The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) in London, originally constructed in 1896, is set to reopen its doors on June 22, 2023, following a comprehensive transformation. Led by Jamie Fobert

Architects and heritage architects Purcell, the project encompasses a complete refurbishment and reimagining of the historic building, known as the world's first portrait gallery. The architectural endeavor includes various interventions such as the addition of a new public forecourt, an inviting entry hall, and a dynamic learning center. Previously concealed areas have been opened up, and a new accessible entrance has been established, reorienting the gallery towards the city and forging a connection with the vibrant atmosphere of London.

In conjunction with the architectural overhaul, the National Portrait Gallery has undertaken an extensive re-display and reinterpretation of its vast collection of portraits. The objective is to place people at the forefront and present a more comprehensive narrative of UK history and culture. As part of this initiative, the gallery's three new entrance doors are adorned with 45 bronze-cast portraits hand-drawn by Tracey Emin, collectively representing all women.

Preserving the Victorian architecture of the National Portrait Gallery has been a key focus of the project. The Grade I-Listed building, designed by ecclesiastical architect Ewan Christian, features ornate elements such as large round-headed arches, Corinthian pilasters, delicate columns, intricate cornices, and roundels, contributing to its visual appeal. The aim of Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell was to enhance the gallery's identity, profile, and physical presence, ensuring accessibility and creating a welcoming environment for a diverse audience. They sought to revive previously closed and underappreciated areas, particularly the East Wing, while establishing a modern Learning Centre to enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, a comprehensive re-display of the collection, spanning from the Tudor era to the present, was undertaken. Sustainability and generating income to secure the gallery's future were also prioritized.

Over the past five years, Jamie Fobert Architects, with their expertise in gallery and public building design, has led the project's design team through all stages of development. Collaborating as the heritage architect, Purcell, under the leadership of Liz Smith, has played an integral role, working alongside Jamie Fobert Architects from the design competition to project delivery. This collaborative effort harmoniously merges the past, present, and future, identifying opportunities for transformative change that enrich the visitor experience. The design process has allowed Ewan Christian's architectural voice to resonate in the new light-filled foyer and galleries.

Jamie Fobert, Director of Jamie Fobert Architects, shares, "The project was primarily driven by the desire for the Gallery to turn to face the city, to open up to the public in a way the original building did not, to bring back to life the gallery spaces, and to focus attention on the handsome Victorian architecture which had been obscured. It has been an extremely collaborative project on every level. We have worked closely with heritage architects, Purcell, on all aspects of the building fabric, along with a design team of the highest quality. In all that we have done, we have been guided by the National Portrait Gallery's director, Nicholas Cullinan, whose vision has been clear and consistent throughout. No longer awkward or overlooked, the National Portrait Gallery can now stand confidently facing the city: the great historic building Londoners never knew they had." Photo by Wei-Te Wong from Taipei City, Taiwan, Republic of China, Wikimedia commons.