National Portrait Gallery heritage refurbishment

Purcell is delighted to announce its appointment as heritage specialist, alongside Jamie Fobert Architects, to a £35.5 million refurbishment of the National Portrait Gallery.

Following an international selection process, the National Portrait Gallery has appointed the team of Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell to lead its £35.5m building project, ‘Inspiring People: Transforming our National Portrait Gallery’.

The National Portrait Gallery in London is home to the most extensive collection of portraits in the world. Its aim is to promote the understanding of influential people who have made, and are making, an impact on British history and culture. It also seeks to elevate the appreciation of the diverse forms of portraiture.

With aims for completion in 2022, the gallery has grand plans for its renovation. The project will enhance the gallery's entrance, extend the public gallery space by around 20 per cent and create an improved Learning Centre.

The Heritage Lottery Fund allocated £9.4 million to the scheme last year, contributing towards the 60 per cent of funding already raised. The gallery hopes to reach the target by March 2019.

Purcell Partner Liz Smith said, “The National Portrait Gallery is a significant cultural institution, connecting the public with its history through portraiture. The building is of national importance and we will ensure that the renovation is sensitive to the original fabric and style of the late 19 century architecture. Purcell is proud to be a part of this important chapter in the gallery’s history, and to embark on this exciting collaboration with Jamie Fobert ArchitectsPurcell is proud to be a part of this important chapter in the gallery’s history, and to embark on this exciting collaboration with Jamie Fobert Architects.”