London art gallery鈥檚 grade II-listed base to be restored and enhanced by practice behind recent overhaul of Sainsbury Wing
The Wallace Collection has appointed Selldorf Architects to overhaul the museum鈥檚 historic base in central London.
The New York-based practice behind the recently completed facelift of the National Gallery鈥檚 Sainsbury Wing will work with Purcell on a 鈥渢ransformational鈥� rethink of Hertford House, the museum said.
The appointment follows a contract notice for the 拢1.2m role launched by the art gallery in October last year, with the job expected to run for six years.
The project will 鈥渞eimagine and revitalise鈥� the grade II-listed building in Marylebone, a former mansion house dating to the late 18th century which was opened to the public as a museum in 1900 with its extensive art collection including Frans Hals鈥� The Laughing Cavalier.
The Wallace Collection said the scheme will aim to preserve the 鈥渃harm and unique character of the building鈥� while improving its access, sustainability and visitor experience.
It will also see existing gallery spaces enhanced and the creation of a new learning centre, along with the potential for upgrades to restaurant, event and back-of-house staff spaces.
鈥淭he masterplan marks a significant investment in the long-term future of the museum and its ability to connect diverse audiences with one of the world鈥檚 most remarkable art collections,鈥� the museum said.
The team will work with London practice Lawson Ward Studio, which developed the original project brief and brings experience from its work on the recently opened Roden Centre for Creative Learning at the National Gallery.
Detailed design of the scheme is set to continue over the course of this year alongside a fundraising campaign. It is currently unknown when a planning application will be submitted.
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