Courtauld Connects

The Courtauld Gallery, renowned for housing one of the UK's premier art collections, embarked on a significant modernisation project to enhance accessibility, visitor experience, and educational facilities. The challenge lay in sympathetically upgrading the historic 18th-century building, designed by Sir William Chambers, to meet contemporary standards without compromising its architectural integrity. This required meticulous planning and coordination to integrate modern amenities within the constraints of a Grade I Listed structure.

G&T provided comprehensive Project Management services, overseeing the redevelopment from inception to completion. Collaborating closely with Stirling Prize-winning architects Witherford Watson Mann and gallery designers Nissen Richards Studio, we facilitated the transformation of the gallery spaces to create an inspiring setting for the 21st century. Key improvements included the introduction of step-free entrance access, new display cabinets, widened doors, and standardised floor levels between rooms. A new visitor welcome area was also created on the ground floor, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Additionally, teaching and research facilities were enhanced with new collection study spaces and a complete refurbishment of the Department of Conservation.

The refurbished Courtauld Gallery now offers a transformed home for its esteemed art collection, making the historic space more accessible than ever. Visitors can enjoy masterpieces across refurbished galleries alongside new spaces for temporary exhibitions. The project has been widely acclaimed, receiving the RIBA National Award 2023 and the RIBA London Award 2023, recognising its excellence in design and execution. Through G&T's effective Project Management, the gallery successfully navigated the complexities of modernising a historic building, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.