2 for the design competition. Each candidate that is shortlisted to take part in Stage 2 will be offered an honorarium of £50,000 (+ VAT if appropriate), payable on receipt of a compliant Stage 2 submission.

 

The National Gallery is welcoming entries from UK and International firms who can showcase their place making, design and collaboration skills. Smaller practices are encouraged to enter, although may have to partner with a large organisation due to the scope of the works. Full details and documentation are available at Colander: colander.co.uk/architectural-competitions/colander-competitions/the-national-gallery

 

This new opportunity will open up new opportunities, programming and partnerships for The Gallery and those involved.