As The National
Gallery celebrates its 200th year, the £85million capital build projects
are underway, including new and exciting venue hire opportunities, due for
completion by May 2025.
The investment is set
to enhance and modernise commercial event experiences at the Gallery. 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.
New spaces
New technologies including a 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.
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.
Sustainable build
Construction plans have incorporated a ‘re-use first’
approach to sourcing environmentally sustainable materials. Speaking on the
importance of the developments, Clare Arouche, head of events & hospitality
at the National Gallery said: “This visionary investment will introduce a new
chapter for commercial events that celebrates the best of both our Gallery’s
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.
