Last month’s much-awaited reopening of the Sainsbury Wing will house the National Gallery’s exciting new event spaces. PA Life joined industry leaders, partners and clients of the gallery at the exclusive opening event on 22 May to experience stunning transformation of the new space.
The Grade I listed Sainsbury Wing was officially reopened to the public on 10 May by King Charles III and Queen Camilla as part of the Galleryโs bicentenary celebrations. The ยฃ85m transformation is designed to create a more welcoming environment for visitors and has enhanced the venueโs event hire opportunities.
Sainsbury Wing creates the National Gallery’s exciting new event spaces
Work, which has taken place over two years and took a โre-use firstโ approach to materials for sustainability, included a reconfiguration of the ground floor entrance, creating flexible new spaces for out-of-hours events.
At the heart of the redevelopment is the venueโs 322-seat lecture theatre, now available to hire, benefitting from 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 also be included for receptions, networking, and catering, with the addition of daytime event spaces on the wingโs first floor available for business meetings and events.
A new mezzanine level, with a circular statement bar and restaurant by Giorgio and Plaxy Locatelli, is a focal point, providing a visually impactful space for pre-dinner gatherings overlooking Trafalgar Square. It also features a new versatile space, the Whitcomb room, ideal for team activities, private business lunches and full-day board meetings
In addition to upgrading the spaces, the Gallery has invested in the latest AV and technology advancements. New technologies, such as a vast digital welcome wall, can include bespoke client welcome messaging and branding during out-of-hours commercial events.
Catering has also been reimagined, with newly appointed partner Searcys delivering new spring/summer 2025 menus. Options include a range of breakfast and lunch options, from freshly-made sandwiches and plant-based salads.
Other developments include a new Supporters House within the former offices of the historic Wilkins Building, with dedicated spaces for the Gallery supporters and members. Out of hours, the space will also be available for venue hire from the autumn. With a separate entrance from Trafalgar Square, it also has its own bar, private dining room, lounge, and event space for up to 100 guests.
In addition, the Galleryโs new and transformed Roden Centre for Creative Learning can also be used for commercial events out of hours, with direct access to the North Galleries for unique settings for memorable events surrounded by masterpieces.
Clare Arouche, Head of Events & Hospitality at the National Gallery, said:ย โWith this transformation, we are redefining what it means to host events in an inspiring setting. From cutting-edge facilities to elegant, flexible spaces in a prime London location, we have created an environment where creativity, mindfulness and connection can thrive. Whether planning a business meeting, conference, dinner or gala, our new spaces combine heritage and innovation to deliver unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
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 at www.nationalgallery.org.uk/venue-hire
