Restorative Makeover Planned for Wallace Collection in Celebration of Its 125th Anniversary
Refresh and Renovate: A New Lease of Life for The Wallace Collection
Celebrating its 125th anniversary, London's iconic museum, The Wallace Collection, is shaking things up with a substantial makeover. Dubbed as the 'facelift', this ambitious project aims to make the museum more accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable, all while preserving its unique charm.
The revitalization project, at the helm of Selldorf Architects—renowned for their work on The National Gallery's Sainsbury Wing and The Frick Collection in New York— promises to improve visitor circulation, the overall experience, and gallery spaces. The project also plans to build a state-of-the-art learning center. As the museum's director, Xavier Bray, elucidates, "Our goal is to make every visitor— whether it's their first or fiftieth time— feel a sense of warmth and connection from the moment they walk in."
The transformation provides an opportunity to shed light on often-overlooked spaces and masterpieces, thanks to improved lighting and reduced display density. As Bray emphasizes, "We aim to create a space that feels refreshed, easily navigable, and teeming with possibilities, all while maintaining the cozy ambiance of Hertford House."
The design phase is well underway, with funding and approvals set to follow in due course. Although it's not confirmed if the museum will close at any point during the renovation, patrons are assured that a carefully planned sequence will minimize disruption, ensuring the collection remains accessible to all.
Selldorf Architects and The Wallace Collection
With Selldorf Architects leading the charge, The Wallace Collection prepares for change. The New York-based firm, directed by Annabelle Selldorf, has been tapped to reimagine Hertford House, marking a significant turning point for the museum. The renovation plan is designed to cater to modern audiences while maintaining the heritage of the historic building.
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Carla Passino
Passionate about heritage and the arts, Carla Passino has been our platform's Arts & Antiques editor since 2023. With a knack for discussing conservation, history, and property stories, she won numerous accolades as a freelance journalist. Immersed in the times before the 20th century, she seems to find more solace in the English weather than her native Italy's sunshine.
The renovation of The Wallace Collection, led by Selldorf Architects, intends to transform not just the museum but also the visitor's lifestyle, as they aim to create a more accessible, sustainable, and engaging home-and-garden experience. This home-improvement project will also include the construction of a learning center, offering opportunities for continued growth and understanding in the home-and-garden, home-improvement, and lifestyle realms.
