Pallant House Gallery
Pallant House Gallery
Pallant House Gallery in Chichester houses an exceptional collection of twentieth century art in one of the country’s finest eighteenth century houses. When the architect of the British Library, Colin St John Wilson, left the Gallery his own collection of postwar art, he was commissioned to design a deeply-thoughtful extension in which to display these works and improve other facilities.
Twenty years on, as the collections and visitor numbers continue to grow, the Gallery is embarking on a further expansion and reordering, working with award-winning Wright & Wright Architects. The project encompasses the creation of a new Collections Centre and enhanced visitor facilities, expanded space for exhibitions, improved staff and volunteer accommodation and greater opportunities for income generation. Upgrade of existing facilities in the Grade I listed house and St John Wilson’s New Wing are integral.
We were appointed to prepare a Conservation Plan and provide heritage design and development advice as the project moves through the planning process. Working with the historian Dan Cruickshank, our analysis has illuminated new understanding about how the 1712 house was organised and functioned, and set outs principles by which the New Wing can be refreshed without harming its architectural integrity.
The main capital works are due on site in 2023 and completion is expected in 2026.
“With such significant existing historic and modern architecture at the heart of a beautiful conservation area, we felt that the Wright & Wright-led team were the best practice to develop bold plans that will be sensitive and thoughtful, enabling us to better serve the needs of our diverse audiences and community, and to better care for and present our internationally-significant collection.” - Simon Martin, Director of Pallant House Gallery
Client: Pallant House Gallery
Architects: Wright & Wright architects