Royal Academy of Arts

London

Architect: David Chipperfield Architects

Client: Royal Academy of Arts

Contractor: John Sisk & Son

Submitted by John Sisk & Son

The expansion of the Royal Academy of Arts into the former Museum of Mankind building to its rear marks the culmination of the heroic redevelopment of one of the world’s most renowned private art institutions. Sir James Pennethorne’s highly ornamental Victorian annexe block has been beautifully and sensitively refurbished to provide new gallery, entrance and exhibition spaces, as well as a magnificent agora-inspired lecture hall beside the sumptuously restored Senate Room bar. Additionally, a dynamic link has been forged between this building and the original Royal Academy block, burrowing through the Royal Academy School to create a dramatic sequence of staircase “bridges” and exposed subterranean spaces that both unify and rejuvenate the entire campus.

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