The Wallace Collection has appointed Selldorf Architects to lead the design and delivery of a transformation of its historic home in London.
The New York-based architecture firm will reimagine and revitalise the museum’s spaces in collaboration with heritage architects Purcell and Lawson Ward Studio.
The design team will preserve the unique character of the museum’s Hertford House building while improving access, sustainability and the visitor experience.
Director of the Wallace Collection, Dr Xavier Bray, said: “The Wallace Collection occupies a unique place in the national and international museum landscape – an exceptional collection in an extraordinary historic home.”
The design team’s “thoughtful, collaborative approach and track record of working with complex heritage buildings gives us great confidence as we embark on this transformational journey”, said Bray.
The Wallace Collection recently welcomed over 500,000 visitors in a single year for the first time, partly due to a series of acclaimed exhibitions in recent years.
Museum to improve visitor experience
In response to this growth, the transformation will address priorities including improving guest circulation, enhancing gallery spaces, and creating a new learning centre.
Additionally, the project includes upgrading environmental conditions and enhancing accessibility throughout the building.
There is also potential to reimagine the museum’s temporary exhibition space, restaurant and event facilities, and staff and back-of-house areas.
Annabelle Selldorf, principal of Selldorf Architects, said the project will make the museum’s “magnificent collection of paintings, decorative arts and arms and armour more accessible”.
She added, “Engaging a wider audience with art and the building’s beautiful architecture is vital and the project presents an exciting opportunity to re-examine essential aspects of the visitor’s experience.
“Bringing people closer to art matters to us and is a core part of our firm’s work.”
The Wallace Collection’s masterplan is in its early stages. This year, the museum will focus on design development, stakeholder engagement and technical surveys.
Additionally, a fundraising campaign is being developed.
Images courtesy of the Wallace Collection
