A new tomorrow for The National Gallery

The National Gallery is adding a new wing to its central London estate.  We are honoured to announce this competition to find exceptional architects to take on the extraordinary responsibility that designing this new wing will entail. 

Situated on an island site between the existing gallery in Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square, the new wing will create different spaces for displaying both the permanent collection and showing temporary exhibitions.  These new spaces will link seamlessly into the existing galleries to become part of the cohesive experience that could only happen at the National Gallery. 

As Sir Gabriele Finaldi, Director of the Gallery says:

"The National Gallery is embarking on the most significant transformation in our 200-year history. 

"Having just celebrated our bicentenary, we are launching a landmark architectural competition for a brand-new wing and public realm. The Gallery plans to develop and expand its historic collection, making it the one place in the world that presents the history of Western painting in a comprehensive and dynamic way, from its origins to the most exciting work being created in our own time.  

"Architecturally striking and thoughtfully integrated, the new wing will symbolise the UK’s commitment to culture and heritage, standing as a landmark of both local and international significance. It will reimagine the public realm in which it sits, linking Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square and invigorating this corner of central London. Designed to blend aesthetic excellence with cutting-edge technology, this addition would not only cement the Gallery’s reputation as a leader in the art world but also become a defining feature of contemporary architecture in the UK and internationally, inspiring future architectural endeavours. 

"The impact of the new wing will extend beyond the immediate experience of the Gallery itself. It will serve as a beacon of cultural ambition, attracting art enthusiasts, scholars, and tourists while enhancing the Gallery’s existing relationships with national and global cultural institutions. By creating opportunities for unique programming, community engagement, national and international partnerships, this new chapter will redefine how art is experienced and celebrated. The new wing will position the National Gallery as not just a repository of art but a cultural landmark, enriching the nation’s artistic legacy on a global scale. 

"We look forward to hearing from those keen to join us on this once in a lifetime opportunity to create a landmark of local and international significance: architecturally ambitious, technologically innovative and environmentally sensitive."

— Sir Gabriele Finaldi, Director, The National Gallery

Complete competition brief