PA Life had the privilege to visit the National Gallery’s Bicentenary build project that’s nearing completion ahead of the big reveal planned for May 2025. The massive undertaking will create new visionary spaces for venue hire, and we can’t wait to see the final results. The National Gallery shares details of what to expect when we can all finally visit the new spaces…
- The main image here is a visualisation of the view from Trafalgar Square approaching the Sainsbury Wing, with new transparent glass, reconfigured gates, and new seating. By Selldorf Architects.
As the National Gallery celebrates its 200th year, the ยฃ85million capital build projects are underway, including new and exciting venue hire opportunities. A group of UK meeting and event industry press representatives, including PA Life, had a chance to join a ‘hard-hat’ tour of the event spaces that are undergoing a total rebuild at the moment. Even through the protective board and dust it was evident that the spaces will be amazing and something very special when the build project is completed.
The main gallery is open and undisturbed by the National Gallery bicentenary build project. We started our visit there under the guidance of one of the gallery’s art expert guides who demonstrated a great break-out, or teambuilding activity, that is very easy to fit into an event itinerary. We observed a number of chosen master pieces under her guidance which got everyone looking at the artwork in a new way, finding fascinating details that brought the paintings to life.
The National Gallery’s bicentenary build project highlights
Conceived to improve the welcome given to all visitors to the National Gallery, sensitive interventions to the Grade I listed Sainsbury Wing will reconfigure the ground floor entrance and create new spaces that will provide an experience for commercial events befitting a world-class institution. New technologies including a vast digital welcome wall can include bespoke client welcome messaging and branding during out of hours commercial events.
The new mezzanine level, with a circular, statement bar as a focus point, will provide a visually impactful space for pre-dinner gatherings overlooking Trafalgar Square.
Additionally, the 322-seater lecture theatre will reopen with a fully accessible main stage, and state-of-the-art AV facilities for presentations, conferences, film screenings, award ceremonies, product launches, and more. The lecture theatre foyer can be included for receptions, networking, and catering. New daytime event spaces will also reopen on the first floor for business meetings and events with upgraded AV facilities.
National Gallery’s Wilkins Building will become the new Supporters House
The ground floor of the historic Wilkins Building will be home to a new Supporters House, with dedicated spaces for the Gallery supporters and members. Out of hours, this space will also be available for venue hire. With a separate entrance from Trafalgar Square, it also has its own restaurant, bar, private dining room, lounge, and event space for up to 100 guests.
A new and transformed Centre for Creative Learning can also be used for commercial events out of hours, with direct access into the North Galleries for unique settings for memorable events surrounded by masterpieces.
These ambitious and forward-thinking investment projects allow for greater sustainability, to ensure the National Galleryโs long-lasting success over the next 200 years. Innovations, such as enhancing natural light and ventilation within the redevelopment, will facilitate a reduction in energy consumption. Construction plans have incorporated a โre-use firstโ approach to sourcing environmentally sustainable materials.
Speaking on the importance of the developments, Clare Arouche, Head of Events & Hospitality at the National Gallery said:ย โThis visionary investment will introduce a new chapter for commercial events that celebrates the best of both our Galleryโs history, and its exciting future. With digital enhancements, versatile spaces, and luxurious amenities, we are creating an environment that fosters creativity, innovation and collaboration for unforgettable experiences.
โThese projects underscore our commitment to excellence and position the Gallery as both the premier destination to see some of the greatest paintings in the world, but also for business meetings, conferences, dinners, galas and more, ensuring that every occasion is executed flawlessly and leaves a lasting impression.”
While work is carried out, the public Gallery spaces continue to be available for morning and evening commercial event hire.
Venue Hire at the National Gallery
With a storied legacy dating back to 1824, the National Galleryโs grand architecture blends Victorian splendour and modern minimalism as a backdrop for corporate and private events, set among 2,300 masterpieces adorning the walls. Overlooking Trafalgar Square, the 200-year-old venue hosts both grand and intimate occasions, from private dinners to lively drinks receptions. The National Galleryโs majestic dome ceilings, meticulously crafted interiors, and collection of some of the worldโs most famous paintings set the scene for indoor events, while its Portico Terrace offers one of Londonโs finest viewpoints for alfresco parties.
More information about venue hire.
About The National Galleryโ
The National Gallery is one of the greatest art galleries in the world. Founded by Parliament in 1824, the Gallery houses the nationโs collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the late 13th to the early 20th century. The collection includes works by Artemisia Gentileschi, Bellini, Cezanne, Degas, Leonardo, Monet, Raphael, Rembrandt, Renoir, Rubens, Titian, Turner, Van Dyck, Van Gogh and Velรกzquez. The Galleryโs key objectives are to care for and enhance the collection and provide the best possible access to visitors. Admission free.โ
More information visit National Gallery.
