Issue 47 JUNE - Flipbook - Page 6
The National Gallery
Three decades of
facilitating evolution
For over 30 years, Purcell has supported the National Gallery through a series of sensitive and
ambitious projects. This longstanding partnership has helped the world-renowned institution to
adapt, grow and welcome millions of visitors while safeguarding its rich architectural legacy.
Purcell has led a range of initiatives, from conservation
and design projects to major gallery refurbishments, to the
most recent NG200 capital programme, including the
reimagining of the Sainsbury Wing in collaboration with
Selldorf Architects. Today, their work continues to
enhance the gallery’s impact on London’s cultural life.
“Purcell's understanding of our building and its setting is
profound. The firm's experience in engaging with planning
authorities has been invaluable. Sensitive and pragmatic is how
I would describe its approach.”
Dr Gabriele Finaldi, Director at The National Gallery
NG200
Sainsbury Wing and Supporter’s House
As part of the gallery’s bicentennial celebrations, a series
of capital works were commissioned by the gallery.
Designed by Selldorf Architects, in close collaboration
with Purcell as executive architect and heritage consultant, the completed project is a subtle yet impactful
Below, © The National Gallery, London, photo Edmund Sumner.
view of National Gallery Sainsbury Wing
upgrade that improves accessibility, visibility and
welcome, while preserving the building’s architectural
integrity.
“Our role in NG200 began at competition stage when Jon
Wright, our 20th-century heritage expert, authored an essay
articulating the Wing’s significance as Venturi Scott Brown’s
only UK project. We undertook extensive research, including
archival studies at Yale and site visits to key (VBSA) designed
buildings in the United States - such as the Vanna Venturi
House and Wu Hall at Princeton - providing essential context.
We also undertook thorough investigations into the origins and
development of the Sainsbury Wing design to establish which
parts and spaces of the building carried greatest significance in
terms of VSBA’s design philosophy.”
Alasdair Travers, Design Partner at Purcell
