Tate Liverpool is seeking tenders from architects for a ‘major reimagining’ of its James Stirling-designed gallery and public spaces, first opened in 1988 at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool.
The £25m refurbishment of Tate Liverpool’s gallery and public spaces will increase the destination’s visibility on the waterfront and Albert Dock. It will also provide engaging routes through the building, and create a seamless visitor experience.
Tate Liverpool opened in 1988 within a former dockside complex that was converted by Stirling. The successful architecture firm will be tasked with reimagining gallery spaces, creating social spaces, and developing a flexible and inviting environment.
“Tate Liverpool is now embarking on ambitious £25m programme to reimagine and redevelop the gallery complex,” the brief says. “Tate is looking to appoint a professional team to support this ambition and to bring coherent architectural and engineering response to the needs and expectations of present-day artists and visitors.”
Register interest by February 4
The brief adds: “A successful project will balance these needs with the heritage significance of Jesse Hartley‘s19th century Grade I listed structure and the remnants of the 1980s Stirling Wilford conversion.”
The full brief can be viewed here. Architects need to register their interest by February 4, with shortlisted architecture firms set to be confirmed by March 18.
The development comes after a £10m cash boost to Tate Liverpool announced as part of the 2021 Budget. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak also revealed plans for yet another Beatles attraction in Liverpool.
“Levelling up is also about protecting our unique culture and heritage,” Sunak said. “The British Museum, Tate Liverpool, the York Railway Museum, we’re investing £850m to protect museums, galleries, libraries, and local culture.”
“And thanks to the Culture Secretary, over 100 regional museums and libraries will be renovated, restored and revived,” he added. “And she’s secured up to £2m to start work on a new Beatles attraction on the Liverpool waterfront.”
Images: Tate
